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Published on: August 18, 2020
Can cannabis trigger recurrent panic attacks in susceptible patients?
Summary
Cannabis use can trigger panic attacks, even after intake stops. This study suggests cannabis may uncover latent panic disorders in susceptible individuals, particularly those with depression.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Cannabis Research
Background:
- Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) is known to cause acute psychiatric reactions like panic and derealization.
- These reactions are typically self-limiting.
- The long-term effects and potential for triggering underlying psychiatric conditions require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for cannabis use to trigger recurrent panic attacks.
- To explore the possibility that cannabis may uncover latent panic disorders in vulnerable individuals.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing three patients experiencing panic attacks during cannabis use.
- Follow-up assessment after cessation of cannabis intake.
- Review of patient history including depressive disorders and seizure history.
Main Results:
- All three patients experienced initial panic attacks associated with cannabis intake.
- Anxiety attacks recurred in these patients even after discontinuing cannabis.
- Two patients had a current depressive disorder, and one had a history of a Grand Mal seizure.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis may act as a trigger for the emergence of recurrent panic attacks.
- Cannabis use might uncover or precipitate panic disorders in predisposed individuals.
- Further research is needed to understand the neurobiological mechanisms linking cannabis and panic disorder.
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