The Morning Edition New study shows medicinal cannabis 'doesn't work'
Mar 17, 2026
Angus Thompson, health reporter who investigates medical and public-health issues, presents Australian research on ten years of prescribed medicinal cannabis. He covers rising prescriptions across hundreds of conditions. He outlines a major Lancet Psychiatry review finding no reliable evidence for anxiety, depression or PTSD. He highlights limited trial quality, unknown long-term harms, regulatory and prescribing challenges.
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No Evidence Cannabis Treats Anxiety Or PTSD
- Systematic review of 50+ randomized trials found no evidence medicinal cannabis helps anxiety, depression or PTSD.
- Review covered ~2,500 participants and did find limited benefits for Tourette's, insomnia sleep time, and autism traits.
Research Hasn't Kept Up With Prescribing
- Research into medicinal cannabis for mental health is sparse despite widespread prescribing.
- Angus and experts note legalisation happened years ago but trials, especially for mental health, haven't kept pace with use.
Young Father Became Dependent On Potent Prescribed Cannabis
- Daniel Yacouel was prescribed potent medicinal cannabis for anxiety and became dependent, consuming 60g a month and spending more than his rent.
- After quitting four months ago he reports better sleep, vivid dreams, and improved mental health.