Articles tagged with Cannabis
A study by University of Colorado Denver researchers found an association between marijuana dispensaries and increases in neighborhood crime and disorder rates, with strongest associations weakening over time. The study suggests that dispensaries may be a factor in crime spikes following legalization.
A large-scale study of American high school students found that legalizing medicinal marijuana has led to a drop in cannabis use among teenagers. The study, which used data from over 800,000 students across 45 states, found a 1.1% reduction in teen cannabis smokers in states with medical marijuana laws compared to those without.
Research analyzing 23,300 people found marijuana use during adolescence increases risk of depression and suicidal thoughts or attempts in young adulthood. There was no similar association with anxiety.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found cannabis use among adolescents is associated with a significant increased risk of depression in adulthood. The study's findings suggest that widespread cannabis use among young people makes the scale of the risk more serious, with a population attributable risk of around 7%.
A new international study reveals that adolescent cannabis use can harmfully alter mental health, even in teenagers without pre-existing depressive symptoms. The risk is particularly elevated in North America, where adolescents have higher rates of cannabis use compared to peers in other developed countries.
A case report describes a patient who developed cardiac events after consuming potent marijuana edibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding THC's effects on the cardiovascular system. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to educate patients with cardiovascular disease about cannabis use and its complications.
Long-term MDMA users display increased empathy and better emotional understanding than those using other drugs, challenging previous suggestions of heightened social distress.
A study by the University of Washington's Social Development Research Group examines parents' attitudes and challenges around marijuana use, highlighting the need for guidance and education. Parents want to learn how to talk to their kids about marijuana risks and effects, and seek information from trustworthy sources.
A new study published in Human Reproduction found that men who have smoked marijuana at some point in their life had significantly higher concentrations of sperm compared to men who have never smoked. The study also found no significant difference in sperm concentrations between current and former marijuana smokers.
Researchers found that moderate cannabis use is associated with higher sperm concentrations and testosterone levels compared to non-smokers. However, the study highlights the need for more research on the effects of cannabis on reproductive health due to limitations in the data collection process.
A Monash University study found that recreational cannabis sales led to an average of one additional traffic fatality per million residents in US states where it was legalized. The increase was short-lived, lasting about a year after legalization. The study also reported spillover effects on neighboring jurisdictions.
A new study found that most medical marijuana users in the US are treating chronic pain, with 85.5% of patients reporting an evidence-based condition. The study analyzed data from states with legalized medical use of marijuana and found a dramatic increase in patient numbers over time.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that cannabis treatment showed significant improvement in symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in over 80% of patients. The treatment was well-tolerated and improved quality of life, mood, and ability to perform daily activities.
A new study found that smoked cannabis as an adjunctive therapy can be both effective and cost-effective in treating chronic peripheral neuropathy. The research simulated its use in one million patients and compared it to usual care, finding that cannabis was a viable alternative.
A new study found that adolescents and young adults in liberal states reported higher past-year cannabis use rates than those in conservative states. However, the rates of cannabis use disorder were significantly lower in liberal states compared to conservative states for ages 12-17 and marginally lower for ages 26 and older.
A new review by UBC researchers found that up to one-third of pregnant women do not believe cannabis is harmful to their fetus. The study suggests that perceptions about cannabis use influence decision-making among pregnant women. Women who used cannabis during pregnancy were more likely to be under 25, unemployed, or have low income a...
A new study finds that even a small amount of cannabis use by teenagers is linked to differences in their brains, including increased gray matter volume in areas involved in emotion and memory development. The researchers also ruled out pre-existing brain differences or personality traits as possible explanations for the findings.
Research finds that experiencing pain can motivate individuals to use substances and make it harder to quit, resulting in a positive feedback loop that maintains both conditions. Clinicians should assess patients for chronic pain and address it during treatment to help them manage withdrawal and develop healthier coping strategies.
A study of 14-year-olds from Ireland, England, France, and Germany found increased volume of brain regions in teenagers who reported limited cannabis use. The researchers identified associations between increased grey matter volume and assessments of reasoning and anxiety.
A new study found that more than half of medical cannabis users drive under the influence within two hours of use, with one in five driving 'very high'. The researchers urge for clearer guidelines and public education to increase awareness of cannabis-related driving impairment.
A new study found that exposure to cannabis and stress during adolescence can lead to long-term anxiety disorders. The researchers observed impaired fear extinction in adult mice treated with THC and exposed to stress, suggesting a deregulation in the circuit that regulates fear.
Universal screening of individual blood donations for Zika virus is not cost-effective in the 50 US states during the first year. Screening was only cost-effective in high mosquito season in Puerto Rico, and finding suggests revisiting universal blood screening policy.
The study reveals that herbal cannabis THC concentrations increased by 5% annually from 2006 to 2016, while cannabis resin THC levels rose rapidly from 10% to 17% between 2011 and 2016. This shift may offset the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD.
Research from Duke University Medical Center found that cannabis use affects epigenetics, altering DNA methylation and structural changes in sperm. The study's findings raise concerns about the potential genetic impact of cannabis on children born to fathers who have used the substance.
Researchers at Indiana University found that CBD worsens glaucoma by raising eye pressure in mice. The study suggests a need to understand potential side effects of CBD, especially in children.
The 2018 Monitoring the Future survey found a dramatic increase in teen vaping, with over 1 in 10 eighth graders and nearly 20% of high school seniors using nicotine vapes. Meanwhile, opioid misuse has dropped to record lows, with only 3.4% of 12th graders reporting past-year use.
Researchers discovered that genetically vulnerable mice exposed to marijuana showed increased inflammation in brain cells linked to serious mental illnesses. The study suggests that marijuana's brain-damaging effects may be more pronounced in teens with a specific genetic mutation.
A new study led by an Iowa State University researcher found that higher average potency cannabis at first use increases the risk for the first symptom of cannabis use disorder within a year. Individuals who started using cannabis with 4.9% THC had 1.88 times higher risk, while those with 12.3% THC had 4.85 times higher risk.
A survey of dermatology providers found that they are interested in learning about and recommending cannabinoids as treatments for conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Despite their enthusiasm, many expressed concerns about societal stigmas surrounding cannabis use, highlighting the need for further education and research.
A new drug has been shown to reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms and increase abstinence in those trying to quit, according to a Yale-led study. The medication works by inhibiting the enzyme that degrades anandamide, a brain chemical that acts on brain cannabis receptors.
A phase 2 trial of 70 men with cannabis dependence or use disorder found that an experimental drug reduced cannabis use and withdrawal symptoms compared to placebo. The drug, PF-04457845, works by blocking an enzyme that breaks down a natural endocannabinoid chemical in the brain.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that vaping cannabis can deliver greater amounts of THC, the primary intoxicant in cannabis, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions. Vaping is thought to be safer than smoking but may not be suitable for infrequent users.
A study of 17 healthy adults found that smoked and vaporized marijuana produced different cognitive and psychomotor effects. Vaporized cannabis resulted in stronger psychoactive effects and higher blood concentrations of THC compared to equal doses of smoked cannabis.
A study by North Carolina State University found that women are more likely to support strict marijuana policies due to their religious beliefs and lower rates of cannabis use. Mothers, in particular, do not differ from childless women in terms of their views on marijuana policy or reported use.
New research suggests that adolescents with conduct problems are more likely to use cannabis and develop a disorder. The study found no link between cannabis use and increased behavior problems among teens.
Researchers created a cannabis chromosome map, detailing gene arrangement on chromosomes, published in Genome Research. The study reveals ancient colonization by viruses, which influenced the production of THC and CBD, lesser-known cannabinoids.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that teens increasingly choose pot over alcohol and cigarettes. The average school grade during which young people first tried alcohol and cigarettes has increased, with a significant drop in the proportion who used cigarettes before marijuana.
A study published in Pediatrics found that nearly half of children exposed to second-hand marijuana smoke had detectable levels of THC, a reliable indicator of exposure. Researchers also discovered that third-hand smoke exposure can occur when individuals smoke and the residue lingers on their skin, hair, or clothes.
A recent University of Waterloo study found that high school students with positive mental health are less likely to consume cannabis. The study suggests that marijuana prevention programs should focus on promoting mental wellbeing instead of abstinence.
A study analyzed over 1,000 social media posts from six recreational marijuana companies in Washington state to assess compliance with regulations. Most posts were found to be consistent with state rules, but some promoted therapeutic benefits or appealed to youth, highlighting the need for warnings on intoxication and age restrictions.
Research shows secondhand marijuana smoke can worsen asthma symptoms in children with cannabis allergies, even without direct exposure. After removing cannabis from the home, asthma symptoms improved significantly.
A recent study published in Clinical Kidney Journal found that marijuana use by live kidney donors had no measurable impact on the outcomes of kidney transplants. The study, which reviewed over 290 living donor medical records, also showed no long-term differences in kidney function between marijuana users and non-users.
Researchers found that adolescent marijuana use reduces perineuronal net formation around inhibitory cells, affecting decision-making and self-control. This alteration may have long-term consequences for brain function and behavior.
Research finds that prenatal exposure to THC can impair learning and memory in adolescents, while also improving symptoms in Alzheimer's disease patients. Long-term cannabinoid use alters brain metabolism and connectivity in adults, raising concerns for vulnerable populations.
Researchers at Washington State University have found that heavy cannabis use during pregnancy can affect the cognitive development of offspring. The study used a new model of exposure to recreate human-like cannabis use and found that rats exposed to high amounts of cannabis had trouble adjusting their strategy to get rewards.
A Drexel University-led research project aims to study the health and behavioral effects of medical marijuana use for young adults in Los Angeles. The study, which has been renewed for five years, will track how the state's changing cannabis laws impact public health.
A study found that one month of abstinence from cannabis improved memory functions among adolescents and young adults, including the ability to learn and recall new information. Cognitive improvement occurred largely during the first week of abstinence, suggesting that abstaining from cannabis helps young people learn efficiently.
Students from lower-income neighborhoods who attended top-performing Los Angeles County high schools were less likely to abuse marijuana. Attending one of these schools was linked to lower marijuana use, fewer peers abusing drugs, and improved academic performance.
The article discusses the rise of cannabis-intoxicated driving in the US and challenges surrounding detecting THC levels. Stoned-driving poses a significant accident risk, particularly when combined with alcohol or other substances.
A new review of animal studies reveals that sex differences in response to cannabis are not just socio-cultural, but biological too. Estradiol affects control of movement, social behavior and filtering of sensory input via modulation of the endocannabinoid system.
A team of scientists at McGill University Health Centre has identified the effective dose of cannabidiol (CBD) for safe pain relief without the risk of addiction or euphoria. The study found that low doses of CBD alleviate both pain and anxiety in animal models of chronic pain, offering a potential alternative to THC and opioids.
The long-term effects of smoked cannabis on lung health are unclear due to conflicting research findings. The authors emphasize the need for well-designed studies to address pressing gaps in knowledge and resolve lingering myths.
A new study finds that 12% of frequent marijuana smokers experienced Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome, including symptoms like nervousness, hostility, and sleep difficulty. The study also links CWS to psychiatric disorders, mental disability, and a family history of depression.
A randomized, placebo-controlled study has shown that cannabis oil can produce clinical remission in up to 65% of individuals with moderately severe Crohn's disease after 8 weeks of treatment. However, the improvement does not appear to result from a dampening down of the underlying inflammatory process.
A study of US hospital statistics from 2010-14 found a rise in stroke incidence among marijuana users, with rates increasing from 1.3% to 1.5%. Young stroke survivors also face long-term risks, with nearly 3 times the risk of adverse events compared to older patients.
A study found that 40-50% of leading hip-hop music videos from 2013-2017 contained tobacco and marijuana use, with brand placement increasing with song popularity. The prevalence of combustible or electronic use rose with songs' popularity, particularly among young people.
If cannabis use increases after legalization, the Canadian government should alter its act to prevent negative health effects, according to an editorial. The Government of Canada must be vigilant in tracking cannabis usage and provide adequate funding for research into harms.
Leading hip-hop music videos over five years featured tobacco and marijuana use, with combustible products appearing most frequently. The study's findings highlight the genre's influence on youth behavior and contribute to growing public health concerns.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 clinical trials found that medical marijuana reduced subjective patient assessments of spasticity, pain, and bladder dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis. However, the therapy may carry a higher risk of adverse events compared to placebo.
A UBC study discovered that many cannabis strains have virtually identical levels of THC and CBD, contradicting their unique street names. The research also found new, previously unknown cannabinoids in low quantities that could be related to pharmacological effects and serve as a source of new medicines.