Articles tagged with Cannabis
A recent Rhode Island Hospital study found no statistically significant difference in adolescent marijuana use between Rhode Island and Massachusetts after the state's medical marijuana legalization in 2006. The study of over 32,570 students from 1997 to 2009 suggests that concerns about increased youth use may be unfounded.
Research by University of Bristol neuroscientists found that cannabis disrupts coordinated brain waves, leading to impaired decision-making and memory. The study suggests that 'disorchestrated brains' may contribute to psychiatric diseases like schizophrenia.
Researchers have sequenced the DNA of a potent marijuana strain and compared it to hemp, revealing the genetic differences that lead to marijuana's psychoactive effects. The study found that domestication and breeding of marijuana strains resulted in the loss of an enzyme responsible for producing non-psychoactive compounds.
Researchers sequenced Hemp (Cannabis sativa) genome, revealing the genetic changes that led to marijuana's psychoactive properties. The study suggests domestication and breeding of marijuana strains resulted in the loss of an enzyme competing with THCA production.
A meta-analysis of nine epidemiologic studies found that marijuana use by drivers significantly increases the risk of car accidents. Drivers who test positive for marijuana or report driving within three hours of use are more than twice as likely to be involved in crashes.
Researchers at Temple University found that cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound in marijuana, can prevent the onset of neuropathic pain caused by chemotherapy drugs. The study's lead author notes that cannabidiol may be an effective therapeutic for breast cancer patients experiencing debilitating pain.
Researchers found that administering synthetic marijuana helps block PTSD-like symptoms in rats after experiencing trauma. The study suggests a 'window of opportunity' for treatment, which may be longer for humans due to their lifespan.
A study of college athletes and non-athletes found that athletes tend to use marijuana for recreational purposes, whereas non-athletes often use it to cope with stress. However, male athletes who continued to use marijuana during their competitive season reported more anxiety and negative mood.
Researchers found that a brief conversation with an adult led to significant reductions in marijuana use among teenagers who frequently used the drug. The program, called Teen Marijuana Check-Up, was shown to decrease usage by up to 20% over a year, setting a promising model for schools and counselors.
A recent study found that about 25% of drivers who died in crashes tested positive for drugs, with marijuana and stimulants being the most common. The study suggests that while other drugs contribute to road deaths, alcohol remains the largest contributor to fatal crashes.
Researchers used molecular imaging to visualize changes in the brains of heavy marijuana smokers versus non-smokers, finding a decreased number of cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Chronic cannabis smoking caused downregulation of these receptors, but they returned to normal when subjects stopped smoking.
A study of Aboriginal youth in Canada found they use tobacco, illicit drugs, and alcohol at higher rates than non-Aboriginal youth, leading to increased health risks. The research highlights the need for culturally appropriate smoking cessation and substance prevention programs targeting Aboriginal youth.
A recent study by University of Western Ontario researchers has identified a critical brain pathway responsible for the effects of cannabinoid drugs on emotional processing. The findings suggest that activating cannabinoid receptors in the amygdala region can significantly impact emotional information and memory processes.
Researchers found that people who used marijuana performed significantly worse in attention, speed of thinking, executive function, and visual perception, with some scoring approximately one third lower than non-users. The study suggests that prolonged marijuana use may add to the cognitive burden already experienced by MS patients.
A Vanderbilt study found that exercise significantly reduced cannabis cravings and use in heavy users. Participants who engaged in 10-30 minute treadmill sessions for two weeks saw a 50% decrease in cravings and average daily use dropped from 5.9 joints to 2.8 joints.
A recent review by Dr. Rany Shamloul reveals a potential link between cannabis use and negative impacts on male sexual health and performance. Cannabis may have an antagonizing effect on receptors in the penis, making it harder to achieve and maintain erections.
A recent study found that the federal anti-drug campaign 'Above the Influence' successfully reduced marijuana use among teenagers by 12 percentage points compared to those who had not seen the campaign. The researchers believe this is the first independent study to find evidence for the effectiveness of the campaign.
A new meta-analysis of over 20,000 patients shows that cannabis use is associated with an earlier onset of psychotic illness by up to 2.7 years, with possible life-long consequences for brain development and mental health outcomes.
A meta-analysis of 83 studies suggests that cannabis users develop psychosis about 2.7 years younger than non-users. The study supports the view that cannabis precipitates schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, potentially through genetic and environmental interactions or disrupting brain development.
A study of 1,106 Mexican heritage youth found that perceived ethnic discrimination and acculturation stress increase with age and lead to higher risks of alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana use. The study suggests that prevention programs should address discrimination and encourage effective coping strategies for young people.
A new study reveals that cannabis triggers unique immune cells called myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which promote cancer growth. MDSCs actively suppress the immune system, making users more susceptible to infections and certain types of cancers.
A study found that having an incarcerated father is associated with substantially elevated risks of marijuana and other illegal drug use in adolescence and early adulthood. Young people with incarcerated fathers also exhibited elevated trajectories of marijuana usage, extending into their mid-twenties.
A review of published papers and professional guidelines highlights the challenges healthcare professionals face when caring for patients who use medicinal cannabis. The study suggests that nurses need ongoing support and guidance to provide the best care while respecting patients' rights.
Research from the University of New Hampshire suggests that marijuana use may not lead to illicit drug abuse in young adulthood as previously thought. The study found that life factors such as employment status and stress play a stronger role in determining illicit drug use. In fact, the strongest predictor of illicit drug use is race/...
A randomized controlled trial found smoked cannabis significantly reduces chronic pain intensity, improving sleep quality and anxiety levels. The study used three different potencies of THC and a placebo, with the highest THC level showing the most significant benefits.
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal finds that low doses of inhaled cannabis containing THC offer modest pain reduction and improved moods in patients with chronic neuropathic pain. The study suggests that medical cannabis may be a viable alternative for patients who have not responded to standard therapies.
Legalizing marijuana in California could lead to a significant drop in prices, with estimates suggesting a reduction of up to 80%. This, in turn, could result in increased consumption as prices fall below those ever studied. The magnitude of the consumption increase is uncertain, but researchers predict it could be substantial.
A study of 3,801 young adults found that those who used cannabis for six or more years were twice as likely to develop non-affective psychosis. The longer duration since first cannabis use was associated with higher risk of psychosis-related outcomes.
Researchers have found a proton channel in sperm cells that allows them to rid themselves of excess protons when resting, enabling their movement in the female reproductive tract. This finding may lead to new ways of controlling male fertility and potentially even male contraception.
Researchers found that students who listen to music with more references to marijuana are nearly twice as likely to have used the drug. The study suggests a real link between marijuana lyrics and use, but notes that other high-risk behaviors were not associated with increased exposure.
A recent study found that genetic factors contribute to both alcohol and marijuana use, with shared genetic influences contributing to dependence symptoms. The research used a large annual survey of high-school students and found strong evidence for a genetic component to marijuana use and dependence.
A systematic review found that cannabis extracts reduced spasticity and improved mobility in multiple sclerosis patients. The study suggests that combined THC and CBD extracts may provide therapeutic benefits for MS spasticity symptoms.
A comprehensive analysis of 17 studies involving over 35,000 participants found a strong, reliable link between parental monitoring and reduced marijuana use in adolescents. Female-only studies showed the strongest effects.
A new UK study found that heavy cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia in young people. To prevent one case of schizophrenia, it would be necessary to stop around 2,800 male and 5,000 female heavy users, or over 10,000 and 30,000 light users, respectively.
A review estimates that 166 million adults worldwide aged 15-64 years used cannabis in 2006, despite the risks of its adverse effects on health. Regular cannabis smokers report more symptoms of chronic bronchitis and cognitive impairments, while cannabis use is associated with poor educational attainment.
The study found that teenage girls' attitudes toward smoking influenced their use of multiple substances, while boys were more likely to engage in poly-drug use if they perceived smoking as prevalent in their age group. Both boys and girls reported higher rates of poly-drug use when friends drank or smoked.
A population-based study found that initiating cholinesterase inhibitor therapy for dementia increases the risk of hospitalization for bradycardia by over doubling. Meanwhile, a separate team led by Louisa Degenhardt examines cannabis use as a risk factor for psychosis and proposes its inclusion in global burden of disease estimates.
University of Minnesota researchers identified genes producing THC, a psychoactive substance in marijuana, to create a drug-free Cannabis plant for hemp fiber and oil. The study also aims to develop new pain and nausea treatments.
A recent study found that the type 1 cannabinoid receptor is key to bone development and osteoporosis. Cannabis may reduce bone strength in young people but protect against osteoporosis in older age.
Scientists discovered that endocannabinoids in the human body can disable brakes on pain signals, leading to prolonged chronic pain. In contrast, THC from cannabis may worsen toothaches, but could alleviate neuropathic pain.
Researchers find marijuana smoke causes more cell damage and DNA harm than tobacco smoke, but doesn't cause chromosome damage. The study provides new insights into marijuana's potential health risks and challenges common perceptions about its relative safety.
A new study found that cannabis smoke damages DNA in ways that could potentially increase the risk of cancer development. The research, published in Chemical Research in Toxicology, used a highly sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method to detect damage.
A new study published in Clinical Nursing Research found that marijuana use is common among HIV/AIDS patients in the US to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and nausea. The study suggests that therapeutic marijuana use merits further consideration among policy makers, despite potential risks associated with its use.
A third of teens using cannabis regularly use it as a medication to relieve health problems such as depression, anxiety and sleep difficulties. The study found that cannabis provided immediate relief without the unpleasant side effects of prescribed medications.
Scientists discovered brain proteins bind to and activate THC receptors, similar to marijuana, sparking hope for new treatments for pain, appetite stimulation, and reduced marijuana abuse. The study may lead to effective drugs with fewer side effects.
Smoking both marijuana and tobacco significantly increases respiratory symptoms and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk. A study of 878 adults aged 40 or older found that those who smoked both substances were 2.5 times more likely to have respiratory symptoms and almost 3 times more likely to have COPD.
Patients with schizophrenia can correctly identify a 'hollow mask' illusion, which may be related to their brains disconnecting visual information from internal thoughts. The study also found that cannabis users are less deceived by the illusion, suggesting a possible link between THC and brain connectivity.
Researchers have identified a connection between daily cannabis consumption and the appearance of psychosis and schizophrenia in subjects with good premorbid performance. The study found that 66% of patients with normal neurodevelopment admitted to daily cannabis use, while 43% of those with abnormal neurodevelopment also used cannabis.
Researchers have identified a novel syndrome associated with chronic cannabis abuse, characterized by severe vomiting sickness. The syndrome was first recognized in Australia and is believed to be caused by years of marijuana use, leading to increased cases worldwide.
A new Université de Montréal study found that thrill-seeking young men are more likely to drive under the influence of cannabis and engage in reckless driving. The study, which analyzed data from 83 male participants, discovered that 30% of cannabis users reported at least one incidence of reckless driving in the previous 12 months.
A study by researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that frequent and/or long-term marijuana use is associated with a 70% increased risk of testicular cancer. The risk was particularly elevated among men who used marijuana at least weekly and/or had long-term exposure to the substance beginning in adolescence.
A study of 93,297 15-year-olds across 31 countries found that those who frequently went out with friends were more likely to report using marijuana. The decline in marijuana use among adolescents may be attributed to a decrease in evenings spent out with friends.
Adolescents and young adults who are heavy users of marijuana are more likely to have disrupted brain development, according to a new study. The researchers found abnormalities in areas of the brain involved in memory, attention, decision-making, language, and executive functioning skills.
A recent study found that long-term exposure to marijuana can negatively affect human male fertility by increasing anandamide levels. Additionally, two papers investigate the effects of delayed fatherhood in mice, revealing abnormalities in offspring's behavior and reproductive fitness.
Scientists found that a synthetic THC-like drug can improve memory in aging rats by reducing inflammation and stimulating the formation of new brain cells. The study suggests that a safe, legal substance mimicking marijuana's properties could help prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease.
A study published in Liver International found that Canadian liver transplant centres are more willing to consider patients who smoke marijuana, while US programmes say no, highlighting the need for evidence-based eligibility criteria.
Research finds that marijuana use during adolescence is associated with poorer performance on thinking tasks, including slower psychomotor speed and poorer complex attention, verbal memory, and planning ability. Chronic heavy use is linked to abnormal brain activation and impaired cognitive functioning even after a month of abstinence.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine conducted a double-blind clinical trial to assess the impact of smoked medical cannabis on neuropathic pain in HIV patients. The study showed that reported pain relief was greater with cannabis than with a placebo.
A study by Emory University researchers found that black girls who use marijuana have significantly higher rates of incident STDs than non-users. Marijuana users also had more sex partners and riskier sex acts, including those with recently released jail partners.
Researchers are investigating new strategies for targeting the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain relief and treating conditions like obesity and nicotine addiction. These studies aim to develop new drugs that can selectively target cannabinoid receptors without causing psychoactive side effects.