Could CANNABIS prevent PTSD? Drug 'alters the area of the brain associated with traumatic memories'

• Synthetic cannabis compound given to rats after an electric shock
• They were then shown a reminder of the shock to bring back the memory 
• Rats given the compound showed no symptoms of PTSD
• Comparably, rats not administered the compound showed PTSD symptoms
• Compound alters area of the brain associated with traumatic memories
• 'Human trials should be carried out to see if cannabis is a viable treatment'
  
    
   
  Cannabis could help prevent the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), scientists have claimed.
  The drug triggers changes in the area of the brain associated with traumatic memories, they found. 
  The new study adds to a growing body of research showing marijuana can have a positive effect on PTSD. 
  Scientists at the University of Haifa in Israel examined the effects of WIN 55,212-2, a synthetic compound that produces a similar effect that of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active compound in marijuana. 
  
  

  They analysed how the compound affected people exposed to reminders of their trauma.

  
  

  PTSD sufferers often find certain events, places or situations bring back the memory of their trauma, amplifying the negative effects. 

  
  

  Lead author Dr Irit Akirav, of the University of Haifa, said: 'The findings of our study suggest that the connectivity within the brain's fear circuit changes following trauma, and the administration of cannabinoids prevents this change from happening.'

  
  

  She said: 'This study can lead to future trials in humans regarding possible ways to prevent the development of PTSD and anxiety disorders in response to a traumatic event.' 

    

  SYMPTOMS OF POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISOREDER 

  
  

  Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events.

  PTSD can develop immediately after someone experiences a disturbing event or it can occur weeks, months or even years later.

  PTSD is estimated to affect about one in every three people who have a traumatic experience, but it's not clear exactly why some people develop the condition and others don't.

  Someone with PTSD will often relive the traumatic event through nightmares and flashbacks, and may experience feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt.

  They may also have problems sleeping, such as insomnia, and find concentrating difficult.

  These symptoms are often severe and persistent enough to have a significant impact on the person’s day-to-day life.

  Source: NHS Choices

  
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