1
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Farrelly KN, Keough MT, Wardell JD. Indirect Associations Between PTSD Symptoms and Cannabis Problems in Young Adults: The Unique Roles of Cannabis Coping Motives and Medicinal Use Orientation. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:1431-1439. [PMID: 38750663 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2024.2352621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Background: Cannabis use in young adulthood has been associated with exposure to traumatic events and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Coping motives for cannabis use represent one mechanism linking PTSD with cannabis problems, yet some individuals with PTSD consider their cannabis use to be medicinal in nature. While a medicinal orientation to cannabis overlaps conceptually with coping motives, it could be associated with unique cannabis outcomes. Objectives: This study examined trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation as mediators of the association between PTSD symptoms and cannabis outcomes in young adults. Method: Data came from an online survey of 212 university students (M age = 19.41; 70.3% Women; 43.4% White) who used cannabis in the past month and endorsed a traumatic life event. Path analyses examined associations of PTSD symptoms with past month cannabis frequency and problems through medicinal cannabis orientation (i.e., number of mental health symptoms that cannabis is used to manage) and trauma-related coping motives. Results: PTSD symptoms were associated with trauma-related coping motives but not with medicinal cannabis orientation. Both trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation were uniquely associated with greater cannabis use frequency, but only trauma-related coping motives were associated with greater cannabis problems. There were significant indirect relationships from PTSD symptoms to cannabis use frequency and problems through trauma-related coping motives but not through medicinal cannabis orientation. Conclusions: Results support unique contributions of trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation to cannabis outcomes and suggest that trauma-related coping motives are specifically implicated in the link between PTSD and cannabis problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra N Farrelly
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew T Keough
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeffrey D Wardell
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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2
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Das A, Hendershot CS, Husain MI, Knyahnytska Y, Elsaid S, Le Foll B, Kloiber S. Perceptions, Experiences, and Patterns of Cannabis Use in Individuals with Mood and Anxiety Disorders in the Context of Cannabis Legalization and Medical Cannabis Program in Canada - A Qualitative Study. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2024; 57:141-151. [PMID: 38467156 DOI: 10.1055/a-2264-1047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Perceptions of cannabis as a potential medical treatment for mood and anxiety disorders have been increasing in the context of legalizations, availability, and medical cannabis programs, though current evidence predominately indicates risks and negative effects of cannabis use (CU) on mental health outcomes. This study aims to understand motivations, perceptions, effects, and patterns of CU in individuals with mood and anxiety disorders. METHODS Thirty-six adult patients diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder who were currently using cannabis completed an in-depth qualitative interview on individual motivations, perceptions, experiences, effects, and patterns of their CU. The thematic analysis focused on phases of CU and sources of cannabis products and information. RESULTS Reported motivations for initiation of CU included curiosity, peer pressure, and dissatisfaction with conventional treatments. Factors such as psychotropic effects and coping with mental health symptoms and insomnia contributed to the continuation of CU. More negative effects, including cognitive dysfunction, worsening of mood, and anxiety symptoms, were acknowledged with ongoing CU. Concerning findings included common initiation of CU before age 18, combined medical and recreational CU, rare consultation of medical professionals on CU, and potential effects and harms. DISCUSSION Findings indicate individual complexity of motivations, perceptions, and patterns of CU in the study population. The reported potential beneficial effects of specific cannabis products should be further investigated. Findings emphasize patient-provider dialogue on both CU and conventional treatments. Information from this study can contribute to and inform the development of education, prevention, and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Das
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Christian S Hendershot
- Department of Psychiatry and Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - M Ishrat Husain
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yuliya Knyahnytska
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sonja Elsaid
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, Canada
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
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3
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Burback L, Brémault-Phillips S, Nijdam MJ, McFarlane A, Vermetten E. Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A State-of-the-art Review. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:557-635. [PMID: 37132142 PMCID: PMC10845104 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230428091433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This narrative state-of-the-art review paper describes the progress in the understanding and treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Over the last four decades, the scientific landscape has matured, with many interdisciplinary contributions to understanding its diagnosis, etiology, and epidemiology. Advances in genetics, neurobiology, stress pathophysiology, and brain imaging have made it apparent that chronic PTSD is a systemic disorder with high allostatic load. The current state of PTSD treatment includes a wide variety of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches, of which many are evidence-based. However, the myriad challenges inherent in the disorder, such as individual and systemic barriers to good treatment outcome, comorbidity, emotional dysregulation, suicidality, dissociation, substance use, and trauma-related guilt and shame, often render treatment response suboptimal. These challenges are discussed as drivers for emerging novel treatment approaches, including early interventions in the Golden Hours, pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions, medication augmentation interventions, the use of psychedelics, as well as interventions targeting the brain and nervous system. All of this aims to improve symptom relief and clinical outcomes. Finally, a phase orientation to treatment is recognized as a tool to strategize treatment of the disorder, and position interventions in step with the progression of the pathophysiology. Revisions to guidelines and systems of care will be needed to incorporate innovative treatments as evidence emerges and they become mainstream. This generation is well-positioned to address the devastating and often chronic disabling impact of traumatic stress events through holistic, cutting-edge clinical efforts and interdisciplinary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Burback
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Mirjam J. Nijdam
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Center, Diemen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Eric Vermetten
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA
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4
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Bobitt J, Clary K, Krawitz M, Silva LQ, Kang H. Prevention, Practice, and Policy: Older US Veterans' Perspectives on Cannabis Use. Drugs Aging 2023; 40:59-70. [PMID: 36648751 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-022-00995-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Veterans often struggle with disabling physical and mental health conditions that tend to worsen as they age. Current medications used to treat these conditions include opioids and benzodiazepines though they can have negative side effects. Looking for alternatives to these medications, many older Veterans use cannabis for medical purposes. We aimed to develop a deeper understanding of older Veterans' cannabis use. METHODS We used maximum variation sampling to select 32 Veterans who had completed baseline and follow-up surveys to participate in semi-structured interviews. RESULTS After applying a thematic analysis, results show older Veterans are using medical cannabis as a means of harm reduction as an adjunct or substitute for other medications and substances with limited guidance from their healthcare providers. Veterans also reported that there exists an inconsistency across the Veterans Health Administration system regarding the interpretation and application of cannabis policies. CONCLUSIONS Drawing from these findings, we explore medical cannabis as a harm reduction technique and discuss how a lack of physician engagement and current Veterans Health Administration policies discourage older Veterans from discussing and potentially benefiting from the use of medical cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bobitt
- Department of Medicine, Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, 818 S. Wolcott Ave, SRH-629, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Kelly Clary
- School of Social Work, Texas State, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | | | - Laura Quintero Silva
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Hyojung Kang
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana, Champaign, IL, USA
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5
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Sorkhou M, Johnstone S, Kivlichan AE, Castle DJ, George TP. Does cannabis use predict aggressive or violent behavior in psychiatric populations? A systematic review. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2022; 48:631-643. [PMID: 36137273 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2022.2118060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Background: Despite an increase in information evaluating the therapeutic and adverse effects of cannabinoids, many potentially important clinical correlates, including violence or aggression, have not been adequately investigated.Objectives: In this systematic review, we examine the published evidence for the relationship between cannabis and aggression or violence in individuals with psychiatric disorders.Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, articles in English were searched on PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO from database inception to January 2022. Data for aggression and violence in people with psychiatric diagnoses were identified during the searches.Results: Of 391 papers identified within the initial search, 15 studies met inclusion criteria. Cross-sectional associations between cannabis use and aggression or violence in samples with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were found. Moreover, a longitudinal association between cannabis use and violence and aggression was observed in psychotic-spectrum disorders. However, the presence of uncontrolled confounding factors in the majority of included studies precludes any causal conclusions.Conclusion: Although cannabis use is associated with aggression or violence in individuals with PTSD or psychotic-spectrum disorders, causal conclusions cannot be drawn due to methodological limitations observed in the current literature. Well-controlled, longitudinal studies are needed to ascertain whether cannabis plays a causal role on subsequent violence or aggression in mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Sorkhou
- Centre for Complex Interventions, Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS) and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Samantha Johnstone
- Centre for Complex Interventions, Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - David J Castle
- Centre for Complex Interventions, Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS) and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tony P George
- Centre for Complex Interventions, Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS) and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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6
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Steardo L, Carbone EA, Menculini G, Moretti P, Steardo L, Tortorella A. Endocannabinoid System as Therapeutic Target of PTSD: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11030214. [PMID: 33803374 PMCID: PMC8000573 DOI: 10.3390/life11030214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex disorder involving dysregulation of stress-related hormones and neurotransmitter systems. Research focused on the endocannabinoid system (eCBS) for anxiety and stress regulation, cognitive and emotional responses modulation and aversive memories extinction, leading to the hypothesis that it could represent a possible alternative treatment target for PTSD. In this systematic review, we summarize evidence about the efficacy and safety of medicinal cannabidiol (CBD), Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), and nabilone in PTSD treatment. The PRISMA statement guidelines were followed. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science by two independent researchers, who also performed data extraction and quality assessment. Among the initial 495 papers, 234 were screened for eligibility and 10 were included. Studies suggested that different medicinal cannabinoids at distinct doses and formulations could represent promising treatment strategies for the improvement of overall PTSD symptomatology as well as specific symptom domains (e.g., sleep disorders, arousal disturbances, suicidal thoughts), also influencing quality of life, pain and social impact. Although there is a robust rationale for treatment with drugs that target the eCBS and the results are promising, further studies are needed to investigate the safety and efficacy profile of their prolonged use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Steardo
- Psychiatric Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Tommaso Campanella, 115, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Elvira Anna Carbone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Tommaso Campanella, 115, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giulia Menculini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
| | - Patrizia Moretti
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
| | - Luca Steardo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Psychiatry, Giustino Fortunato University, 12, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Alfonso Tortorella
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (P.M.); (A.T.)
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7
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Rogers AH, Shepherd JM, Garey L, Zvolensky MJ. Psychological factors associated with substance use initiation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychiatry Res 2020; 293:113407. [PMID: 32827993 PMCID: PMC7434361 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The 2019 outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has had a devastating impact. Given the on-going nature of the outbreak, the deleterious toll on mental health, including substance use, is unknown. Negative reinforcement models of substance use posit that elevations in stress from the COVID-19 pandemic will elicit a corresponding motivation to downregulate COVID-19-related stress reactivity via substance use for a subset of the population. The current study sought to evaluate: (1) if COVID-19-related worry and fear were associated with substance use coping motives; and (2) how levels of COVID-19-related worry and fear differ between pre-COVID-19 substance users, COVID-19 substance initiators, and abstainers. Participants were 160 adults recruited nationally between April-May 2020 for an online study. Results indicated that COVID-19-related worry was associated with substance use coping motives. Additionally, compared to abstainers, pre-COVID-19 substance users and COVID-19 substance initiators demonstrated the highest levels of worry and fear. Examination of differences suggested that the COVID-19 substance initiators had the highest COVID-19-related worry and fear for all substances except for opioids, with effect size estimates ranging from small to medium. The results of this study suggest that COVID-19-specific psychological factors appear to be involved in substance use behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lorra Garey
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, USA
| | - Michael J Zvolensky
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, USA; Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA; HEALTH Institute, University of Houston, USA.
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8
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Dagan Y, Yager J. Cannabis and Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Narrative Review With Considerations of Benefits and Harms. J Nerv Ment Dis 2020; 208:619-627. [PMID: 32433200 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite substantial controversies concerning patients' reports of benefits from cannabis for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and inconsistent research findings regarding its efficacy and adverse risks, some states have already recognized PTSD as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis. Consequently, medical cannabis can also be provided for patients with complex PTSD who experience additional posttraumatic symptoms of affective dysregulation, negative perception of the self, and difficulties in relationships due to a history of repetitive trauma. In this article, we explore cannabis use in relation to benefits versus harms that might occur relative to specific complex PTSD symptoms and comorbidities. Whereas some symptoms related to PTSD per se (e.g., anxiety, insomnia, nightmares) may be benefited, others that are more characteristic of complex PTSD (e.g., dissociation, reckless behavior, and substance abuse associated with dysregulated affect) may be aggravated. Therefore, clinicians treating patients with complex PTSD who use or seek cannabis should carefully assess patients' motivations and the impacts of particular use patterns on specific symptoms. Clinicians and patients should be aware of and fully discuss the significant number of potential adverse effects of cannabis use, several of which might impede patients' participation in beneficial psychotherapeutic, social, and medical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Dagan
- Jerusalem Mental Health Center, Kfar Shaul Psychiatric Hospital affiliated with The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Joel Yager
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
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9
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Hindocha C, Cousijn J, Rall M, Bloomfield MAP. The Effectiveness of Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Systematic Review. J Dual Diagn 2020; 16:120-139. [PMID: 31479625 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2019.1652380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a potentially debilitating mental health problem. There has been a recent surge of interest regarding the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of PTSD. We therefore sought to systematically review and assess the quality of the clinical evidence of the effectiveness of cannabinoids for the treatment of PTSD. Method: We included all studies published until December 2018 where a patient has had PTSD diagnosed and had been prescribed or were using a cannabinoid for the purpose of reducing PTSD symptoms. Our primary outcome measure was the reduction in PTSD symptoms using a validated instrument. In the absence of randomized controlled trials, we included the next best available levels of evidence including observational and retrospective studies and case reports. We assessed risk of bias and quality using validated tools appropriate for the study design. Results: We included 10 studies in this review, of which only one study was a pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical trial. Every identified study had medium to high risk of bias and was of low quality. We found that cannabinoids may decrease PTSD symptomology, in particular sleep disturbances and nightmares. Conclusions: Most studies to date are small and of low quality, with significant limitations to the study designs precluding any clinical recommendations about its use in routine clinical practice. Evidence that cannabinoids may help reduce global PTSD symptoms, sleep disturbances, and nightmares indicates that future well-controlled, randomized, double-blind clinical trials are highly warranted.PROSPERO registration number: 121646.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hindocha
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, University College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - J Cousijn
- Neuroscience of Addiction (NofA) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Rall
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - M A P Bloomfield
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, University College Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,The Traumatic Stress Clinic, St Pancras Hospital, Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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10
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Adkisson K, Cunningham KC, Dedert EA, Dennis MF, Calhoun PS, Elbogen EB, Beckham JC, Kimbrel NA. Cannabis Use Disorder and Post-Deployment Suicide Attempts in Iraq/Afghanistan-Era Veterans. Arch Suicide Res 2019; 23:678-687. [PMID: 29952737 PMCID: PMC6525085 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2018.1488638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to use retrospective data to test the hypothesis that cannabis dependence would be associated with an increased rate of post-deployment suicide attempts. Participants included 319 veterans who had deployed to either Iraq or Afghanistan. Study procedures involved completion of a structured clinical interview and a battery of self-report questionnaires. As expected, lifetime cannabis dependence was significantly associated with post-deployment suicide attempts, AOR = 7.963, p = .014, even after controlling for the effects of pre-deployment suicide attempts, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, pain, non-cannabis substance use disorder, and gender. Although preliminary, our findings provide the first evidence to date that heavy cannabis use may be a unique risk factor for post-deployment suicide attempts among veterans.
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11
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Use of Medicinal Cannabis and Synthetic Cannabinoids in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Systematic Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55090525. [PMID: 31450833 PMCID: PMC6780141 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55090525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychiatric disorder resulting from a traumatic event, is manifested through hyperarousal, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and sleep disturbances. Despite several therapeutic approaches being available, both pharmacological and psychological, recently a growing interest has developed in using cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids stems from their consideration as more efficient and better tolerated alternatives for the treatment of this condition. The present paper aims to evaluate the clinical and therapeutic potentials of medical cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids in treating PTSD patients. Methods: A systematic electronic search was performed, including all papers published up to May 2019, using the following keywords (((cannabis[Title/Abstract]) OR (synthetic cannabinoids [Title/Abstract])) AND ((PTSD[Title/Abstract]) OR (Posttraumatic stress disorder[Title/Abstract]))) for the topics ‘Cannabis’, ‘Synthetic Cannabinoids’, ‘PTSD’, and MESH terms, on the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science online databases. For data gathering purposes, PRISMA guidelines were followed. Results were organized into two groups, considering cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids as different therapeutic approaches for PTSD. Results: Present data show that cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids, both acting on the endocannabinoids system, may have a potential therapeutic use for improving PTSD symptoms, e.g., reducing anxiety, modulating memory-related processes, and improving sleep. Conclusions: Even though the current literature suggests that cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids may have a role in the treatment of PTSD, there is currently limited evidence regarding their safety and efficacy. Therefore, additional research is needed in order to better understand the effectiveness and therapeutic usage of these drug classes and monitor their safety.
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12
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Elliott L, Bennett AS, Szott K, Golub A. Competing Constructivisms: The Negotiation of PTSD and Related Stigma Among Post-9/11 Veterans in New York City. Cult Med Psychiatry 2018; 42:778-799. [PMID: 29796782 PMCID: PMC6251768 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-018-9586-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stands as a form of psychopathology that straddles moral and psychiatric domains. Grounded in discrete instances of trauma, PTSD represents an etiological outlier in an era of increased attention to the genetics of mental illness and a prime location for social constructivist analyses of mental illness. This examination of PTSD narratives-as voiced in qualitative interviews and focus groups with 50 veterans of the recent Iraq and Afghanistan wars living in New York City-attends to the processes through which veterans conceive and navigate PTSD symptoms and diagnoses. In so doing we highlight the social constructivist positions undertaken by veterans themselves as they varyingly challenge and internalize symptomology in dialogue with psychiatric definitions and the stigma associated with PTSD. Findings demonstrate the rejection of classic psychopathological etiology-in brain disease, for example-by many veterans as well as the complex balancing of benefit and stigma that veterans undertake when making decisions about presenting to psychiatric clinicians. Drawing on veterans' accounts, we argue for greater cultural specificity in characterizing the diagnosis-seeking behavior of trauma survivors and a greater appreciation for the contradictions and compromise related to both acceptance and rejection of a mental health diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kelly Szott
- National Development and Research Institutes
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13
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Stetten N, Pomeranz J, Moorhouse M, Yurasek A, Blue AV. The level of evidence of medical marijuana use for treating disabilities: a scoping review. Disabil Rehabil 2018; 42:1190-1201. [PMID: 30456993 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1523952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Twenty-nine states have bypassed federal regulations by legalizing marijuana (MJ) either medicinally, recreationally or both. The FDA states that there is no empirical evidence that MJ is effective to treat these disorders. With over a billion individuals living with a disability across the globe, it is crucial to fully research the efficaciousness and safety of medical MJ to treat this population. The purpose to present the results of a scoping review of studies focused on the levels of evidence currently available on medical MJ's efficacy in treatment across a large range of disabilities.Methods: Databases were searched for research articles on the current level of evidence to support medical MJ use among people with disabilities.Results: Forty-one peer reviewed articles met the inclusion criteria. Articles focused on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, schizophrenia, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis/movement disorders, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, with some that focused on multiple disabilities.Conclusions: The level of evidence for the use of medical MJ among people with disabilities varies greatly, and has a clear lack of methodologically sound studies. Overall, medical MJ does not improve the level of functioning, but it may improve the overall quality of life for people with disabilities.Implications for RehabilitationEpilepsy can be a disabling chronic disorder which not only impacts physically but can restricts quality of life.Quality of life is diminished even more with treatment resistant epilepsy.Chronic pain is the leading cause of disability and is the most common cause of long-term disability.There is sufficient evidence that medical marijuana is effective in treating epileptic seizures and chronic pain.Medical marijuana may improve the level of functioning and quality of life for individuals with certain disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichole Stetten
- College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jamie Pomeranz
- College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael Moorhouse
- College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ali Yurasek
- College of Health & Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Amy V Blue
- College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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14
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Pedersen ER, Villarosa-Hurlocker MC, Prince MA. Use of Protective Behavioral Strategies among Young Adult Veteran Marijuana Users. CANNABIS (RESEARCH SOCIETY ON MARIJUANA) 2018; 1:14-27. [PMID: 29757318 PMCID: PMC5947861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Young adult veterans are at risk for problematic marijuana use and associated consequences, which is partially due to their high rates of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and problematic substance use. Veterans tend to endorse more severe and chronic mental health symptoms compared to their civilian counterparts and they identify marijuana use as a method to cope with their symptoms. Given the prevalence of marijuana use among veterans in the community and in clinical settings, it is important to explore the factors that may help minimize harm associated with use for those that choose to use the drug. The present study sought to examine the impact of protective behavioral strategies on the relationship between mental health symptoms and marijuana use and consequences in a sample of 180 young adult veteran marijuana users. Participants were recruited via social media advertisements and completed measures of marijuana use and consequences, protective behavioral strategies, and PTSD and depression symptoms. Findings indicated that more frequent use of protective behavioral strategies was associated with less marijuana use and consequences. Participants who screened positive for PTSD or depression reported more marijuana consequences than did those not positive on these screeners. Regression analyses revealed protective strategies moderated the relationship between PTSD and marijuana consequences such that young veterans who endorsed more PTSD symptoms and infrequent use of protective strategies reported the most marijuana consequences. No moderating effects were found for the relationship between depression and marijuana consequences. Findings have clinical implications for working with young veterans.
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15
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Kopacz MS, Ames D, Koenig HG. Association Between Trust and Mental, Social, and Physical Health Outcomes in Veterans and Active Duty Service Members With Combat-Related PTSD Symptomatology. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:408. [PMID: 30233429 PMCID: PMC6131606 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Trust represents a complex emotion and interpersonal concept which assumes abandoning control over a given situation or set of circumstances, in turn yielding such control to another party. Advances in our knowledge of post-traumatic stress disorder and moral injury have underscored the need to more closely examine how trust stands to impact health outcomes in these disorders. The aim of the present study is to examine and identify relationships linking general trust with select health outcomes in a mixed sample of Veterans and Service members with a self-reported history of deployment to a combat theater and PTSD symptomatology. Methods: This study applied a cross-sectional methodology, surveying n = 427 participants recruited across six sites. This included 373 Veterans and 54 active duty Service members in the United States. Measures included demographic characteristics, combat exposure, general trust, post-traumatic stress disorder symptomatology, depressive/anxiety symptomatology, alcohol use, social involvement, religiosity, and physical health. Data were analyzed descriptively as well as using Pearson correlations, Student's t-test, and multivariate regression. Results: Several significant relationships were identified, indicating an inverse relationship between trust and PTSD, depressive, and anxiety symptomatology. Greater levels of trust were also significantly associated with increased social interaction and religiosity. Lastly, no significant associations were identified with either physical functioning or pain level. Conclusion: The findings suggest that trust is correlated with a variety of health outcomes in Veterans and Service members affected by combat-related PTSD. Additional, hypothesis-driven research, informed by longitudinal data, is needed to better understand how trust stands to impact health outcomes, including the development of strategies and intervention options for repairing trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek S Kopacz
- VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Canandaigua, NY, United States.,Mental Health and Chaplaincy, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Donna Ames
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Harold G Koenig
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States.,Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
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16
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Loflin M, Earleywine M, Bonn-Miller M. Medicinal versus recreational cannabis use: Patterns of cannabis use, alcohol use, and cued-arousal among veterans who screen positive for PTSD. Addict Behav 2017; 68:18-23. [PMID: 28088054 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present study is the first to test whether veterans who use cannabis specifically for the purposes of self-medication for their reported PTSD symptoms differ from veterans who use cannabis medicinally for other reasons, or recreationally, in terms of patterns of cannabis use, use of alcohol, and reactivity to written combat trauma reminders. METHODS Assessment measures were administered online to a sample of veterans with a history of cannabis use (n=1971). Cued arousal was assessed pre/post via a prompt about combat experiences. Hypotheses were tested using a series of Bonferroni corrected one-way analyses of variance, t-tests, bivariate and partial correlations, and a Chi-square test. RESULTS Compared to recreational users, veterans who identify as medicinal cannabis users reported greater combat exposure (d=0.56), PTSD symptoms (d=1.02), subjective arousal when cued (d=0.25), and cannabis use (dfrequency=0.40; ddensity=0.42), but less alcohol use (d=0.28). Few differences were observed between medicinal users who reported using for PTSD versus those who reported using for other reasons. CONCLUSIONS Compared to those who use cannabis recreationally, veterans who report that they use cannabis medicinally use more cannabis and endorse significantly more symptoms of arousal following a prompt about combat trauma experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory Loflin
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, United States; National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, United States.
| | - Mitch Earleywine
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, United States
| | - Marcel Bonn-Miller
- Center of Excellence in Substance Abuse Treatment and Education, Philadelphia VAMC, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, United States
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17
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Ruglass LM, Shevorykin A, Radoncic V, Smith KMZ, Smith PH, Galatzer-Levy IR, Papini S, Hien DA. Impact of Cannabis Use on Treatment Outcomes among Adults Receiving Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment for PTSD and Substance Use Disorders. J Clin Med 2017; 6:E14. [PMID: 28178207 PMCID: PMC5332918 DOI: 10.3390/jcm6020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has demonstrated a strong link between trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder PTSD and substance use disorders (SUDs) in general and cannabis use disorders in particular. Yet, few studies have examined the impact of cannabis use on treatment outcomes for individuals with co-occurring PTSD and SUDs. METHODS Participants were 136 individuals who received cognitive-behavioral therapies for co-occurring PTSD and SUD. Multivariate regressions were utilized to examine the associations between baseline cannabis use and end-of-treatment outcomes. Multilevel linear growth models were fit to the data to examine the cross-lagged associations between weekly cannabis use and weekly PTSD symptom severity and primary substance use during treatment. RESULTS There were no significant positive nor negative associations between baseline cannabis use and end-of-treatment PTSD symptom severity and days of primary substance use. Cross-lagged models revealed that as cannabis use increased, subsequent primary substance use decreased and vice versa. Moreover, results revealed a crossover lagged effect, whereby higher cannabis use was associated with greater PTSD symptom severity early in treatment, but lower weekly PTSD symptom severity later in treatment. CONCLUSION Cannabis use was not associated with adverse outcomes in end-of-treatment PTSD and primary substance use, suggesting independent pathways of change. The theoretical and clinical implications of the reciprocal associations between weekly cannabis use and subsequent PTSD and primary substance use symptoms during treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesia M Ruglass
- Department of Psychology, The City College of New York, CUNY, 160 Convent Avenue, NAC Building, Rm 7/120, New York, NY 10031, USA.
| | - Alina Shevorykin
- Department of Psychology, Pace University, 861 Bedford Road, Pleasantville, NY 10570, USA.
| | - Vanja Radoncic
- Gordon F. Derner Institute for Advanced Psychological Studies, Adelphi University, IAPS, Hy Weinberg Center, Room 306, Garden City, NY 11530-0701, USA.
| | - Kathryn M Z Smith
- Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center/New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, Box 66, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Philip H Smith
- Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, The City College of New York, 160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031, USA.
| | - Isaac R Galatzer-Levy
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU School of Medicine, 1 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Santiago Papini
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Mental Health Research, University of Texas, Austin, 108 E. Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
| | - Denise A Hien
- Gordon F. Derner Institute for Advanced Psychological Studies, Adelphi University & Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Hy Weinberg Center, Room 306, Garden City, NY 11530-0701, USA.
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18
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Manhapra A, Stefanovics E, Rosenheck R. Treatment outcomes for veterans with PTSD and substance use: Impact of specific substances and achievement of abstinence. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 156:70-77. [PMID: 26429726 PMCID: PMC4633308 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Revised: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scant longitudinal data exists about the interplay between specific substances of abuse, the achievement of abstinence, and clinical outcomes in the treatment of dually diagnosed Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS As part of a national program evaluation, Veterans admitted from the community to specialized intensive PTSD programs were assessed at intake and 4 months after discharge. Seven mutually exclusive groups were identified from admission self-report data (N=22,948): no substance use, exclusive use of alcohol, opiates, sedatives, cocaine, marijuana, and use of three or more substances. Analysis of covariance, adjusting for potentially confounding baseline variables was used to compare change among these seven groups in non-substance use outcomes (PTSD symptoms, violent behavior, suicidality, medical problems, and employment). The effect of abstinence on specific groups was evaluated as the interaction of group membership by abstinence. RESULTS All outcome measures except for employment showed significant improvement, with few differences between the groups. Although rate of abstinence differed markedly between the groups, abstinence achievement was associated with greater improvement on all the outcomes except employment in every group. No significant differences in the effect of abstinence across the substance abuse groups were observed. CONCLUSION The specific type of substance used prior to entry into treatment among dually diagnosed PTSD patients seems to have limited effect on treatment outcomes. However, attainment of abstinence at 4 months after treatment, irrespective of the substances abused, was strongly associated with improvement in PTSD symptoms, violence, suicidality and medical problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Manhapra
- VA New England Mental Illness Research and Education Center, West Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.
| | - Elina Stefanovics
- VA New England Mental Illness Research and Education Center, West Haven, CT, Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Robert Rosenheck
- VA New England Mental Illness Research and Education Center, West Haven, CT, Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
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