Changes in Cortisol Awakening Response Before and After Development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Which Cannot be Avoided with Use of Cannabidiol: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have shown attenuated cortisol awakening response in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

CASE PRESENTATION: A 15-year-old girl, a survivor of acute sexual violence, received a 7-day oral treatment with cannabidiol. She was followed-up from the first 24 hours after the event for 6 months, for assessment of the effects of this treatment on the reconsolidation of memories related to the traumatic event.

DISCUSSION: Cannabidiol treatment did not prevent the onset of PTSD. Cortisol awakening responses after the onset of the disorder were attenuated compared with those observed in the same individual before the onset of PTSD, in line with previous evidence from studies comparing groups with and without PTSD.