Articles tagged with Cannabis
The guideline states that certain forms of medical marijuana in pill or oral spray form may help reduce patients' reported spasticity symptoms, pain due to spasticity, and frequent urination. However, long-term safety of medical marijuana use is not known, and potential side effects include seizures, dizziness, and psychological problems.
A Sam Houston State University study found that parents' substance use significantly increases the likelihood of their children using drugs. The study tracked 655 parents and 1,227 offspring over 27 years, revealing patterns of intergenerational drug use.
Research from The Netherlands found that high-potency cannabis users still take in more THC than lower potency smokers. Despite attempting to compensate by inhaling less smoke, titration efforts were only partially successful, resulting in roughly half of the THC strength being absorbed.
The study found cocaine use dropped sharply across the US from 2006 to 2010, while marijuana consumption increased significantly during the same period. Researchers also estimated that Americans spent over $100 billion annually on illicit drugs between 2000 and 2010.
Researchers identify cannabinoid receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a key emotional hub involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses. The discovery may help explain why marijuana users take the drug to reduce anxiety.
Patients with rheumatic conditions are turning to herbal cannabis for symptom relief, but medical evidence is lacking. The study advises healthcare providers to discourage patients from using this drug as therapy due to potential harm and availability of other therapies.
A study by New York University finds that high school seniors, normally at low risk for marijuana use, reported intention to try marijuana if legal. The researchers anticipate a 5.6% absolute increase in lifetime prevalence among this age group.
A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that states decriminalizing marijuana saw a dramatic increase in children requiring medical intervention at emergency rooms. High-dose edible products containing tetrahydrocannabinol were identified as a significant contributor to these incidents.
Non-alcohol drug prevalence in fatally injured drivers has increased significantly, particularly for marijuana, which tripled in 10-year period, according to Columbia University researchers studying toxicological testing data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
A new study reveals that hempseed oil contains a variety of substances promoting good health, including sterols, aliphatic alcohols, and linolenic acids. The oil's omega-3 fatty acid content may help prevent coronary heart disease.
Studies conducted by University of Tennessee researchers found a strong link between alcohol consumption and increased risk of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse in intimate partner relationships. In contrast, marijuana use was not associated with an increased risk of violence. The findings suggest that domestic violence prevent...
A study published in the EMBO Journal found that cannabis consumption during pregnancy can lead to defective nerve cell development, affecting higher cognitive functions and memory formation. The study identified THC as a key contributor to these developmental deficits.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found a wide range of dangers associated with synthetic marijuana use. The substance has been linked to altered mental status, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and breathing difficulties, resulting in over 263 emergency room visits in Colorado alone.
Researchers found that adolescent rats exposed to THC experienced molecular changes and increased motivation to self-administer heroin in their adulthood offspring, highlighting potential long-term effects of marijuana use on future generations.
Researchers have identified a natural defence mechanism in the brain that prevents cannabis' harmful effects, opening doors to new treatment options for addiction. Pregnenolone, a hormone produced by the brain, blocks the activation of CB1 receptors, reducing intoxication's effects.
A new study by RAND Corporation estimates Washington state marijuana consumption to be about twice as large as previously thought, ranging from 135 to 225 metric tons in 2013. The analysis used federal data and a survey of marijuana users to improve upon previous estimates.
Researchers at Northwestern University found that heavy marijuana users had abnormal changes in their brain structures related to working memory, performing poorly on memory tasks. The study suggests that chronic marijuana use may contribute to changes in brain structure associated with schizophrenia and potentially impair motivation.
Small labs are setting up to analyze medical marijuana products for potency, purity and safety. They also check for mold, mildew, microbial contamination, pesticides and solvents.
Researchers at University of South Carolina discover THC influences microRNAs, altering gene expression and potentially treating arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. The study identifies specific microRNA targets for controlling inflammation and immune response.
A recent study found that cannabis use among adolescents is stable or increasing in developing countries, unlike richer nations where it's declining. The research suggests that socioeconomic factors may play a role in shaping cannabis use patterns among young people.
Researchers discovered that Δ9-THC causes an increase in COX-2 levels, leading to memory impairments. Taking an over-the-counter painkiller like ibuprofen can prevent these side effects by inhibiting COX-2 levels.
Two healthy young siblings experienced acute ischemic strokes soon after smoking synthetic marijuana, highlighting the risks of this illicit drug. The study urges physicians to be aware of the potentially toxic effects of recreational synthetic drugs and to ask about pot and spice use in patients.
Research reveals that regular cannabis users exhibit increased impulsive behavior, impaired critical thinking skills, and reduced executive function, while cocaine users show heightened impulsivity and decreased impulse control. Long-term use of both substances may trigger addictive behaviors due to altered brain function.
A systematic review of 36 studies found that truck drivers frequently use substances like alcohol, amphetamines, cannabis, and cocaine while on the road. The prevalence varies widely depending on factors such as age, income, trip duration, and work conditions.
A study of 29,054 high school seniors found that those who use marijuana are less judgmental of other socially acceptable drugs like LSD and amphetamine. Conversely, youths from urban areas and those with strong religious beliefs tend to disapprove of harder drugs like cocaine and heroin.
Tel Aviv University researchers discover that compounds found in marijuana can prevent inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, which is a hallmark of multiple sclerosis. The study uses mice with MS-like symptoms to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD and THC.
A new method developed by researchers could help diagnose and treat thousands of young adults and teens who end up in emergency rooms after taking synthetic marijuana. The study found significant differences in how individuals' bodies process the drugs, which could explain why some people experience more severe effects.
The global supply of illicit drugs has likely not been reduced in the past two decades, with street prices falling and purity/potency increasing. This study analyzed data from seven international surveillance systems to conclude that law enforcement efforts are failing to curb supply and contribute to violence and public health issues.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine studied 589 adults and found no association between marijuana frequency and health status, healthcare utilization, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, or medical diagnoses.
Researchers at the University of Montreal found that cannabis use during adolescence is associated with increased risk of addiction and mental health problems. The study suggests that specific genetic and behavioral factors influence an individual's likelihood of developing a dependence on cannabis.
A study of 12,000 young Swiss men found that those who consume addictive substances like alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis are more likely to seek information on these topics. Despite this, prevention campaigns may not be effective due to the complexity of individual knowledge and behaviors.
Researchers found that marijuana use in adolescence can lead to impaired cognitive abilities and abnormal brain activity, persisting into adulthood. The study suggests a critical period of development during adolescence where marijuana exposure can have lasting effects on brain function and cognition.
A study published in International Journal of Drug Policy found a significant increase in cannabis psychosis hospital admissions following cannabis reclassification in 2009. The study challenges the government's claim that stronger forms of cannabis cause mental health problems.
A 5-year study at Drexel University's School of Public Health aims to investigate the impact of medical marijuana on young adults' physical and psychological health. The study, funded by a $3.3 million NIH grant, will recruit 380 participants and explore the effects of dispensaries on health outcomes.
Researchers found lower dopamine levels in long-term cannabis users compared to non-users, suggesting a possible link between cannabis use and motivation issues. The study also suggests that cannabis use may be the cause of altered dopamine systems, which could explain increased risk of mental illnesses like schizophrenia.
A recent study by the USDA Forest Service's Pacific Southwest Research Station reveals that female fishers living near areas with high concentrations of illegal marijuana sites have higher exposure to rodenticides and lower survival rates. The study's findings underscore the urgent need for regulating pesticide use in these areas.
A new study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found a significant increase in unintentional ingestions of marijuana by children since Colorado's drug laws modification in 2009. The number of children treated for exposure to marijuana increased from zero before 2009 to 588 after October 1, 2009.
A study found an increase in unintentional marijuana ingestions among children following Colorado's new drug laws, with most cases involving medical marijuana products. The authors recommend public health interventions and increased awareness among healthcare providers to mitigate this issue.
Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics reveals that college students who use both tobacco and marijuana smoke more cigarettes per month than users of tobacco only. The study also found that concurrent marijuana and tobacco use is associated with increased risk of smoking more tobacco.
Researchers from CAMH found that people with mental illnesses are more than seven times more likely to use cannabis weekly compared to those without a mental illness. The study also shows that individuals with mental illness were 10 times more likely to have a cannabis use disorder.
A new University of Iowa study suggests that deployment of a parent puts children at an increased risk for drinking alcohol and using drugs. The study found a three-to-four-fold increase in binge drinking among children of deployed or recently returned military parents compared to non-military families.
Research reveals that marijuana use among Russian HIV-infected individuals with risky drinking habits is associated with increased sharing of needles, multiple sexual partners, and unprotected sex. This finding may help clinicians identify those at higher risk of transmitting HIV.
A cross-sectional study found that around 1 in 10 young teens with mental health issues also drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, and use cannabis on a weekly basis. The prevalence of this pattern of substance use increases with age and is linked to poorer mental and physical health outcomes.
Two articles debate causal link between cannabis and psychotic illnesses like schizophrenia. David Castle argues for a causal link, while Suzanne Gage et al suggest stronger evidence is needed.
A brain imaging study found that THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, reduces the emotional reaction to pain but does not reduce the intensity of pain. The study suggests that individual responses to cannabis-based pain relief may vary greatly.
The Monitoring the Future survey reveals that 6.5% of high school seniors smoke marijuana daily, while perception of marijuana's harmfulness is down among teens, signaling future increases in use. Long-term NIH-funded study shows a significant drop in IQ between ages 13-38 for those who used cannabis heavily in their teens.
Longitudinal study of adolescents with heavy substance use histories found reduced white-matter integrity compared to those who abstained. This compromise may impair cognitive processing, memory, attention, and decision-making.
A recent review of cannabis extract, Sativex, found limited trial data and a lack of comparison to other treatments, casting doubt on its effectiveness for managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. The review also highlighted the high cost of Sativex compared to other MS medications.
A study of 16,882 adolescents and young adults found binge eating associated with incident overweight/obesity, worsening depressive symptoms, and onset of marijuana and other drug use. Overeating without loss of control was linked to marijuana use but not frequent binge drinking.
Researchers found that students with high levels of family social capital and low levels of school social capital were less likely to have used marijuana or alcohol. This suggests that parental involvement is crucial in shaping children's decisions about substance use.
A recent CAMH Monitor survey found that 9% of young adults in Ontario drive after using cannabis, compared to 6% who drive after drinking. The survey also revealed declining rates of non-medical opioid use and increasing concerns around mental health.
Researchers found that cannabis users with schizophrenia have higher brain activity and correct answers than those without prior cannabis use. The study suggests that cannabis use can imitate the cognitive weakness leading to schizophrenia in non-psychotic individuals.
Researchers report on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CH), a little-known but costly effect of marijuana use, characterized by cyclic nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. CH can lead to expensive diagnostic tests and ineffective treatments, with some patients requiring multiple hospital visits and costing up to $30,000 in workups.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that certain cannabis withdrawal symptoms are more strongly associated with relapse than others. Participants experiencing physical tension, sleep problems, and anxiety were more likely to relapse during the abstinence period and consumed more cannabis afterwards.
Researchers at UCI found compounds that inhibit enzymes blocking endocannabinoid transmitters, which can help correct behavioral issues related to fragile X syndrome. The study suggests a new approach for treating anxiety and cognitive defects in people with the condition.
A new study found a potential link between recreational marijuana use and an increased risk of developing subtypes of testicular cancer. The research suggests that marijuana may trigger carcinogenesis in the testis through the endocannabinoid system.
A longitudinal study of over 1,000 New Zealanders found that persistent cannabis use before age 18 led to significant declines in IQ, attention, and memory. The study suggests that adolescence is a critical period for brain development and vulnerability to substance-induced harm.
Research warns that highly potent marijuana and synthetic marijuana pose a real threat to pregnant women's unborn children. These substances contain high levels of THC, which can interfere with brain development as early as two weeks after conception.
A recent study by University of Colorado researchers found that 73.8% of adolescents in substance abuse treatment used medical marijuana recommended to someone else. Regular use of medical marijuana began at a younger age among these patients, and they had more severe symptoms of marijuana abuse and conduct disorder.
Research in rural British Columbia found that nearly two percent of teens have traded sex for substances like marijuana or other drugs. The study also discovered that trading sex was associated with higher rates of binge drinking among students.