Cannabis

Genetic link between cannabis use and psychosis could help to identify those most at risk

Cannabis and tobacco co-use increases psychosis chances in high-risk cohorts: Study

Cannabis compounds may boost metabolic health while supporting weight loss

Researchers have identified potential mechanisms linked to reduced type 2 diabetes risk in chronic cannabis users. A team led by Nicholas V. DiPatrizio found that specific compounds within cannabis regulate metabolism, leading to significant weight loss and improved glucose regulation in obese mice.

Edible cannabis and pain, sleep, and mental health management in older adults

Study reveals why older adults are using cannabis edibles

Beer and cannabis could share ‘sex switch’, UCD-lead study find

Research Alert: Teens view cannabis as less harmful than alcohol, vapes and cigarettes

A recent study analyzing data from two California school surveys found that adolescents consistently perceive cannabis as the least harmful substance among their peers. The study, which examined responses from over 175,000 students, also identified age, experience, and social environment as factors influencing teens' perceptions of can...

Cannabis microdosing more common than psychedelics among US adults, national survey finds

A national survey found that millions of US adults have microdosed substances like cannabis, psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA, with cannabis being the most commonly microdosed. The study also revealed patterns tied to mental health and policy environments, suggesting that changes in drug policy may influence access to these substances.

New research shows risks of combining cannabis edibles and alcohol behind the wheel

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that combining cannabis edibles and alcohol worsens driving impairment compared to consuming either substance alone. The research highlights the urgent need for wider public education about augmented effects from co-use and improved roadside detection methods.

New laws cut cannabis arrests, but racial disparities persist

A study by Weill Cornell Medicine and others found that while cannabis arrests decreased by 62% for white individuals and 51% for Black individuals after legalization, racial disparities persisted. Legalization also led to a shift in law enforcement practices, with lower arrest rates for selling other illicit drugs.

Combining cannabis with opioids offers no added pain relief for knee arthritis patients

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that combining cannabis with opioids did not improve acute pain relief for people with knee arthritis. The study also showed that using the two drugs together increased side effects such as drowsiness and impaired thinking without added pain relief.

Largest US study finds teen cannabis use linked to slower cognitive development

Teenagers who begin using cannabis show slower gains in thinking and memory skills as they grow. The study found that teens who used cannabis showed restricted growth over time compared to those who did not.

Cannabis use disorder among young people linked to diagnosis of psychiatric disorders

A study of nearly 700,000 health records reveals that young people with cannabis use disorder are more likely to be diagnosed with psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, recurrent major depression, and anxiety disorders. In contrast, adults with cannabis use disorder are less likely to develop these conditions.

No evidence to suggest medicinal cannabis is effective for depression, anxiety or PTSD: research

A comprehensive review of 54 randomized controlled trials found no evidence that medicinal cannabis is effective in treating anxiety, depression, or PTSD. However, the study suggests that medicinal cannabis may be beneficial for certain conditions, such as reducing seizures associated with epilepsy and managing pain.

Inconsistent labeling and high doses found in delta-8 THC products: JSAD study

A recent study found that delta-8 THC products often lack clear and consistent labeling, with high doses found in products marketed to youth. The study highlights concerns for consumer safety, as the products are subject to fewer regulations than medical and recreational cannabis.

Recreational cannabis laws may displace illegal cannabis markets

States adopting recreational cannabis laws in addition to medical cannabis laws experienced a 45% relative reduction in cannabis seizure counts. This decline suggests a reduction in illegal cannabis supply and changes in law enforcement priorities.

Cannabis intoxication disrupts many types of memory

A new study found that cannabis intoxication disrupts many types of memory, including verbal, visuospatial, and episodic content memory. Participants who consumed cannabis performed significantly worse than the placebo group on most measures, with significant differences appearing in 15 of the 21 tests.

Cannabis compounds show promise in fighting fatty liver disease

Researchers discovered that CBD and CBG can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health by creating a backup energy reserve and restoring cellular cleaning crews. These compounds also showed promising effects on treating metabolic diseases, including reducing body fat mass and improving insulin sensitivity.

Major Canadian study finds strong link between cannabis, anxiety and depression

A Canadian study of 35,000 Canadians found a significant link between cannabis use and increased rates of anxiety and depression. The study suggests that stronger products, wider availability, and stress relief may be contributing to the observed patterns.

Cannabis essential oils unlock how camphor repels mosquitoes - new study

Researchers have identified the specific smell receptor that causes mosquitoes to avoid borneol, a natural compound found in camphor tree oils. Activating this receptor triggers a neural pathway leading to avoidance behavior, offering potential strategies for designing more targeted and effective mosquito repellents.

Adolescent cannabis use may follow the same pattern as alcohol use

A new study based on extensive data from Swedish school surveys found that changes in average cannabis use among adolescents are reflected across the entire group. The distribution of cannabis use has remained highly stable over time, with increases or decreases occurring in parallel across all user groups.

Study: Adolescent cannabis use linked to doubling risk of psychotic and bipolar disorders

A large new study published in JAMA Health Forum found that past-year cannabis use during adolescence is associated with a significantly higher risk of incident psychotic, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders. Cannabis use preceded psychiatric diagnoses by an average of 1.7 to 2.3 years.

Adolescent cannabis use and risk of psychotic, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders

A cohort study found that adolescent cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders, particularly psychotic and bipolar conditions. The study's results inform the development of interventions and policies to prevent or delay adolescent cannabis use.

‘The munchies’ are real and could benefit those with no appetite

A study by Washington State University and the University of Calgary found that cannabis use increases appetite in humans and rodents alike, regardless of food consumption or body mass index. The researchers discovered that the brain's cannabinoid receptors play a key role in stimulating hunger, paving the way for future treatments.

Opioid use dropped in states that legalized recreational cannabis

A new study found that removing legal barriers to cannabis use may reduce daily opioid use and lower the risk of opioid-related overdoses among people who inject drugs. US states that legalized recreational cannabis saw a 9-to-11-percentage-point decline in daily opioid use among this population.

UT Health San Antonio research shows Alzheimer’s prevention potential in pairing cannabis ingredient, anti-inflammatory drug

A new study led by Dr. Chu Chen suggests that combining THC with celecoxib may improve cognition and reduce Alzheimer's-related brain pathology in mice. The combination produced better outcomes than low-dose THC alone, including improved learning and memory performance and reduced markers of neuroinflammation.

Could swapping a cold one for a cannabis beverage help people drink less?

A survey of 438 adults who used cannabis in the past year found that nearly 56% also drank alcoholic beverages, with users more likely to substitute cannabis for alcohol. Respondents reported consuming fewer alcoholic drinks and binge drinking less frequently after starting cannabis beverages.

Cannabis may help some communities cope with gun violence

A new study found that cannabis use was associated with lower blood pressure among street-identified Black Americans, but no alleviation of anxiety and depression. The research suggests potential benefits for cardiovascular health and highlights the need for violence-reduction programs to support these communities.

Irradiated cannabis might still harbour toxic fungi and residues, McGill study finds

Researchers found viable spores of mycotoxigenic fungi, DNA fragments, and traces of toxins remained after gamma irradiation, highlighting the need for stricter testing and better safeguards in the cannabis industry. This is particularly concerning for immunocompromised individuals who may be at higher risk.

No clear evidence that cannabis-based medicines relieve chronic nerve pain

An updated Cochrane review of 21 clinical trials involving over 2,100 adults found no high-quality evidence that cannabis-based medicines reduce neuropathic pain more than placebo. Small improvements were reported by patients using products with both THC and CBD, but these changes were not clinically meaningful.

The stop-smoking medication varenicline may also work for cannabis use disorder

A new study found that varenicline, a medication used to quit smoking, can help men with cannabis use disorder reduce their cannabis use. However, the same treatment showed no significant effect on female participants. Women who received varenicline reported higher withdrawal and craving scores and lower medication adherence compared t...

Smartphone-based interventions show promise for reducing alcohol and cannabis use: New research

New research suggests that mobile health interventions tailored to individual needs can reduce harms associated with heavy drinking and cannabis use. Studies demonstrate the effectiveness of personalized feedback and protective behavioral strategies in reducing substance use risks, paving the way for innovative digital interventions.

UCLA receives $7.3 million for wide-ranging cannabis research

The funding will support research at UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine, College of Letters and Science, and Fielding School of Public Health. The studies aim to inform evidence-based regulation and public health priorities.

For teens, any cannabis use may have impact on emotional health, academic performance

A large national study found that even occasional cannabis use among teens can lead to worse school performance and emotional distress. The more frequently teens used cannabis, the greater the risk of these problems. Experts recommend frank conversations with teens about cannabis risks.

Cannabis-based products show limited short-term benefit for chronic pain, with increased risk of adverse effects

A systematic review found that cannabis products with higher THC concentration provide small improvements in pain and function, but at the cost of increased risks of common adverse events. CBD-only formulations showed no benefits. Long-term research is needed to guide patients and policymakers.

Cannabis products with more THC slightly reduce pain but cause more side effects

A systematic evidence review finds that cannabis products with higher levels of THC provide short-term pain relief, but at the cost of increased side effects. CBD-based products, on the other hand, show almost no benefit in reducing pain.

New BrainHealth research reveals tradeoffs on sleep with cannabis use for chronic pain

Research reveals cannabis use may promote deep, restorative sleep critical for physical restoration and immune function, but at the cost of reduced emotional regulation and memory integration. Chronic cannabis users experience diminishing benefits as use increases.

Cannabis derivatives could provide new ovarian cancer treatments

Lab studies found that a combination of THC and CBD kills ovarian cancer cells without harming healthy cells. The compounds may prevent metastasis and have minimal toxic effects, making them a promising alternative to current treatments.

Clinical trial finds cannabis use not a barrier to quitting nicotine vaping

A new clinical trial found that varenicline, a medication for quitting nicotine, was effective in vaping cessation regardless of cannabis use. Cannabis use did not appear to be a barrier to successful vaping cessation, and participants who used cannabis had similar odds of achieving abstinence as those who did not.

New computer simulation could light the way to safer cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals

A new study used deep learning and large-scale computer simulations to identify structural differences in synthetic cannabinoid molecules that cause them to bind to human brain receptors differently from classical cannabinoids. Researchers found that these substances often trigger the beta arrestin pathway, leading to more severe psych...

Study finds increase in risk of binge drinking among 12th graders who use 2 or more cannabis products

A new study by the University at Buffalo found that 12th graders who use two or more cannabis products are more likely to engage in binge drinking. The study suggests that certain modes of cannabis consumption, such as smoking and vaping, may be linked to higher risks of binge drinking.

Want to curb cannabis-related crashes? Don’t forget older adults, study finds

A new study suggests that prevention campaigns for cannabis-related vehicle crashes should target middle-aged and older adults, who are at risk of driving after using the drug. Adults over 50 who use cannabis daily or have mental health reasons are most likely to drive after using THC-containing products.

Medical cannabis program reduces opioid use

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that adults with chronic pain who used medical cannabis had a 22% reduction in opioid use. The study, led by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, suggests that supervised use of medical cannabis can relieve chronic pain and reduce reliance on prescription opioids.

Medical cannabis and opioid receipt among adults with chronic pain

A cohort study found that participation in New York's medical cannabis program was associated with lower rates of opioid prescription during a 18-month follow-up. The study controlled for unregulated cannabis use, suggesting that medical cannabis may be an effective alternative to opioids for managing chronic pain.

Increased use of cannabis seen among adolescents with psychiatric illnesses after cannabis sales became legal

After cannabis sales became legal, rates of cannabis use and cannabis-related disorders increased significantly among adolescents aged 12 to 17 presenting for psychiatric emergencies. The study found a fourfold increase in cannabis use and a similar rise in cannabis-related disorders among this age group.

Evidence lacking for medical cannabis in most conditions

A comprehensive review of over 2,500 articles found limited support for medical cannabis in treating chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia. However, pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoids have demonstrated effectiveness in specific conditions like HIV/AIDS-related appetite loss and severe pediatric seizure disorders.

Therapeutic use of cannabis and cannabinoids

The study highlights the need for clear guidance from clinicians to support safe cannabis or cannabinoid use. Clinicians should weigh benefits against risks when engaging patients in informed discussions about these therapeutic options.

Having a dispensary in your neighborhood could be harmful to your health

A population-based study found that exposure to cannabis retail stores was associated with increased rates of harm, particularly in neighborhoods with higher store densities. The American College of Physicians recommends that managed care strategies prioritize improving health outcomes over cost control.

Smoking cannabis and eating highly processed foods raises cardiac health risks, USF study finds

A recent USF study found that smoking cannabis and consuming omega-6 enriched processed foods compromises the immune system, leading to weakened heart function and increased inflammation. The combination can weaken the body's defense mechanism, making it harder for the heart to repair damage caused by inhaling cannabis.

Researchers develop first-ever common language for cannabis, hemp aromas

Researchers developed a standardized language for describing cannabis and hemp aromas, which can aid in quality assessment beyond THC potency. The study found that hemp and cannabis exhibit overlapping sensory profiles, with distinct aroma characteristics emerging from each.

UM School of Medicine researcher proposes new medical training on cannabis use

A new paper by University of Maryland School of Medicine researcher David Gorelick proposes six core competencies for medical students to know about cannabis before entering practice. The competencies address clinical utility, risks, legal landscape, and scientific evidence around medical cannabis.

Research hints at the potential of pain relief with CBD

Researchers have discovered a novel delivery method for CBD that effectively targets the brain's nerve cells, providing pain relief without adverse side effects. The study found that CBD-IN, a nano-micelle formulation of CBD, calms overactive nerve circuits in the areas responsible for sensing touch and pain.

Low-dose THC reduces side effects of HIV treatment

A new study from Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that low-dose THC significantly reduced side effects and inflammation caused by HIV and antiretroviral therapy. The treatment also increased serotonin levels, lowered cholesterol and toxic bile acids, and improved cardiovascular health.

Closer proximity to cannabis retail stores linked with more cannabis use but less drinking

A statewide study of over 60,000 Oregon adults found that proximity to cannabis retailers is linked with increased cannabis use and decreased heavy drinking. Adults in two age groups, 21-24 and 65+, showed the most pronounced effects.

Study links early cannabis use and health problems

A new study found that adolescents who start using cannabis early are more likely to need healthcare for mental and physical problems as they enter adulthood. Those who began using cannabis before age 15 were more likely to seek care for depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and physical health issues.

Teenagers and young adults who use cannabis have a higher risk of progressing to regular tobacco use

A study published in Tobacco Control found that teenagers and young adults who use cannabis are more likely to become regular tobacco users, even if they haven't previously tried tobacco. The study estimated that 13% of new regular tobacco use is attributable to cannabis, with significant implications for tobacco control programs.

Teenagers and young adults who use cannabis have a higher risk of progressing to regular tobacco use

A US study found that teenagers who use cannabis are more likely to become regular tobacco users, with 32.7% of those aged 12-17 progressing to regular tobacco use four years later. The study estimates that around 13% of new regular tobacco use is attributable to cannabis.

Survey: Californians don’t know cannabis driving laws

A new study by UC San Diego found that a third of Californians use cannabis regularly, yet there are significant gaps in knowledge about driving-related laws and regulations. The researchers emphasize the need for targeted education initiatives to address these knowledge gaps and promote safe driving practices.

Smoking both cannabis and tobacco may alter brain’s ‘bliss molecule,’ study finds

Researchers found distinct brain changes in individuals using both cannabis and tobacco compared to those using only cannabis. This may explain increased depression and anxiety in dual users, as well as why quitting cannabis is harder for them.

Cannabis laws and opioid use among commercially insured patients with cancer diagnoses

A recent study found that cannabis may reduce opioid use among commercially insured patients with cancer diagnoses, indicating potential benefits for pain management. However, further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of cannabis as a treatment for cancer-related pain.