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Cannabis use could cause harmful drug interactions

New research suggests that cannabis use can lead to harmful drug-drug interactions by interfering with two families of enzymes that metabolize a wide range of drugs. This could result in unintended side effects such as toxicity or accidental overdose, particularly for older individuals using medications.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDrug Metabolism and Disposition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Cannabis use during pregnancy impacts the placenta and may affect subsequent child development

Research conducted by Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that cannabis exposure in utero can lead to higher levels of anxiety, aggression, and hyperactivity in children. Placental gene expression also shows lower immune-activating genes, predicting these outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Brain reveals the risk for developing obesity

A study at the University of Turku found that brain function regulating satiety and appetite is altered before obesity develops, with family background risk factors contributing to these changes. The findings suggest the brain and central nervous system are key targets for treating obesity.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 3, 2021

Lipid epoxides target pain, inflammatory pathways in neurons

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered modified compounds called epo-NA5HT and epo-NADA that target multiple cannabinoid receptors, interrupting pain and inflammation pathways. These lipid epoxides are much more potent than their precursor molecules and offer a promising alternative to opioid-based painkillers.

Screening strategy based on baseline breast density at age 40 may be effective and cost-effective for reducing breast cancer mortality

A mammography screening strategy based on a baseline breast density measure at age 40 is the most effective and cost-effective way to reduce breast cancer mortality. The study suggests that this approach can lead to a significant reduction in breast cancer mortality, but also increases the number of mammograms performed and false posit...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 8, 2021

Cannabinoids may affect activity of other pharmaceuticals

Penn State researchers identified 57 medications with a narrow therapeutic index that may be impacted by concomitant cannabinoid use. This list helps medical professionals make safe prescribing choices for patients using prescription or over-the-counter cannabinoids.

SourcePenn State·JournalMedical Cannabis and Cannabinoids·DateAug 3, 2020

An estimated 2 million people with heart disease have used marijuana, finds study

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.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 20, 2020

The Lancet Psychiatry: Insufficient evidence that medicinal cannabinoids improve mental health

A meta-analysis of 83 studies found inadequate evidence for the effectiveness of medicinal cannabinoids in relieving depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Tourette syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, or psychosis. Despite some low-quality evidence suggesting pharmaceutical THC may improve anxiety symptoms, the overall risks and ne...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateOct 28, 2019

Society of Cannabis Clinicians names Cannabis & Cannabinoid Research its official journal

The Society of Cannabis Clinicians has named Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research its official journal, expanding its mission to advance the understanding of medical cannabis. The partnership aims to promote rigorous clinical research on cannabis and disseminate new discoveries to practicing physicians and the scientific community.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCannabis and Cannabinoid Research·DateSep 6, 2019

Genetic analysis of cannabis is here

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a new method to analyze the genetic characteristics of cannabis strains, providing a powerful tool for addressing industry claims and concerns. The analysis reveals distinct gene networks orchestrating each strain's production of cannabinoids and terpenes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateMay 29, 2019

Male tobacco smokers have brain-wide reduction of CB1 receptors

A study found that frequent tobacco smokers had a nearly 20% decrease in CB1 receptors across the brain, similar to previous findings in cannabis and alcohol abuse. This reduction may be associated with addiction and could have negative effects on normal brain functions like memory and stress coping.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 15, 2018