A review of nine studies found recreational cannabis legalization was generally associated with increased cannabis use disorder prevalence, but treatment admissions did not increase and actually declined overall during the study periods.
Policymakers and treatment providers in states considering or implementing cannabis legalization
9 studies reviewed
What the researchers found
Findings generally showed increased CUD prevalence associated with legalization, but effects varied by age group. Despite more CUD, there was no significant association between legalization and treatment admissions, and CUD-related treatment admissions decreased overall during study periods.
Why it matters
The paradox of rising CUD prevalence but declining treatment admissions raises important questions. It may reflect normalization of use, reduced perception of harm, or barriers to accessing treatment in a legalized environment.
The numbers in context
9 studies reviewed from 2016-2022; CUD prevalence generally increased with legalization; treatment admissions decreased overall; effects varied by age group
How the study worked
Narrative review of nine studies published 2016-2022 examining recreational cannabis laws and either CUD prevalence or cannabis treatment admissions in the United States.
What this study cannot tell us
Only nine studies available, limiting conclusions. Varied methodologies across studies. State-level differences in legalization implementation make comparisons difficult. CUD diagnostic criteria may capture different severity levels.
How to read the evidence
Narrative review with limited number of available studies and methodological heterogeneity
When this study was published
2023 study
The bigger picture
As more states legalize recreational cannabis, monitoring problematic use and ensuring treatment access becomes critical. The decline in treatment admissions despite rising CUD suggests a growing treatment gap.
Questions still open
- Why are treatment admissions declining when CUD is increasing? Are treatment barriers different in legalized states? Does legalization change what motivates people to seek treatment?
Common questions
Does legalizing cannabis lead to more addiction?
Are more people seeking help for cannabis problems after legalization?
Read the original research
Assessing the Impact of Recreational Cannabis Legalization on Cannabis Use Disorder and Admissions to Treatment in the United States.
Current addiction reports, 10(2), 198-209
Citation
Aletraris, Lydia; Graves, Brian D; Ndung'u, Joyce J. (2023). Assessing the Impact of Recreational Cannabis Legalization on Cannabis Use Disorder and Admissions to Treatment in the United States.. Current addiction reports, 10(2), 198-209. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-023-00470-x