30/04/2007 16:00:00
UK: Cannabis May Help Treat Schizophrenia
---
Cannabis could hold the key to a revolutionary new treatment for
schizophrenia, surprising new research suggests.
The class C drug contains a chemical that could be used to treat the
mental illness with fewer side effects than current medicines,
scientists say.
Though one chemical in cannabis can cause psychotic symptoms, another
actually stifles those effects and could be used as a medicine.
Experts say concentrations of the harmful compound tetra-hydracannabinol
(THC) are increasing in weed currently on the drugs market while levels
of balancing cannabidiol (CBD) are dropping, causing the recent surge in
cannabis smokers suffering psychosis and schizophrenia.
In a study to be presented at the Institute of Psychiatry's
international conference on cannabis and mental health, Dr Marcus Leweke
investigated the effects of CBD on 42 schizophrenia patients.
Some were treated with conventional drugs and others given CBD and
though both groups' psychotic symptoms improved, those given the
cannabis component experienced fewer side effects.
Side effects of standard anti-psychotic drug amisulpride include weight
gain, sexual dysfunction and liver problems.
Dr Luweke said: "There is a good possibility that there are good guys
and bad guys in cannabis.
"THC is the bad guy, but there is a small body of literature that
suggests CBD may prevent the induction of psychotic symptoms. Our study
supports that view."
comments:
http://www.lse.co.uk/ShowStory.asp?story=MK136905E&news_headline=cannabis_may_help_treat_schizophrenia
Source:
http://www.ukcia.org/news/shownewsarticle.php?articleid=12501
Author:
Life Style Extra via UKCIA
|