A Case Report on Generalized Anxiety Disorder through Medical Cannabis

Abstract

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a specifically an anxiety disorder characterized by excessive/uncontrollable and often irrational worry worrying, anxiety symptoms and tension about a variety of everyday problems, events or activities for a period of at least 6 months. Individuals with GAD often have other disorders including other psychiatric disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder), substance use disorder, obesity, and may have a history of trauma or family with GAD. As per Aacharya Charaka Generalized Anxiety Disorder can be correlated with the Chittodwega (Excited state of mind) which is type of Manovikara (disease of mind). The contemporary management of this disease employs anxiolytics to be used in long run which is not conducive to health. As per this view cannabis stands as ‘Holy Grail’ in the treatment of anxiety or mood disorders without eliciting any anxiogenic effects even in higher dose. This is a case of 57 year old women who presented with persistent anxiety and inability to relax. Based on signs and symptoms he was diagnosed as a case of GAD according to the ICD 10 F41.1 criteria. Treatment planned was low dose of oral medical cannabis tincture. Assessment of the condition of the patient before and after the treatment was done using Hamilton’s Anxiety Rating Scale to evaluate efficacy of treatment. After the completion of schedule of 3 month of treatment, a significant reduction in score from 20 to 12 on Hamilton’s Anxiety Rating Scale and improvement in symptoms was observed.