OE Journal

ORIGINAL ANALYSIS

Medical Cannabis for Anxiety – Scoping the Evidence

Interest in medical cannabis for anxiety has grown, with anxiety ranking among the most common reasons for therapeutic use in Canada. Evidence so far remains mixed, prompting a review of randomized trials assessing whether cannabinoids ease anxiety symptoms. Across more than twenty trials involving varied populations—from neuropathic pain to social anxiety—results showed that only a minority reported clear anxiety relief, while most were inconclusive. Studies tested a range of products, including THC, CBD, combinations, and synthetic cannabinoids, each acting differently within the endocannabinoid system. With inconsistent findings and diverse study designs, the overall impact of medical cannabis on anxiety remains uncertain, and a pooled meta-analysis is underway to provide clearer direction.