Cannabis healthcare company Bod Australia Limited has announced that its cannabidiol oil formulation, MediCabilis 5% CBD ECs315 (MediCabilis™), will be used in a landmark twelve-month trial for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, as a possible treatment for the debilitating condition.
“Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is widespread and debilitating on a global scale. The Australian Defense Force has reported that an estimated 90 percent of members have experienced at least one potentially traumatic event at sometime of their life, which may result in symptoms of PTSD,” said Bod Australia Chief Executive Office Jo Patterson in a press release.
“We look forward to progressing this trial as it has the potential to significantly strengthen our revenue stream, as well as further validate our product suite,” she continued. “Bod is continuing to progress commercialization and export activities and the Board and management team look forward to updating shareholders on developments in the near term.”
The company is partnering with Cannabis Access Clinics to facilitate screening and intake of study subjects. Research organization Applied Cannabis Research will manage trial participants and collect research data.
“We have firsthand experience treating symptoms of PTSD and seeing the positive effects that medicinal cannabis can have on patient outcomes,” said Cannabis Access Clinics Medical Director Dr. Nijhawan.
“This study will provide valuable insight into how medicinal cannabis is being used and its effect on patient outcomes. It will help build on existing evidence, and support further research and clinical applications. CBD has fewer side effects than the pharmacological therapy currently used, even at high doses.”
“Through the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), Australia has a stringent medical compliance framework for medicinal cannabis that requires precise dosing and monitoring of patients, making it an ideal location for this type of research,” said Dr. John Barlow, principal researcher at Applied Cannabis Research.
“We hope to add to the increasing body of knowledge about medicinal cannabis and the potential for benefit to patients suffering from the effects of traumatic experiences.”
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid compound derived from cannabis or hemp, and has reputed medical benefits for conditions including cancer and symptoms from cancer, epilepsy, as well as potential anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects.
Those who suffer from PTSD have been through a traumatic experience that threatened safety or their lives, and consequently exhibit symptoms including feelings of intense fear, helplessness, and horror. According to Bod, up to twelve percent of Australians may suffer from PTSD.
Bod will use results from the study to “pursue product development, commercialization and product licensing opportunities with the product used in the study,” according to the release. The company also is pursuing trials with additional medical partners, to replicate their research- and revenue-generating business model.
