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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A team of UNLV researchers has engineered a new class of cannabidiol (CBD)-like medicines that show powerful seizure-reducing effects. The caraway-seed derived therapies offer a safer and more effective treatment for childhood seizure disorders than existing frontline therapies.
A large genetic study found associations between cannabis use and various traits, including psychiatric disorders, cognitive measures, and physical health problems. The study identified two genes, CADM2 and GRM3, linked to lifetime cannabis use and frequency of use.
Individuals with psychosis reported a large increase in current cannabis use following legalization, exceeding previous estimates for the general population. This finding highlights the need for policymakers to consider the potential health impacts of cannabis use on individuals with psychosis.
The BGU-RADAR Center, in collaboration with leading US universities, has developed a consensus statement on essential knowledge and skills for integrating medical cannabis into clinical practice responsibly. The statement outlines key competencies for healthcare providers to counsel patients effectively on medical cannabis use.
A six-year analysis of coroner records from Ohio reveals that over 40% of drivers who died in fatal crashes tested positive for active THC in their blood, with average levels exceeding most state impairment limits. The study found no change in THC positivity before or after the legalization of recreational cannabis.
Pediatric marijuana ingestions have increased by over 1,000% in the past seven years, primarily due to increased access to cannabis products during the COVID-19 pandemic. Children under 5 years old are most affected, with Black children and those from publicly insured households being disproportionately exposed.
A nationwide app called CHAMPS aims to support safer cannabis consumption among young adults who've experienced a psychotic episode. The pilot study found the app to be well-regarded and can be integrated into real clinical environments.
Researchers manipulated the endocannabinoid signaling system in prenatal mice, leading to altered gene expression, neural properties, and social interaction deficits. This work suggests that prenatal manipulation of this system may lead to neuropsychiatric conditions, particularly those involving social deficits.
A new study found that inhaling marijuana daily is associated with a 44% increased chance of developing asthma. Experts say people should avoid inhaling cannabis to reduce the risk of chronic lung disease. The study's authors emphasize the need for clearer messages about the risks of cannabis use.
A new survey found that the high cost of legal cannabis products is a significant barrier for many participants, while access to unbiased information helps people avoid illicit products. Understanding patients' difficulties in accessing safe products can guide strategies to make the process easier.
A new study analyzing real-world data from over 4 million adults found that cannabis users face almost four times the risk of developing type 2 diabetes within five years compared to non-users. The study suggests that long-term metabolic effects of cannabis use may be linked to insulin resistance and unhealthy dietary behaviors.
Researchers found no indication of reduced driving ability in frequent cannabis users who had abstained for at least two days. The study's findings suggest that relying on blood THC concentrations to assess impairment is not justified for regular cannabis users.
A 12-week high-intensity interval training intervention did not improve hippocampal integrity or cognitive/mental health impairments, but reduced cannabis craving. Regular physical exercise may be a potential strategy for managing cannabis use disorder.
A new longitudinal study by York University found that young adults using both substances in times of high stress and emotional distress reported more negative life consequences. The study suggests that understanding combined use can help young adults mitigate the risk and seek healthier coping mechanisms.
A study by University of California San Diego researchers found that delta-8 THC use is most common in states where marijuana is illegal, with 10.9% of adults reporting lifetime use. The study suggests that gaps in cannabis policy may be steering people towards less-regulated substances.
Insomnia patients taking cannabis-based medical products reported significant improvements in sleep quality, anxiety, and pain over 18 months. The study found sustained benefits with minimal side effects, suggesting potential for medical cannabis as an option for conventional treatments.
Research from King's College London and University of Bath found that people who self-medicate with cannabis for physical or mental discomfort are more likely to develop paranoia and anxiety. The study also discovered a link between childhood trauma and increased paranoia scores, which is exacerbated by cannabis use.
A systematic review found that high-concentration delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis products are linked to unfavorable mental health outcomes, including psychosis and schizophrenia. The review of 99 studies suggests that higher THC concentrations increase the risk for adverse mental health effects.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are conducting a first-of-its-kind study to investigate the effect of cannabis use on facial wound healing in head and neck cancer patients. The study aims to determine whether cannabis smoking negatively affects wound healing, with potential implications for other types of surgery and conditions.
Increased cannabis potency has been linked to a rise in schizophrenia cases. THC content has increased by 5 times since the 2000s, contributing to this correlation.
A study by Columbia University researchers found that unlicensed cannabis products often lack required health warnings and safety features, while also using appealing packaging to attract minors. The study highlights a need for coordinated regulation to ensure product safety and prevent misleading marketing.
A study by Texas A&M University found that cannabis use is more common among non-Hispanic Black men with chronic health issues, particularly those with pain, stress and depression. The research suggests a two-way relationship between cannabis use and worsening physical and mental health.
A new study found that young adults using high-strength cannabis in California tend to consume more and experience greater symptoms of cannabis use disorder. The study, which surveyed over 400 participants, showed a significant association between THC potency and cannabis consumption frequency and quantity.
A recent study by researchers at University of California San Diego School found that individuals with cannabis use disorder are more than three times more likely to develop oral cancer within five years. The study highlights the potential long-term health risks associated with problematic cannabis use and emphasizes the need for furth...
A pioneering international survey found that cannabis and psychedelics were best rated for alleviating eating disorder symptoms by respondents who self-medicated with these non-prescribed drugs. The research also revealed promising avenues for future clinical trials of psilocybin in treating anorexia nervosa.
A recent study by Florida Atlantic University found that US adolescents with cannabis use disorder have low treatment completion rates, ranging from 34.2% to 33.8%. The most common reasons for not completing treatment were dropping out, transferring facilities, and being terminated. Adolescents who began using cannabis at a younger age...
A recent study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found an association between cannabis use disorder and benign salivary gland tumors. The researchers call for further prospective research to confirm this association and understand the relationship between cannabis use and these tumors.
A longitudinal cohort study found that recreational cannabis legalization was associated with increased cannabis and electronic nicotine delivery systems use, but not a significant increase in cigarette use. The study suggests that commercialization policy should be closely monitored as retail cannabis expands.
Researchers investigate cannabis-based treatment to improve quality of care for hospice-eligible patients with dementia. A clinical trial will test T2:C100, a drug containing THC and CBD, to determine its effectiveness in reducing agitation.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that anxiety diagnoses became the most common in Pennsylvania's medical cannabis program after being added, dropping chronic pain and PTSD diagnoses. The team analyzed data from 1,730,600 certifications issued from November 2017 to December 2023.
A study by University of Colorado at Boulder found that nearly half of cannabis flower products contain more THC than their labels claim, while concentrates tend to be accurately labeled. The study emphasizes the importance of accurate labeling in the industry.
A landmark survey of over 5,000 Californians reveals significant gaps in knowledge about cannabis use and its impacts. The study found that many users seek symptom relief, while few consult their doctors for advice on safe use practices.
A randomized clinical trial found that cannabidiol (CBD) administration led to liver enzyme level elevations in 5.6% of participants and potential drug-induced liver injury in 4.9%. Hepatic enzymes returned to normal within weeks after discontinuation. Further research is needed on CBD's long-term effects and safety.
Law enforcement use subjective tactics to detect marijuana impairment, but these methods have limited scientific basis. Scientists must get involved to develop reliable tools, and funding from legal marijuana sales could support research. A new perspective calls for a more evidence-based approach to road safety.