In a recent study, researchers at the University of Miami are exploring the potential benefits of combining CBD with a psychedelic drug for the treatment of combined traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This innovative approach could offer new hope for individuals struggling with these challenging conditions. Read the article by clicking here.
The University of Miami is set to conduct a study that investigates the effects of combining CBD (cannabidiol) with a psychedelic drug on patients with combined TBI and PTSD. The study aims to determine whether this combination therapy can provide more effective relief for individuals experiencing the dual burden of these conditions.
According to the article published on the University of Miami Health News website, the study will involve a carefully designed protocol that includes both psychotherapy and the administration of CBD and a psychedelic drug. The researchers hope to address the symptoms of both TBI and PTSD simultaneously, as these conditions often co-occur and can exacerbate each other's effects.
“Mild traumatic brain injury, especially concussion, is an important cause of morbidity in the United States and in the world today,” said study author Michael E. Hoffer, M.D., professor of otolaryngology and neurological surgery.*
What many do not realize is that TBI often occurs along with posttraumatic stress disorder. Up to 40% of people impacted by mTBI, a head injury causing a temporary change in mental status or consciousness, or TBI in general also suffer from PTSD. This combination of mTBI and PTSD is even more common in U.S military members, according to Dr. Hoffer.*
“As a result, they’re disabled not just by the sequelae of the head injury, which can be dizziness, hearing disorders, memory issues, and headaches, but also posttraumatic stress symptoms that complicate the disability after the head injury,” Dr. Hoffer said.*
Other than medicines that can mask individual symptoms related to the conditions, there are no proven pharmacological treatments or curative options for TBI alone, or TBI and PTSD combined.*
“With this new grant with Tassili, we have the opportunity to explore a combination therapy that might treat the traumatic brain injury as well as the PTSD,” Dr. Hoffer said.*
“Our goal is to develop a prescription pill with these ingredients that treat mTBI and PTSD,” he said. “This is a new and increasingly exciting area. Adding this project to the school’s portfolio allows us at the University of Miami to stay on the cutting edge of modern research.”*
Potential Benefits
Combining CBD with a psychedelic drug could have synergistic effects that target both the physical and psychological aspects of combined TBI and PTSD. By addressing the underlying neuroinflammatory processes, promoting neurogenesis, and facilitating emotional healing, this innovative treatment approach has the potential to alleviate symptoms and enhance overall well-being for affected individuals.
The University of Miami study could provide valuable insights into the efficacy and safety of this combination therapy. If successful, it may open up new avenues for treatment and lead to the development of more personalized approaches for individuals with combined TBI and PTSD.
Hope for a brighter future.
The study being conducted at the University of Miami, which investigates the potential benefits of combining CBD with a psychedelic drug for the treatment of combined TBI and PTSD, represents a significant step forward in understanding and addressing these complex conditions. By exploring novel treatment approaches, researchers are striving to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions and offer hope for a brighter future.
*University of Miami Health News. "UM to Study if CBD Combined with a Psychedelic Drug Can Treat Combined Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD." Physician News. Retrieved from https://physician-news.umiamihealth.org/um-to-study-if-cbd-combined-with-a-psychedelic-drug-can-treat-combined-traumatic-brain-injury-and-ptsd/ on July 17, 2023.
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