Marijuana (cannabis) use can modulate neurotransmitter release and produce a wide range of central nervous system effects, including increased pleasure and alteration of memory processes. Those effects provide a rationale for using marijuana to manage the 3 core PTSD symptom clusters: re-experiencing, avoidance and numbing, and hyper-arousal.
This study evaluated 11 articles from a literature search regarding PTSD and marijuana use. Data from 4 small studies indicate that marijuana use is associated with overall improvement in PTSD symptoms, and the specific improvement of insomnia and nightmares.
The evaluated evidence indicates that substantial numbers of military veterans use marijuana to control PTSD symptoms, with some patients being able to reduce anxiety and insomnia while improving their coping ability.
