Articles tagged with Cannabis
A new study of regular cannabis users found that high-potency marijuana concentrates spike blood levels of THC more than twice as much as conventional weed, but do not lead to greater impairment. Despite this, the study raises concerns about the potential long-term health risks of concentrated cannabis use.
A recent study led by Washington State University's Carrie Cuttler found that cannabis reduces the severity of post-traumatic distress disorder (PTSD) symptoms by about 62% for intrusions, 51% for flashbacks, and 67% for irritability. However, the symptom reductions were not permanent.
A University of Toronto team has been awarded a $1.5 million grant to study the impact of cannabis use on Indigenous oral health in Canada. The study will gather first evidence of the effects of cannabis on Indigenous populations, working in partnership with communities and public health authorities.
A comprehensive new report by the University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center documents cannabis trends in Michigan, including increased use among Michiganders, revenue generated for the state, and growing public health concerns related to cannabis use disorder, motor vehicle crashes and emergency department visits. The report prov...
A new study has found no link between recent cannabis use and an increased or decreased risk of ischemic stroke. Despite previous studies with conflicting results, researchers adjusted for various factors and found no association between marijuana use and stroke risk.
Researchers found that frequent cannabis users are unaware of effective harm reduction techniques, such as avoiding driving after use. Public health practitioners need to better inform users about these strategies to minimize costs and risks associated with cannabis use.
Researchers have identified cannabis and frankincense on two Iron Age altars in a biblical Judahite shrine, shedding new light on cult practices. The study suggests cannabis was used as a psychoactive to stimulate ecstasy during ceremonies.
A new study from the University of Bristol found that users of high-potency cannabis are four times more likely to report associated problems than users of lower-potency strains. The research used data from a long-term health study and controlled for other factors, such as frequency of use and early mental health symptoms.
Research found that most people at high risk of overdose in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside who use cannabis do so for pain relief and other therapeutic reasons. Cannabis users in this group had lower odds of experiencing a recent non-fatal opioid overdose, indicating a possible reduction in opioid reliance.
Researchers at UNM demonstrated that legal cannabis hemp oil reduced mechanical pain sensitivity by 10-fold in mice with chronic post-operative neuropathic pain. The study's findings suggest that hemp oil can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, offering a natural and relatively safe alternative to conventional drugs.
A recent study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found sex-related differences in the effects of cannabis use on brain activity and subjective response. Neural activity primarily underlies response to cannabis cues, with no differences between male and female users, while female users exhibit more intense subjective craving.
A study found that an optimal minimum legal age of 19 for non-medical cannabis use balances the risk of adverse outcomes with the potential benefits. This age limit is lower than previously recommended ages, but higher than the current age of 18 in Canada.
A new study in Washington state found that police officers have varying concerns about the legalization of cannabis, including its effects on youth and impaired driving. The study's findings can inform other states' efforts to address legalization.
UCLA chemists have reported the key chemical discovery necessary for creating a small, electronic marijuana breathalyzer. The research uses electricity to change the chemical structure of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, making it easier to detect whether a person is impaired.
Dr. Staci Gruber will use the grant to investigate differences between whole-plant, full-spectrum and single extracted compounds in cannabis products. Her research aims to clarify the potential for synergistic effects of full-spectrum products versus single extracted compounds.
Research focuses on simultaneous cannabis and alcohol use's impact on fetal brain development, nerve growth, and blood vessels. The study aims to understand the combined effects of SAC on developing offspring.
A new study by UC Davis finds that California cannabis safety testing costs growers around 10% of the average wholesale price, mainly due to rejected product disposal. Higher testing costs translate into higher prices for the licensed market, posing a risk to unlicensed alternatives.
A study published in Advances in Preventive Medicine found that Canadians with a history of cannabis dependence are more likely to have some form of mental illness or substance dependence. Social support and being older were also associated with better mental health outcomes.
A Columbia-led study found that early exposure to cannabis makes young brains more sensitive to cocaine, shedding light on the neurobiology of drug use in adolescence. The research revealed key molecular and epigenetic changes in adolescent rats' brains after synthetic psychoactive cannabinoids were followed by cocaine.
A study combining 47 studies with 23,000 participants estimated that cannabis withdrawal syndrome affects approximately 8% of individuals who stop using the substance. The syndrome's symptoms include irritability, nervousness or anxiety, depression, and headache.
Daily marijuana users with severe pain reported worsening health over the past year, despite frequent cannabis use. The study found no association between marijuana use and changes in health status among those with low levels of pain.
A study surveyed 2,400 US 12th-graders from 2015 to 2018, finding an increase in marijuana vaping and edible use. The researchers also found that smoking marijuana was the most common method of use among this age group.
A recent study found that THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, impairs female fertility by decreasing embryo development and quality. The research suggests that females exposed to THC have lower rates of viable pregnancies and are more likely to experience infertility.
A recent study by Washington State University researchers found that more than 50% of college students reported experiencing coughing fits, anxiety, and/or paranoia while using cannabis. The study also identified the most distressing adverse reactions, which included panic attacks, fainting, and vomiting.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that more than 90% of legal marijuana products offered in medical dispensaries are stronger than recommended for chronic pain relief. This can lead to increased risk of developing cannabis-use disorders and tolerance, according to the study's lead author.
The need for correct CBD labeling is a growing concern due to its increasing use in food and supplements. Accurate labeling helps protect consumers from false or unsubstantiated claims, ensuring they receive evidence-based treatments.
A recent study highlights large gaps in the cannabis genome, with less than 50% accurately mapped and 10-25% unmapped. The research aims to develop a molecular breeding program for cannabis comparable to other crops, with potential applications in human and animal health.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cannabinoid treatment reduced subjective pain scores compared to placebo in patients with acute pain. Intramuscular cannabinoids were more effective than oral cannabinoids in reducing pain relative to placebo.
A recent investigation by The BMJ uncovered links between groups advocating for wider medical cannabis access and those pushing for recreational legalization. Industry funding for research into medicinal properties of cannabis has raised concerns about conflicts of interest and the potential normalization of cannabis use.
A single dose of THC can induce a range of psychiatric symptoms in healthy volunteers, including schizophrenia-like symptoms. No consistent evidence suggests that cannabidiol moderates the effects of THC.
A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that pregnant women with depression are more than 3 times more likely to use cannabis. The study, based on nationally representative data, also revealed that depression increases vulnerability to cannabis use even among those who perceive substantial risk.
Adding travel history to patient evaluation could help identify risk for potential exposure to COVID-19. The authors argue that this simple measure can trigger more detailed history, appropriate testing, and rapid implementation of protective measures.
Researchers have identified cannabigerol (CBG) as a potent antibacterial agent against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). CBG targets the cell membrane of gram-positive bacteria, showing promise in treating MRSA infections.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a non-psychoactive cannabinoid called CBG that shows promising antibacterial activity against drug-resistant MRSA. The study found that CBG prevents the ability of bacteria to form biofilms and destroys preformed biofilms, targeting the cell membrane of the bacteria.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that adolescents who are bullied about their weight or body shape may be more likely to use alcohol or marijuana. The link between appearance-related teasing and substance use was strongest among overweight girls, raising special concerns about this group.
A study analyzing national survey data found that cannabis use increased significantly among women, racial/ethnic minorities, and those with higher incomes or education levels. The proportion of adults who reported past-year marijuana use rose from 2.4% to 4.2% between 2015-2018.
A large observational study found an association between cannabis use during pregnancy and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and trauma diagnoses. The study analyzed data from over 1 million women screened for prenatal cannabis use in California.
Research found that community-level LGBTQ supportiveness is associated with lower odds of lifetime substance use among sexual minority boys and girls. Living in a large population center also reduced the risk of lifetime alcohol use for boys, while a progressive political climate increased the risk of marijuana use for girls.
A new RAND Corporation study found that about 12% of young adults surveyed were aware of heated tobacco products and 5% reported using them. The devices are being promoted by the tobacco industry as alternatives to cigarettes.
A preclinical study found that a human gene variant affects the brain's reward processing circuit and increases vulnerability to THC reward in adolescent females, leading to higher preference for cannabis. The study suggests genetic factors can contribute to increased susceptibility to cannabis dependence in select populations.
A handheld spectrometer has been developed to determine THC levels in cannabis plants, enabling farmers and law enforcement to quickly identify whether a plant is hemp or marijuana. The test distinguishes between various hemp and marijuana varieties with high accuracy.
A study by Kloft et al. found that cannabis use increases susceptibility to false memories and misinformation in mock crime scenarios. This research has significant implications for the questioning of cannabis-intoxicated eyewitnesses and suspects during investigative interviews.
New research shows that US states with medical marijuana laws have seen a decline in workers' compensation claims due to improved symptom management. The modest reductions suggest expanded access to medical marijuana may also boost work capacity and reduce reliance on social insurance programs.
A Washington State University study found that pregnant women use marijuana to manage health issues and reduce stress, with many feeling stigmatized by healthcare providers. The research emphasizes the need for patient-centered care and more information on marijuana's safety during pregnancy.
Researchers found that cannabis enthusiasts have a disconnect between their beliefs about the drug's medicinal use and empirical evidence, with most failing to accurately answer questions on its effectiveness for various medical conditions. The study also revealed a lack of awareness about potential risks associated with cannabis use.
A new study from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons found that non-medical cannabis use is significantly more common in adults with pain than those without pain. Adults with moderate to severe pain are at a higher risk for frequent non-medical cannabis use and cannabis use disorder.
A review article published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates that 2 million adults with cardiovascular disease in the US have used or currently use marijuana. Observational studies link marijuana use to increased heart risk, including stroke, arrhythmia, and decreased heart muscle function.
Research suggests that medicinal cannabis users may experience increased difficulty falling asleep and more frequent waking during the night due to tolerance development. Additionally, cannabinoids have been found not to be effective in reducing cancer-related pain.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that approximately 2 million adults in the US who have cardiovascular disease currently use or have used marijuana. The review also reveals that cannabinoids can interact with drugs used to treat heart disease, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
A review suggests that marijuana use can increase cardiovascular health hazards, especially when combined with certain medications. Cardiologists are advised to screen patients for marijuana use and adjust dosing accordingly.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that regular cannabis use during pregnancy can lead to reduced birth weight by up to 8% and decreased brain and liver growth. The researchers used a rat model and human placental cells to demonstrate the impact of THC on fetal development.
Media reports on chronic pain focus on opioid-based treatments and cannabis, overlooking evidence-based non-pharmaceutical options. Research analysis reveals limited attention to adverse effects of medicinal cannabis and inadequate resources for pain management.
A new study estimates that daily cannabis users in Australia accounted for over 80% of total cannabis consumption between 2007 and 2016. Prevalence of past cannabis use increased from 8.9% to 10.5% during this period, with 1 in 6 past year users being daily users.
Researchers found that smoked cannabis use impaired executive functions and increased the likelihood of relapse among cocaine addicts. The study suggests that harm reduction strategies using cannabis may not be effective in treating cocaine addiction.
Research highlights the risk of adverse effects from cannabis on breastfeeding infants, with CLCs playing a critical role in guiding mothers. Certified lactation consultants (CLCs) are encouraged to partner with healthcare providers to educate and counsel women using cannabis while breastfeeding.
Researchers found that chronic, heavy recreational marijuana use affects driving ability even when users are not intoxicated. Earlier onset of marijuana use was associated with poorer driving performance and increased impulsivity.
A recent study published in Addiction found that college students in states where marijuana was legalized by 2018 used more marijuana and were 18% more likely to have used it in the past 30 days compared to students in non-legalized states. In contrast, binge drinking rates decreased significantly in these states, with students aged 21...
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found a molecule produced by the brain that reduces anxiety-causing connections between two brain regions. This discovery could lead to pharmacologic treatments regulating anxiety and depressive symptoms in people with stress-related anxiety disorders.
The prevalence of marijuana detected in homicide victims increased significantly between 2004 and 2016, with a notable rise among adolescent victims. The study found that over two-thirds of victims aged 15-20 years tested positive for marijuana, highlighting the potential risks associated with marijuana use.
Cannabis edibles take on average four hours longer to produce noticeable effects than inhaled cannabis, increasing the risk of overconsumption. Vulnerable groups, such as children, pets, older people, and youth, are at particular risk due to delayed effects and potential for accidental overconsumption.