Two Months of Daily Cannabis Use Did Not Damage Immune Function in Healthy Adults
Twelve adults smoked cannabis daily for 64 days under hospital observation. Immune function markers remained normal or improved throughout the study period.
Harm Reduction research
Explore published research on harm reduction, including study methods and limitations.
Injecting Cannabis Tea Intravenously Caused Life-Threatening Reactions in Four Teenagers
Four youths injected boiled cannabis-seed tea intravenously. All developed shock, organ damage, and bleeding. All survived but the reactions were potentially fatal.
Secondhand Cannabis Smoke Produced Detectable THC in Blood and Urine of Non-Smokers
Five cannabis-naive volunteers tested positive for THC in blood and urine after 30 minutes of passive exposure to cannabis smoke in a closed car.
A Cancer Patient Developed a Dangerous Lung Fungal Infection Possibly Linked to Contaminated Marijuana
A cancer patient developed a dangerous lung fungal infection while using illicitly obtained marijuana during chemotherapy, highlighting contamination risks for immunocompromised users.
All Recreational Drugs Including Marijuana Enter Breast Milk and Can Affect Nursing Infants
All four common recreational substances (alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, marijuana) enter breast milk and can affect both milk production and the nursing infant.
Saliva and Forehead Sweat Could Detect Recent Cannabis Use in Impaired Drivers
THC was detectable in saliva (64%) and forehead sweat (73%) of cannabis-positive injured drivers, offering non-invasive alternatives that better indicate recent use than urine testing.
A Metabolite Found Only in Natural Marijuana Can Distinguish It From Prescription THC in Drug Tests
THCV-COOH, a urinary metabolite unique to natural marijuana, reliably distinguished marijuana use from prescription Marinol use in a controlled crossover study.
Could a Passionflower Compound Help with Cannabis Withdrawal?
Animal study showing a compound from passionflower reduced THC tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms in mice, suggesting potential for cannabis withdrawal treatment.
Lancet Review Examines Three Cannabis-Cancer Links: Causing, Fighting, and Treating Cancer Symptoms
Lancet Oncology review examined cannabis-cancer relationships across three dimensions: inconsistent evidence for causing cancer, mixed lab results for fighting cancer, and positive evidence for managing cancer symptoms.
Finnish Perspective on Drug-Impaired Driving Finds Cannabis Among Top Substances Detected
European review found illicit drug prevalence of 1-5% among drivers, with cannabis among the top substances of concern. Discussed evolving detection technologies and zero-tolerance versus impairment-based legal approaches.
Secondhand Cannabis Smoke Only Causes Positive Oral Fluid Tests When Samples Are Collected in Smoky Environment
Two studies in an unventilated van found passive cannabis smoke exposure only caused positive oral fluid tests when samples were collected in the smoky environment. Samples collected outside were all negative.
Historical Review: Cannabis Medicine Has Thousands of Years of History But Modern Clinical Research Is Just Beginning
Review found that despite thousands of years of medicinal use, clinical cannabis research remained in its infancy, with studies hampered by small sizes, poor controls, and inconsistent formulations.
Marijuana Smoking Causes Airway Inflammation and Cell Changes But Evidence for COPD and Lung Cancer Remains Limited
Review found marijuana smoking causes airway inflammation, chronic cough, and precancerous cell changes, but epidemiological evidence for COPD and lung cancer remained limited and inconsistent.
Reducing Heroin Use Did Not Lead to Increased Use of Other Drugs Including Cannabis
Two-year study of 615 heroin users found reducing heroin use was associated with decreased use of most other drugs, not substitution. Cannabis and alcohol use were independent of heroin changes.
Comprehensive Review of Oral Fluid Drug Testing: THC Detection Complicated by Mouth Absorption
Review of oral fluid drug testing found THC detection is complicated by depot effects from mouth absorption after smoking, temporarily inflating concentrations above blood-comparable levels.
Hair Tests Revealed Widespread Drug Use Underreporting, But Hair Is Less Sensitive for Cannabis Than Cocaine
Comparison of drug detection methods found dramatic underreporting of drug use versus hair analysis results. Cocaine detection by hair was excellent; cannabis detection required specialized metabolite analysis.
Study Identifies THC Blood Levels of 2-5 ng/ml as the Threshold Where Driving Impairment Begins
Controlled study of 20 cannabis users found impairment began at 2-5 ng/ml serum THC, with 75-90% impaired at 5-10 ng/ml and 100% above 30 ng/ml, providing a framework for driving limits.
Medical Cannabis Users Preferred Higher-THC, Higher-Humidity Product in Quality Assessment Trial
Small crossover trial found medical cannabis users could distinguish between preparations and preferred highest THC, humidity, and grind size, informing clinical trial product design.
Review of Case Reports Linking Marijuana to Heart Attacks, Arrhythmias, and Vascular Problems
Review of case reports found evidence linking marijuana to heart rhythm problems, heart attacks, and vascular complications, with increasing concern for aging long-term users.
Occasional Cannabis Use Was Linked to Staying in Opioid Addiction Treatment Longer
Opioid-dependent patients who used cannabis intermittently during naltrexone treatment stayed 133 days vs 35 days for abstainers or consistent users, replicating a previous finding.
Many Medical Cannabis Patients Used It as a Substitute for Alcohol, Prescription Drugs, or Illicit Drugs
Among 350 medical cannabis patients, 66% used cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs, 40% for alcohol, and 26% for illicit drugs, citing fewer side effects and better symptom control.
Could Changing the THC/CBD Ratio in Cannabis Reduce Its Harms?
A commentary argued for harm reduction through product composition changes, specifically reducing THC and increasing CBD in cannabis to lower psychosis and addiction risks.
Patients in heroin maintenance programs used less illicit heroin than those on methadone
Urine testing showed lower illicit heroin co-use in heroin maintenance (50%) versus methadone maintenance (71%), while cannabis use stayed high in both.
Growing evidence that cannabis could reduce reliance on prescription opiates for chronic pain
Review finding cannabis enhanced opiate pain relief, prevented tolerance, and potentially reduced opiate dependence, positioning it as a harm-reduction strategy.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: When Heavy Cannabis Use Causes Severe Vomiting
Four patients with chronic cannabis use developed recurring severe vomiting and compulsive hot bathing, all resolving when they stopped using cannabis.
GPs Screen for Cannabis Problems More Than Nurses, but Both Face Barriers
GPs screened for cannabis problems more than nurses, but both groups reported barriers including time, skills, and uncertainty about their role.
What Works for Treating Substance Dependence: Medications Available for Some Drugs but Not Cannabis
Review found effective medications for nicotine, alcohol, and opioid dependence, but none approved for cannabis or cocaine dependence.
First Combined Tobacco-Cannabis Quit Program Developed and Well-Received by Participants
First group cessation program for simultaneous tobacco and cannabis quitting was developed through user research and received positive acceptability ratings.
Marijuana Had an Even Larger Negative Effect on Teen Dental Health Than Tobacco
Eight-year study of 67,000 Nevada teens found marijuana use had a larger negative impact on dental health than tobacco, increasing cavity prevalence and severity.
Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and the Growing Risk From Edibles
Review of marijuana poisoning in dogs found most cases resolve with supportive care, but concentrated THC edibles pose serious risks with reported fatalities.
Synthetic Cannabinoid "Spice" Products Sent Six Patients to the ER With Seizures and Hallucinations
Six ER patients after Spice use showed tachycardia, seizures, and hallucinations, highlighting that synthetic cannabinoids are more dangerous than natural cannabis.
Haloperidol Successfully Treated Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in the Emergency Department
A case of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome unresponsive to standard antiemetics improved significantly with haloperidol, suggesting a new treatment option.
Brief ER Interventions for Youth Drug Use Showed Mostly Inconclusive Results
Systematic review of 9 trials found mostly inconclusive evidence for ER-based brief interventions reducing youth substance use, with some promising MI findings.
What Australian police seizures reveal about cannabis potency and CBD levels
Analysis of 232 cannabis samples seized in Australia found high average THC (14.88%) and nearly absent CBD (0.14%), confirming global trends toward high-potency, low-CBD cannabis.
Comprehensive review of synthetic cannabinoids: far more potent and dangerous than THC
Comprehensive review found synthetic cannabinoids are 2-100x more potent than THC, producing severe adverse effects including psychosis, kidney failure, and cardiac events.
A European school drug prevention program worked through changing attitudes and norms, but weakly
The Unplugged program reduced youth substance use across 7 European countries by modifying attitudes and norms, though the mediating effects were generally weak.
Critical review found little evidence that Project TND prevents drug use
Critical review of seven evaluations found little evidence that the widely used Project TND school prevention program effectively reduces cigarette, alcohol, or marijuana use.
Swedish emergency rooms detected over 50 different new psychoactive substances including synthetic cannabinoids
Swedish monitoring detected over 50 different new psychoactive substances in emergency patients, predominantly young males, with synthetic cannabinoids among many diverse classes.
Dutch School-Based Drug Prevention Program Had No Effect on Teen Substance Use
A large Dutch randomized trial of the Healthy School and Drugs prevention program found no significant effects on adolescent alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana use at 32 months.
Internet-Based School Prevention Program Reduced Truancy and Psychological Distress in Teens
RCT of 764 students found the Climate Schools online prevention program reduced truancy, psychological distress, and moral disengagement for up to 12 months.
Australian Online Drug Prevention Program Was Well-Received by UK Teachers and Students
Pilot of the Australian Climate Schools online drug prevention program in 2 UK schools found 85% of students found it easy to understand and 82% of teachers would use it again.
Project TND: A School Program That Consistently Reduced Hard Drug Use Across Seven Trials
Review of 7 randomized trials found Project TND consistently reduced hard drug use in all trials, with less consistent effects on alcohol (4/7) and marijuana (2-3/7).
European School Program "Unplugged" Reduced Cannabis, Smoking, and Drunkenness in 7,000 Students
RCT of 7,079 students across 7 European countries found "Unplugged" reduced cannabis use, smoking, and drunkenness, with cannabis and alcohol effects persisting at 15 months.
Computer-Based Prevention Program Increased Drug Knowledge and Reduced Cannabis Use in Girls
RCT of 1,734 Australian students found a computer-based prevention program increased drug knowledge, decreased pro-drug attitudes, and reduced cannabis use frequency in females.
Cannabis was found in 1 in 10 crash-injured drivers in South Australia, but alcohol was the bigger problem
Analysis of 1,074 crash-injured drivers in South Australia found alcohol was the dominant substance, and over a third of cannabis-positive drivers were also heavily intoxicated with alcohol.
A group cessation program helped people quit both cannabis and tobacco at the same time
A group cessation program for 77 cannabis-tobacco co-smokers achieved 23% abstinence at 6-month follow-up, with improvements in mental health and substance use.
Butane hash oil production burns surged in Colorado after marijuana liberalization
29 burn patients admitted to a Colorado burn center from homemade butane hash oil extraction, with cases increasing sharply after marijuana liberalization.
Non-smokers exposed to secondhand cannabis smoke tested positive for THC in blood and oral fluid for up to 3 hours
Non-smokers sealed in a room with cannabis smokers for one hour tested positive for THC in blood and oral fluid for up to 3 hours and reported feeling mild subjective effects.
Secondhand cannabis smoke rarely caused positive urine tests at standard cutoffs, but did at lower thresholds
Under extreme sealed-room conditions, secondhand cannabis smoke caused positive urine tests at 20 ng/mL cutoffs but rarely at the standard 50 ng/mL workplace threshold.
Drivers positive for both alcohol and cannabis had higher crash risk than those positive for either substance alone
US fatal crash data (1991-2008) showed combined alcohol and THC increased unsafe driving odds beyond either substance alone, with prevalence rising five-fold over the period.
Independent evaluations of school drug prevention programs found almost no evidence they work
Systematic review found only 3 of 42 outcome measures showed significant effects across 6 independently evaluated RCTs of school drug prevention programs, with only one program effective.
Room ventilation dramatically reduced secondhand cannabis smoke effects on cognition, mood, and drug test results
Ventilation at 11 air changes per hour eliminated all measurable secondhand cannabis effects (drug tests, sedation, cognitive impairment) that occurred under unventilated sealed-room conditions.
How Marijuana Smoke Affects Lung Function in U.S. Adults
Large U.S. survey found up to 20 joint-years of marijuana use did not impair lung function. Heavier use altered airflow patterns, but differently from tobacco-related lung disease.
Older Adults Using Cannabis as a Safer Alternative to Other Drugs
Qualitative study found Baby Boomer cannabis users consciously substituted cannabis for alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substances, perceiving it as safer and less addictive.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: When Marijuana Causes the Vomiting It Usually Prevents
Clinical review of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a paradoxical condition where long-term marijuana use causes severe recurrent vomiting that resolves only with cannabis cessation.
Adding Cannabis to Tobacco Smoking Worsens Lung Health
Scottish study of 500 smokers found adding cannabis to tobacco was associated with worse respiratory symptoms and a small increase in COPD rates beyond tobacco alone.
Case Report: Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Treated with Lorazepam and Hot Showers
Case report of a 32-year-old man with 19 years of daily cannabis use who developed cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, successfully treated with lorazepam and hot showers.
Personality-Based School Programs Can Delay Cannabis Use in Sensation-Seeking Teens
School-based program targeting personality risk factors delayed cannabis use in high-risk teens, with sensation-seekers 75% less likely to start using over 24 months.
School Prevention Programs Work Differently for Kids with Different Risk Profiles
Randomized trial of 1,874 sixth-graders showed a universal prevention program reduced cannabis use across all risk levels, with the largest absolute effect for high-risk children.
Marijuana and Tobacco Co-Use Patterns Among African Americans
National survey found 28% of African American substance users used both marijuana and tobacco, with co-users showing higher marijuana dependence and earlier age of initiation.
The Economics of Cannabis Decriminalization: What Different Policy Models Cost
Economic analysis found repressive cannabis policies are costly without reducing use, while regulated legalization could cut enforcement costs and generate revenue without a consumption spike.
Young Adults Allow Marijuana Smoke in Their Homes More Than Cigarette Smoke
Survey of 2,002 college students found 17% allowed marijuana smoking in their homes versus 14.5% for cigarettes, with different social factors predicting each.
What Small-Scale Cannabis Growers Look Like Across 11 Countries
Survey of 6,530 cannabis growers across 11 countries found most grew for personal use, came from normal backgrounds, and had minimal involvement in other criminal activity.
Why Tobacco and Cannabis Use So Often Go Together
Review found tobacco and cannabis each promote dependence on the other through shared brain chemistry, common smoking route, and bidirectional gateway effects.
How to Sterilize Medical Cannabis for Immunocompromised Patients
Study identified sterilization methods for medical cannabis that eliminate dangerous mold contamination with minimal cannabinoid activity loss, protecting immunocompromised patients.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Takes Nearly 20 Months to Diagnose on Average
Ten CHS patients went nearly 20 months before diagnosis and were frequently misdiagnosed. All who resumed cannabis use relapsed, while abstainers remained symptom-free.
Is Vaping Cannabis Actually Better for Your Lungs Than Smoking It?
Vaping cannabis reduces toxic smoke exposure, but the lung health advantage over smoking may be smaller than the benefit e-cigarettes offer over tobacco.
Scientists Developed an Ultra-Sensitive Urine Test That Can Detect Even Secondhand Cannabis Smoke Exposure
A new urine test for cannabinoids achieved 10-100x greater sensitivity than existing methods, capable of detecting secondhand marijuana smoke exposure.
The Most Comprehensive Review of Medical Cannabis Evidence Found Modest Benefits for Pain, Spasticity, and Nausea
79 RCTs: strong signal for chemo nausea, but pain relief averaged under 0.5 points on a 0-10 scale.
How to Tell If Someone Was Passively Exposed to Cannabis Versus Actually Smoked It
A systematic review of 21 studies found that biomarker patterns in urine, blood, oral fluid, and hair can distinguish passive cannabis exposure from active use, though extreme exposure can trigger positive tests.
87% of Medical Cannabis Patients Report Using It as a Substitute for Prescription Drugs, Alcohol, or Illicit Substances
A survey of 473 Canadian medical cannabis patients found 87% used cannabis as a substitute for other substances, with 80% replacing prescription drugs, 52% replacing alcohol, and 33% replacing illicit substances.
An Addiction Team in the Emergency Department Helped Identify and Treat Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome
French pilot study shows a specialized addiction team in the ED identified 7 CHS cases in 7 months, with 5 of 7 patients entering addiction follow-up care.
School Drug Prevention Program Reduced Marijuana Use Among Brazilian Teens Aged 13-15
Brazilian school drug prevention program showed 85.7% of teen marijuana users in the intervention group stopped using, compared to 28.6% in controls.
Cannabis-Only Drug Users in the ER Had Less Severe Problems Than Users of Other Drugs
Study of 686 drug-using ED patients found cannabis-only users had lower severity than other drug users, but 19-29% still had problematic use, especially daily users who showed lower self-efficacy.
Cannabis-related emergency room visits increased significantly from 2004 to 2011, especially among teens
Cannabis-related emergency room visits in the US increased significantly from 2004 to 2011, with the steepest rises among adolescents and disproportionate representation of Black Americans.
Twelve elderly people accidentally ate marijuana cookies at a hemp workshop and ended up in the ER
Twelve elderly people accidentally ate marijuana cookies at a hemp food workshop, sending two to intensive care, though all recovered fully.
Heavy marijuana use was not associated with worse self-reported eyesight quality
Nationally representative study found no significant difference in self-reported eyesight quality between heavy marijuana users and light/non-users.
The only reliable way to distinguish cannabinoid hyperemesis from cyclic vomiting syndrome is to stop cannabis and see if symptoms resolve
Review finding that cannabinoid hyperemesis and cyclic vomiting syndromes are nearly identical in presentation, with complete symptom resolution after quitting cannabis being the only reliable differentiator.
Colorado healthcare providers felt unprepared to talk to patients about marijuana health risks after legalization
Survey of 114 Colorado providers found frequent marijuana screening but low confidence discussing specific health risks, highlighting gaps in medical education around cannabis legalization.
Marijuana use was strongly linked to driving after drinking and riding with drunk drivers among underage drinkers
Among underage drinkers in an ER sample, marijuana use more than doubled the odds of driving after drinking for females and significantly increased risk for males.
Cannabis users hospitalized for hyperemesis had dangerously low phosphate levels that resolved on their own within hours
Six cannabis users hospitalized for hyperemesis had dangerously low phosphate levels that resolved spontaneously in hours, possibly from hyperventilation-driven redistribution.
Three new synthetic cannabinoids caused seizures, aggression, and severe toxicity in mice at doses far lower than THC
Three new synthetic cannabinoids showed nanomolar potency and caused seizures, aggression, and neurotoxicity in mice, confirming their much greater danger compared to natural cannabis.
Cannabis use disorder diagnoses nearly tripled in US hospitals from 2002 to 2011, with patients getting older and sicker
Cannabis use disorder diagnoses in US hospitals nearly tripled from 2002-2011, with psychiatric disorders as the top comorbidity and patients trending older and sicker.
Marijuana smoke contains many of the same harmful compounds as tobacco smoke and affects the lungs
Pulmonology review showing marijuana smoke shares many harmful combustion products with tobacco smoke, affecting the respiratory tract of the estimated 2.5-5% of people who use cannabis globally.
A preschool child developed cannabinoid poisoning symptoms from hemp seed oil prescribed by a pediatrician
First reported case of cannabinoid poisoning from medically prescribed hemp seed oil in a preschool child, with neurological symptoms resolving after IV hydration.
Trauma patients who tested positive for any substance, including cannabis, had significantly higher rates of previous trauma
Trauma patients testing positive for substances including cannabis had 3.2 times the odds of having multiple previous traumas, suggesting substance use is a marker for recurring injury.
School connectedness and adult support reduced substance use among LGB youth in California
School connectedness and adult support reduced marijuana and other substance use among LGB youth in California, even after accounting for school victimization.
80% of Hispanic apartment residents experienced secondhand smoke infiltration, and many didn't know marijuana smoke is also harmful
80% of Hispanic apartment residents reported secondhand smoke infiltration, with 28% unaware that marijuana smoke is also harmful and 85% supporting building-wide smoking bans.
Denver researchers created a 95.7% accurate system for tracking marijuana-related ER visits in real time
Denver researchers developed a 95.7% accurate surveillance system for tracking marijuana-related ER visits in near-real time using 6 keywords and 5 diagnosis codes.
Topical capsaicin cream relieved cannabinoid hyperemesis symptoms in all 13 patients treated in the ER
All 13 ER patients with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome experienced symptom relief after topical capsaicin cream, even after other treatments failed.
Young men who tested positive for cannabis had more severe heart attacks and worse cardiac findings than drug-free patients
Young men with heart attacks who tested positive for cannabis had more severe presentations and worse coronary findings than drug-free patients, despite fewer traditional risk factors.
Review of illicit drugs and sudden death: marijuana-associated cardiac deaths are rare but documented
Review placing marijuana cardiac risk in context: scattered reports of sudden death exist, but the incidence is rare compared to cocaine and amphetamines.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is increasingly important as cannabis use grows and THC potency rises
Federal Practitioner review highlighting that cannabis legalization, increased use, and rising THC potency make cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome increasingly important to diagnose.
Growing evidence links marijuana use during pregnancy to lower birth weight, preterm birth, and impaired child brain development
Review finding growing evidence that prenatal marijuana exposure is associated with lower birth weight, preterm birth, and impaired neurodevelopment, with THC also found in breast milk.
Review argues cannabis safety evidence is insufficient to support legalization, highlighting harms to mood, cognition, and driving
Review arguing that cannabis harms mood, cognition, psychiatric health, and driving, and that public perception of low risk is unsupported by the scientific evidence.
Cannabis-associated arteritis patients with critical leg ischemia responded to conservative treatment, but few quit smoking
Conservative treatment improved critical leg ischemia in 23 patients with arteritis (8 cannabis-associated), but only 13% achieved smoking cessation.
First reported cases of capsaicin cream successfully treating cannabinoid hyperemesis in adolescents
First reported cases of capsaicin cream successfully treating cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in two adolescents after standard anti-nausea treatments failed.
What Happens When You Breathe in Someone Else's Marijuana Smoke
Systematic review of 15 studies finding secondhand marijuana smoke causes detectable cannabinoid metabolites, psychoactive effects, and eye irritation, with THC content and ventilation as key factors.
Young Adults in Colorado Judge Cannabis and Tobacco Harms Through Five Key Lenses
Qualitative study of 32 young adults in Colorado found they evaluate cannabis and tobacco risks through five lenses: combustion, potency, chemicals, addiction type, and information sources.
A CB1 Receptor Blocker Rapidly Reversed the Effects of Synthetic Cannabinoid Intoxication in Mice
Mouse study demonstrated that a CB1 receptor antagonist rapidly reversed synthetic cannabinoid intoxication effects, supporting the concept of a cannabinoid overdose antidote.
The Best Available Treatments for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Benzodiazepines, Haloperidol, and Capsaicin
Systematic review of 63 studies (205 patients) found benzodiazepines, haloperidol, and capsaicin most frequently effective for acute CHS, with hot showers universally helpful.
Cautioning Cannabis Offenders Instead of Arresting Them Costs Half as Much with No Difference in Use
Australian study found cannabis cautioning cost half as much as arrest ($388 vs. $733) with no difference in subsequent cannabis use, supporting diversion over criminalization.
The Most Comprehensive Systematic Review of CHS: 183 Studies, 14 Diagnostic Features, and Treatment Options
Systematic review of 183 studies establishing 14 diagnostic features of CHS, confirming cannabis cessation as the only cure and hot bathing relief in 92.3% of cases.
Haloperidol Successfully Treated 4 Cases of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome That Failed Standard ER Treatments
Four CHS patients who failed standard ER antiemetics improved significantly with haloperidol, suggesting dopamine-cannabinoid receptor interactions explain the treatment's effectiveness.
A culturally tailored HIV prevention program also reduced marijuana use among American Indian middle schoolers
A culturally tailored HIV prevention program reduced marijuana initiation risk by 17.3% among American Indian middle schoolers, though it did not reduce use frequency among initiators.
Most migraine patients using medical cannabis chose high-THC hybrid strains and many replaced opioids
Survey of 2,032 medical cannabis patients found 88% of headache patients had probable migraine, preferred high-THC hybrids, and 41-60% replaced prescriptions, most often opioids.
An online school program reduced teenagers' intentions to use synthetic cannabis for up to 2 years
Online school program reduced teenagers' intentions to use synthetic cannabis by 2 years, with controls 3.5x more likely to intend use, but only when all 4 lessons were completed.
A tailored web-based program helped young adults reduce their cannabis use
Web-based tailored intervention reduced cannabis use in 10.8% of young adults versus 5.1% in controls, with increased intention to abstain from use.
A patient who smoked PCP-laced cannabis developed ECG changes mimicking a dangerous heart condition
Case report of a patient who developed ECG changes mimicking critical coronary blockage after smoking PCP-laced cannabis. Coronary angiography was normal.
Oral fluid THC tests were highly accurate at detecting cannabis use but poor at measuring blood THC levels
Analysis of 4,596 drivers found oral fluid THC tests were 79% sensitive and 98% specific for detecting cannabis use, but poorly predicted actual blood THC levels.
Cannabis use independently predicted higher risks of heart failure and stroke in adults under 55
National database analysis found cannabis use independently predicted heart failure and stroke risk in adults 18-55, even after adjusting for tobacco, alcohol, and traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
A psychiatry case study showed intravenous haloperidol effectively treated cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Case report demonstrated successful treatment of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome with IV haloperidol after psychiatric consultation clarified the diagnosis.
A national survey found most Americans believe marijuana has benefits, with views more favorable than evidence supports
National survey of 9,003 adults found 81% believe marijuana has benefits and 29% believe it prevents health problems, with public views more favorable than current evidence supports.
A pregnant woman with chronic cannabis use was misdiagnosed with pregnancy-related vomiting when she actually had cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Case of a pregnant woman repeatedly hospitalized for vomiting that was actually CHS, not pregnancy-related. Diagnosis was delayed because symptoms mimicked hyperemesis gravidarum.
A patient with kidney disease was started on dialysis for vomiting that was actually caused by cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Patient with kidney disease was started on dialysis for vomiting assumed to be from kidney failure. Dialysis did not help. Stopping marijuana did. CHS had been masquerading as uremia.
San Diego emergency medicine experts created a consensus treatment guideline for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Expert consensus guideline recommended capsaicin as first-line CHS treatment, haloperidol/olanzapine as alternatives, avoidance of opioids, and patient education that cannabis cessation is the only lasting solution.
A survey of 1,722 cannabis growers found 44% used chemical fertilizers, with hydroponic growing as the key predictor
Survey of 1,722 cannabis growers found 44% used chemical fertilizers or insecticides, with hydroponic growing as the key predictor. Poor product labeling made it hard to identify harmful chemicals like plant growth regulators.
Clinical guidelines recommended limiting THC to 30 mg/day, starting low, titrating slowly, and combining with CBD
Practical dosing review recommended medical cannabis THC be limited to 30 mg/day, combined with CBD, started low and titrated slowly over two weeks, with guidance for special populations and drug interactions.
First case report linking chronic cannabis use with H. pylori infection and preeclampsia during pregnancy
First case report of the triad of CHS, H. pylori gastritis, and preeclampsia in a cannabis-using pregnant woman, raising questions about cannabinoid-related pathways in pregnancy complications.
Heavy cannabis use was linked to reduced immune activation and inflammation in HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy
Study of 198 HIV-positive patients found heavy cannabis use was associated with reduced immune activation and inflammatory markers, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory benefits in treated HIV infection.
A driver was impaired by a potent synthetic cannabinoid (5F-ADB) detected in blood at low concentration
Case report documented driving impairment from synthetic cannabinoid 5F-ADB, detected at 26.37 ng/mL in blood with no other drugs present. One of the first cases conclusively linking synthetic cannabinoids to impaired driving.
A review in Obstetrics & Gynecology concluded women should avoid marijuana during pregnancy and breastfeeding based on evidence of potential harm
Obstetrics review found marijuana crosses the placenta and enters breast milk, with meta-analyses and cohort studies suggesting associations with growth restriction, preterm birth, and neurobehavioral effects. Women advised to avoid use during pregnancy and lactation.
Daily marijuana use was linked to increased HIV risk behavior in transgender women, but only among those with higher overall use
Study of 214 transgender women found daily marijuana use was the only substance linked to HIV risk behavior during sex, but only among those with higher overall marijuana use rates.
A CHS patient improved with topical capsaicin, supporting the TRPV1 receptor theory for why hot showers help
Case report of CHS improvement with topical capsaicin supported a new mechanistic model: chronic cannabis decreases TRPV1 receptor signaling, explaining why both hot water and capsaicin (TRPV1 activators) provide relief.
A school-based prevention program increased cannabis knowledge for 2 years but had inconclusive effects on actual cannabis use
Cluster RCT of 2,190 Australian students found school-based prevention programs increased cannabis knowledge for 2 years, but effects on actual cannabis use and harms were inconclusive over 3 years.
Interviews revealed marijuana and alcohol create distinctly different sexual experiences, with alcohol causing more regret and marijuana enhancing physical sensations
Interviews with 24 adults found alcohol led to more social disinhibition and post-sex regret, while marijuana enhanced physical sensations, intensity, and orgasm quality, with both having distinct negative effects on sexuality.
Among LA tenth-graders, 31% had tried smoking cannabis, 21% had tried edibles, and most users consumed via multiple methods
Survey of 3,177 LA tenth-graders found high cannabis use across methods (31% combustible, 21% edible, 11% vaporized), with most users consuming via multiple administration methods.
Daily Cannabis Use Was Linked to Slower Transition to Injection Drug Use in Street Youth
Ten-year study of 481 street-involved youth found daily cannabis users were 34% less likely to start injecting drugs, challenging the gateway drug hypothesis.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome: Why Standard Anti-Nausea Drugs Fail and What Works Instead
Review explains why standard anti-nausea drugs fail in cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and why benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and topical capsaicin work better, based on the condition's unique pathophysiology.
Why Hot Showers and Capsaicin Cream Relieve Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Symptoms
Review of 137 studies explains that hot showers and capsaicin likely relieve CHS symptoms by activating TRPV1 receptors, which share extensive cross-talk with the endocannabinoid system.
Low-THC Medicinal Cannabis Did Not Work as a Substitute for Street Cannabis in Psychosis Patients
Case series found that substituting street cannabis with a low-THC medicinal cannabis variant was not effective for treating cannabis use disorder in seven psychosis inpatients.
French Cases of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Matched the International Pattern
Analysis of 29 French CHS cases alongside 113 international cases confirmed a consistent pattern: young male daily cannabis users with cycling vomiting relieved by hot showers but not standard antiemetics.
Daily Cannabis Use Was Linked to Better Retention in Opioid Treatment Programs
Large cohort study found daily cannabis users had 21% greater odds of staying in opioid treatment (methadone/buprenorphine) over nearly 7 years of follow-up.
Schizophrenia Patients Accepted Low-THC Cannabis but Preferred Their Regular High-Potency Product
Pilot study found schizophrenia patients accepted low-THC cannabis variants but preferred their usual high-potency product, supporting the feasibility but highlighting challenges of cannabis substitution.
Emergency Department Guide to Managing Cannabis Intoxication and Hyperemesis
Comprehensive ED guide covers cannabinoid pathophysiology, differences between natural and synthetic products, and emerging treatments for cannabinoid hyperemesis including haloperidol and capsaicin.
Nearly Half of Hospitalized Children of Smoking Parents Had Marijuana Metabolites in Their Urine
46% of hospitalized children of smoking parents in Colorado had marijuana metabolites in their urine, with 11% having detectable THC itself. Home marijuana use by parents was the strongest predictor.
Cannabis Legalization Has Made Limited Progress on Correcting the Racial Injustices of Prohibition
Review found cannabis legalization has made some progress on convictions and arrests but very little on industry diversity and equity programs for communities most harmed by prohibition.
Synthetic cannabinoids cause far more severe and unpredictable toxicities than marijuana
A review of synthetic cannabinoid toxicities documented severe effects across multiple organ systems including cardiac arrest, psychosis, seizures, and kidney failure, plus deaths from contaminated products.
Six synthetic cannabinoid users developed multiple organ failure, including the first case requiring a liver transplant
Six synthetic cannabinoid users developed multiple organ failure including severe muscle breakdown, kidney failure, and the first reported case of SC-associated liver failure requiring transplantation.
Most adult-use dispensary customers reported using cannabis for pain or sleep and cutting back on other medications
A survey of 1,000 Colorado recreational dispensary customers found 65% used cannabis for pain and 74% for sleep, with most reporting they reduced or stopped using other medications including opioids.
Rat poison-contaminated synthetic cannabinoids caused severe bleeding in 16 patients, costing thousands per hospitalization
A 16-patient cohort with bleeding from rat poison-contaminated synthetic cannabinoids showed 75% had severely abnormal clotting, one died, and treatment averaged $5,300 per hospitalization.
At least 27 jurisdictions allow some form of home cannabis cultivation, creating potential for community supply models
A review of 27+ jurisdictions found wide variation in home cannabis cultivation policies and argues they could serve as a foundation for community-level supply models.
Simply texting parents about school performance cut teen alcohol and marijuana use nearly in half
An RCT found weekly text messages to parents about school performance reduced teen alcohol and marijuana initiation from 18.2% to 10.2% by 8th grade, at just $15/student/year.
High-concentration cannabis products are sending more young children to the hospital
A review found increasing pediatric hospitalizations from high-potency cannabis products like edibles, causing sedation and respiratory depression in young children, while chronic teen use causes cognitive and GI problems.
About 80% of medical cannabis users with chronic pain reported substituting it for traditional pain medications
A survey of 1,321 chronic pain patients found 80% substituted cannabis for traditional pain meds, including 53% for opioids, citing fewer side effects and better symptom control.
Drivers with THC below 5 ng/mL showed no increased crash risk, while alcohol at 0.08% increased risk sixfold
A prospective study of 3,005 injured drivers found no crash risk increase with THC below 5 ng/mL and only a non-significant increase above, compared to sixfold increase for alcohol above 0.08%.
Online training for marijuana store employees improved ID checking and ability to spot intoxicated customers
A randomized trial found online responsible vendor training for marijuana stores improved ID checking skills and intoxication detection confidence, with 91% of employees recommending it.
A synthetic marijuana user developed severe blood clotting failure and cardiac arrest from hidden rat poison
A synthetic marijuana user developed severe blood clotting failure and cardiac arrest from brodifacoum (rat poison) contamination, adding to evidence of a contamination crisis.
Cannabis Got Stronger Again: THC Doubled From 2008 to 2017 and Concentrates Exploded
Follow-up potency monitoring found cannabis THC doubled to 17.1% by 2017, concentrates hit 55.7%, and the THC:CBD ratio reached 104:1 in both U.S. and European markets.
Cannabis smoke can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions, and these risks are often overlooked
A review found cannabis smoke can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions, with users showing more symptoms and medical visits, making cannabis an underrecognized respiratory disease trigger.
Cannabis-related ER visits in kids and teens are rising, from accidental toddler ingestions to chronic hyperemesis
Cannabis-related pediatric ER visits are rising, ranging from accidental ingestion (hyperkinesis, coma in young children) to chronic hyperemesis and psychosis in adolescents.
Cannabis use did not reduce hepatitis C cure rates in patients on opioid substitution therapy
In nearly 8,000 hepatitis C patients, cannabis use had no effect on cure rates regardless of opioid substitution therapy status, removing a barrier to treating substance-using patients.
Cannabis secondhand smoke exposure in apartments is as common as tobacco secondhand smoke
A survey found 7.5% of Ontario apartment residents were involuntarily exposed to cannabis smoke from neighbors, similar to tobacco smoke exposure (6.6%), with lower-income residents most affected.
Cannabis carries both real risks and real therapeutic potential, but causal evidence is still largely missing
A balanced review found cannabis is associated with multiple health harms but causal evidence is largely missing, while cannabinoid-based drugs show legitimate therapeutic potential across many conditions.
MS patients who use cannabis for symptoms face stigma that prevents open conversations with nurses
A review found MS patients commonly use cannabis for symptoms but avoid discussing it with nurses due to stigma, highlighting a communication gap that undermines person-centered care.
Veterans with both opioid and cannabis use disorders had fewer opioid prescriptions but more psychiatric hospitalizations
Large veteran study found co-occurring opioid and cannabis use disorders linked to fewer opioid prescriptions but higher psychiatric admissions and homelessness compared to opioid use disorder alone.
CBD shows promise for reducing alcohol consumption and protecting the liver and brain from alcohol damage
Narrative review of animal studies showing CBD reduces alcohol consumption, motivation to drink, and relapse while protecting against alcohol-related liver and brain damage.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: what doctors need to know about cannabis-related cyclic vomiting
Literature review describing cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, an under-diagnosed condition causing cyclic vomiting in chronic cannabis users, with complete cessation as the only known cure.
Cannabis allergy is real: lipid transfer protein Can s 3 identified as the main culprit
Study of 120 patients identifies Can s 3 as the main cannabis allergen in up to 72% of anaphylaxis cases, with cross-reactivity to other plant foods, and evaluates five diagnostic approaches.
Cannabis users hospitalized with inflammatory bowel disease had shorter stays and lower bills
National propensity-matched study of over 7,000 IBD hospitalizations found cannabis users had shorter stays, lower charges, and lower colorectal cancer rates, though some complications were higher.
Roadside oral fluid tests for cannabis still don't meet accuracy standards
Systematic review of 15 studies finds no current roadside oral fluid test for cannabis meets the 80% accuracy standard, though devices detecting lower THC levels showed better performance.
Cannabis has been linked to at least 13 cardiovascular deaths and dozens of serious emergencies
Review identifying at least 13 deaths and 35 serious cardiovascular emergencies linked to cannabis use, plus multiple strokes and vascular arteritis cases, likely underestimating the true incidence.
Five-year opioid treatment study found persistent heroin use linked to crack but not cannabis escalation
Five-year study of 7,717 opioid treatment patients found persistent heroin use strongly predicted crack cocaine co-use but was associated with less cannabis escalation, with crack being the key predictor of treatment failure.
THC-positive daytime drivers tripled after Washington State started retail cannabis sales
Roadside testing of 2,355 Washington drivers found daytime THC-positive rates tripled after recreational sales opened, while risk perceptions and self-reported use remained unchanged.
Young adults who said they used cannabis medically were less likely to use illicit drugs
Study of 366 young LA cannabis users found self-reported medical use linked to less illicit drug use, while concentrate and edible use predicted more other drug use, regardless of frequency.
Washington State marijuana arrests plummeted after legalization but racial disparities widened
Washington State analysis found marijuana arrests dropped dramatically after legalization, but the relative disparity between African American and White arrest rates doubled from 2.5x to 5x.
Neither blood tests nor field sobriety tests reliably detect cannabis-impaired driving
Review finds neither per se THC blood limits nor field sobriety tests reliably detect cannabis-impaired driving, arguing for general impairment detection strategies instead of substance-specific approaches.
Plain packaging and health warnings make cannabis products less appealing, especially edible gummies to youth
Experiment with 27,000+ participants found plain packaging and health warnings reduce cannabis product appeal, with edible gummies being the most youth-appealing product type.
Marijuana use did not affect HIV prevention pill adherence among gay and bisexual men
Study of 104 PrEP-using gay men over 9,532 days found marijuana use and heavy drinking did not affect HIV prevention pill adherence, while club drugs increased missed doses by 55-60%.
Cannabis compounds suppress immune defenses against gum disease bacteria through CB2 receptor pathway
Lab and mouse study shows CBD, CBN, and THC all suppress immune defenses against three major gum disease bacteria through a CB2/PI3K pathway, revealing why cannabis use increases periodontal disease risk.
Lancet review of cannabis legalization warns commercialization may repeat the public health harms of alcohol and tobacco industries
Lancet review finds cannabis legalization associated with increased use and road crash concerns, warns commercial cannabis industries may resist effective regulation like alcohol and tobacco, and outlines harm-minimizing policy approaches.
Cyclic vomiting syndrome shares features with cannabinoid hyperemesis but has deeper roots in migraine and mitochondrial disorders
Review of cyclic vomiting syndrome highlights its overlap with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and connections to migraine and mitochondrial disorders, proposing a multicenter registry for future research.
Nearly 80% of Spanish drug-positive drivers tested positive for THC, with half also positive for other drugs
Spain's national roadside testing of 180,000 drivers found THC in 80% of drug-positive tests, with half of THC-positive drivers also positive for cocaine or amphetamines, especially at lower THC levels.
Cannabis hyperemesis in a dying patient: symptoms may improve with dose reduction rather than complete cessation
Case of cannabis hyperemesis in a patient with terminal ALS shows atypical presentation without hot bath behavior, and suggests dose reduction rather than cessation may manage symptoms in palliative care.
Cannabis research is dangerously behind the reality of legalization, and the field needs new study designs
Review finds cannabis science dangerously behind the legalization reality, with 63% of Americans accessing medicinal cannabis markets while research barriers create critical knowledge gaps.
26-year-old suffered heart attack and heart failure after a cannabis smoking binge
Case report of a 26-year-old male who had a heart attack and heart failure after a cannabis smoking binge, adding to rare but concerning documented cardiovascular events in young cannabis users.
Can cannabis help people reduce their opioid use for pain?
Review of evidence on cannabis as a potential substitute or complement to opioids for pain management, finding promising but preliminary support.
Researchers propose 28 indicators to track whether cannabis legalization helps or hurts public health in Canada
Review proposes 28 public health indicators to evaluate Canada's cannabis legalization, with early US data showing mixed harms but some benefits.
Daily cannabis use associated with 50% lower odds of daily illicit opioid use among people with chronic pain
Longitudinal study of 1,152 people with chronic pain found daily cannabis use associated with 50% lower odds of daily illicit opioid use.
Utah EVALI investigation: 92% of hospitalized patients had used THC vaping products
Utah EVALI investigation found 92% of patients used THC vaping products, with vitamin E acetate detected in 89% of tested THC cartridges.
Veterans with free cannabis access chose high-THC products and used cannabis as a substitute for other drugs
Survey of 93 veterans with free cannabis access found most used it to substitute for other substances, but chose high-THC products without clinical guidance.
Large survey of Canadian medical cannabis patients reveals widespread substitution for prescription drugs, opioids, and alcohol
Survey of 2,032 Canadian medical cannabis patients found 69% substituted for prescription drugs, with 59% of opioid substituters reporting complete cessation.
Review draws parallels between cardiovascular harms of cannabis and tobacco smoking
Review finds cannabis smoking produces similar combustion chemicals and cardiovascular risks as tobacco, including heart attacks, arrhythmias, and strokes, potentially at younger ages.
Colorado surveillance system validated for tracking marijuana-related ER visits after legalization
Validated surveillance of Colorado ER visits found 188 confirmed marijuana-related cases, disproportionately affecting edible users and out-of-state visitors.
Medical cannabis patients describe it as having fewer side effects than prescriptions but face stigma and dosing confusion
Qualitative study of 25 medical cannabis cardholders found patients prefer cannabis over prescriptions but face stigma, cost, and lack of clinical dosing guidance.
Edible cannabis caused more psychiatric and cardiovascular ER visits than expected based on sales volume
Colorado study found edible cannabis accounted for 0.32% of THC sales but 10.7% of cannabis ER visits, with higher rates of psychiatric, intoxication, and cardiovascular events.
Three deaths linked to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Three young adults with chronic cannabis use and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome died, with CHS determined as the cause of death in two cases.
A nausea drug called aprepitant helped when standard treatments failed for cannabinoid hyperemesis
A patient with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome responded to aprepitant after standard anti-nausea drugs failed.
Systematic review finds cannabis may negatively affect male fertility
A systematic review found that cannabis may reduce sperm count, motility, and fertilizing capacity, though effects on testosterone remain unclear.
A clinical overview of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
CHS causes severe cyclic vomiting in chronic cannabis users, is uniquely relieved by hot showers and capsaicin, and resolves with cessation.
The 2019 vaping lung injury outbreak: 805 cases, 12 deaths, most linked to THC products
The 2019 EVALI outbreak caused 805 lung injury cases and 12 deaths. Over three-quarters of patients with substance data reported using THC vaping products.
Cannabis users were four times more likely to have erectile dysfunction in a meta-analysis
A meta-analysis found cannabis users had 69% ED prevalence versus 35% in non-users, with nearly four times the odds, though study heterogeneity was high.
Indoor cannabis smoke was linked to worse child health outcomes in homes with smokers
Indoor cannabis smoking was associated with higher air particle levels and a non-significant trend toward worse child health outcomes in homes where tobacco was already smoked.
Colorado emergency departments are seeing more cannabis-related illnesses since legalization
Colorado EDs have seen rising cannabis-related presentations including psychosis, CHS, cardiac events, and pediatric exposures since legalization.
Cannabis use changes DNA methylation in sperm, with potential multigenerational consequences
Cannabis use alters DNA methylation in human sperm, potentially affecting offspring development and possibly future generations through epigenetic inheritance.
Systematic review finds cannabis smoking linked to heart attacks and cardiovascular disease
A systematic review of 85 studies found the majority linked cannabis smoking to increased risk of acute coronary syndrome and cardiovascular disease.
A cautionary review of health effects seen in Colorado after cannabis legalization
Since legalization, Colorado has seen increases in psychosis, suicide, substance abuse, motor vehicle fatalities, pediatric exposures, and other harms.
Drivers with children in the car were less likely to drink but just as likely to test positive for THC
A Washington roadside survey found drivers with children were far less likely to drink but just as likely to test positive for THC.
Should medical cannabis use disqualify someone from receiving a kidney transplant?
A 20-year-old was denied a kidney transplant listing due to medical cannabis use, highlighting ethical tensions as legal medical cannabis collides with transplant policy.
THC from vaping deposits on room surfaces, creating potential third-hand exposure
THC was detected on room surfaces after cannabis vaping at levels up to 4,882 ng/m2, demonstrating third-hand cannabis exposure potential.
Older cannabis users and medical users report fewer adverse effects and different withdrawal patterns
Survey of 2,905 users found older adults and medical users experience fewer adverse effects, but medical users report more withdrawal symptoms. Only 17% thought cannabis is addictive.
Cannabis-related emergency department visits increased 7% annually from 2006 to 2014
US cannabis-related ED visits rose 7% annually from 2006-2014, with teenagers at highest risk and the West region growing fastest.
How Colorado tried to protect youth in its legal cannabis market
Five years into legal cannabis, Colorado stakeholders identified gaps between youth protection goals and real-world enforcement.
Untangling cyclic vomiting syndrome from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Review examines whether cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is distinct from cyclic vomiting syndrome, finding the evidence unclear and proposing revised diagnostic criteria.
Computer-based motivational intervention reduced marijuana use via concerns about relationships
Computer-delivered ED intervention reduced marijuana use at 6 months, with relationship concerns predicting up to 5.5 fewer use days per month.
Synthetic cannabinoids tripled seizure risk in ER drug cases, while cannabis was protective
Large European ER dataset found synthetic cannabinoids nearly tripled seizure risk while natural cannabis was associated with lower seizure odds.
Unintentional cannabis ingestion in children can cause coma and respiratory depression
Review of pediatric cannabis toxicity finds rising unintentional exposures with potential for serious effects including coma and respiratory depression.
Delayed cannabinoid hyperemesis diagnosis cost an average of $77,000 per patient
Patients with cannabinoid hyperemesis averaged nearly 18 ER visits and $77,000 in costs before being diagnosed, highlighting the need for clinician awareness.
Severe lung injury in adolescent from vaping cannabis oil
Case report of an adolescent with severe lung injury from vaping cannabis oil, highlighting emerging respiratory risks.
Cannabis vaping can cause acute respiratory failure requiring ventilation
Review of cannabis vaping lung injury cases found acute respiratory failure as a serious complication, identifying key cannabis oil ingredients as potential causes.
Comprehensive guide to synthetic cannabinoids: from chemistry to toxicity
Review covers the 190+ synthetic cannabinoids reported in Europe, explaining why they are more potent and dangerous than natural cannabis as full receptor agonists.
Two-thirds of NYC public housing residents reported secondhand marijuana smoke exposure
Survey of 1,030 NYC subsidized housing residents found 67% experienced secondhand marijuana smoke in their homes, exceeding cigarette smoke exposure.
What synthetic cannabinoid users report about effects and motivations online
Analysis of 1,660 online posts revealed detailed user experiences with synthetic cannabinoids, providing insights into motivations, effects, and toxicity.
Man hospitalized with respiratory depression after eating gas station CBD gummies
A man developed respiratory depression and bradycardia after gas station CBD gummies, highlighting the dangers of unregulated CBD products.
Mixing synthetic cannabinoids with other drugs significantly increases toxicity
Study of 49 confirmed synthetic cannabinoid patients found concomitant drug use in 69.4%, with significantly worse outcomes than synthetic cannabinoid use alone.
Landmark study identified vitamin E acetate as the primary toxicant behind the 2019 vaping lung injury outbreak
A CDC/NEJM study found vitamin E acetate in 94% of EVALI patients' lung fluid across 16 states, with 94% of patients linked to THC vaping, identifying the primary toxicant behind the 2019 vaping lung injury outbreak.
Synthetic cannabinoids produced significantly more seizures than THC in mice
Synthetic cannabinoids JWH-073 and AM-2201 caused significantly more seizures in mice than THC, while endogenous cannabinoid analogs caused none, with effects mediated through CB1 receptors.
Systematic review documents acute eosinophilic pneumonia from marijuana, vaping, and waterpipe use
A systematic review found 12 cases of acute eosinophilic pneumonia from marijuana, vaping, and other non-cigarette products. Most patients were young, many needed ICU care, but all recovered with corticosteroid treatment.
Pre-legalization baseline: most pediatric cannabis poisonings involved intentional use by older teens, often with other substances
Before cannabis legalization, a Canadian pediatric hospital saw 114 cannabis poisonings over 3 years. Most involved teens using cannabis with other substances, while rare accidental ingestions by toddlers all involved family-owned cannabis at home.
Arizona dispensary lottery shows medical marijuana access increased cannabis ER visits by 45%
Using Arizona's random dispensary lottery as a natural experiment, researchers found a ~45% increase in cannabis-related ER visits in zip codes assigned a dispensary, providing unusually strong causal evidence.
Case study and review consolidates clinical features and treatment approaches for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
A case study and literature review found cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is becoming more common as cannabis use increases but remains frequently unrecognized, with no standardized diagnostic or treatment protocols.
Australian study of 55 synthetic cannabinoid-related deaths found cardiovascular disease was prominent alongside acute toxicity
An Australian study of 55 synthetic cannabinoid deaths found acute toxicity was the top cause but cardiovascular disease was strikingly common in these relatively young decedents, with AB-CHMINACA the most frequently detected compound.
Topical capsaicin cream showed promising nausea relief for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in a pilot RCT
A pilot RCT of 30 CHS patients found topical capsaicin cream significantly reduced nausea at 60 minutes vs. placebo, with 29% achieving complete resolution compared to 0% with placebo.
Synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 produced nausea-like behavior in rats via CB1 receptors with stress hormone activation
The synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 produced nausea-like behavior in rats through CB1 receptors, with elevated stress hormones, supporting the theory that cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome involves stress response dysregulation.
THC-induced nausea involves stress response dysregulation and is not blocked by standard anti-nausea drugs
THC-induced nausea in rats was blocked by six different stress-response inhibitors and a benzodiazepine, but not by the standard anti-emetic ondansetron, supporting the hypothesis that CHS is a stress-mediated condition.
Case report of acute respiratory failure from lipoid pneumonia after THC vape cartridge use
A previously healthy 28-year-old developed acute respiratory failure from lipoid pneumonia 2 weeks after using a street-bought THC vape cartridge, confirmed by BAL staining and treated with IV corticosteroids.
Large study of 5,000 injured drivers found THC modestly increased crash culpability while methamphetamine and alcohol were far riskier
A study of 5,000 injured Australian drivers found THC modestly increased crash culpability (OR 1.9) vs. methamphetamine (OR 19), with drug combinations dramatically amplifying risk.
Oregon cannabis products contained high pesticide levels, including some classified as extremely hazardous
Analysis of Oregon cannabis found 50 different pesticides, 9 classified as highly hazardous, with medical cannabis containing 3-12 times more residue than recreational products.
Systematic review of deaths involving synthetic cannabinoids found no reliable toxic dose ranges
Systematic review of 34 reports of deaths involving synthetic cannabinoids found no reliable toxic dose ranges could be established, and cause of death often remained unclear.
Cannabis co-use patterns among cigarette smokers varied by country, with higher rates in Canada and the US
Survey of 10,035 smokers across 4 countries found higher cannabis co-use in countries with permissive regulations, with tobacco-cannabis mixing far more common in England and Australia than North America.
Synthetic cannabinoid users showed elevated DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation markers
Study of 40 synthetic cannabinoid users found significantly elevated DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers compared to healthy controls, suggesting measurable biological harm from regular use.
Analysis of cannabis policy options finds unavoidable trade-offs between competing social values
Review of cannabis policy options finds each approach involves trade-offs, with commercialization likely to increase use based on alcohol and tobacco industry precedents, and prohibition reducing use but creating criminal justice harms.
Medical cannabis patients who reduced alcohol use tended to have anxiety, PTSD, and used cannabis for sleep
Exploratory study of 112 dispensary patients found those who reduced alcohol after starting cannabis were more likely to have anxiety, PTSD, and sleep disorders, suggesting a substitution pattern.
Patient's positive fentanyl tests traced to fentanyl-laced street cannabis
Case report of a patient in opioid treatment whose persistent fentanyl-positive tests were traced to fentanyl-contaminated street cannabis, resolving after switching sources.
Review of EVALI vaping lung injury links cases primarily to THC-containing products and vitamin E acetate
Review of the 2019 EVALI outbreak links cases primarily to vaping unlicensed THC products containing vitamin E acetate, with about 2% mortality and predominant presentation in young men.
Eleven marijuana users developed a rare bowel condition requiring surgery
Case series of 11 heavy marijuana users who developed small bowel intussusception requiring surgery, with no other identifiable cause in most cases.
Synthetic cannabinoids sent 30 people to the ICU with life-threatening complications
Case series of 30 ICU admissions from synthetic cannabinoid use found one-third presented in coma, 70% needed intubation, and standard drug tests missed the substance in over half of cases.
High-Dose CBD Extract Activated Liver Enzymes in Mice, but a Common Supplement Didn't Make It Worse
Mouse study found CBD extract significantly induced liver enzymes but the supplement MSM didn't amplify the effect or cause additional toxicity.
Does cannabis use during opioid addiction treatment affect outcomes? Review of 41 studies says mostly not
Systematic review of 41 studies found cannabis use during opioid addiction treatment was mostly unrelated to opioid use, treatment adherence, or retention outcomes.
21-year-old had four heart attacks linked to cannabis use
A 21-year-old with no heart disease risk factors had four heart attacks over 18 months, each linked to cannabis use, and became symptom-free after quitting.
Cannabis use linked to higher detectable viral loads in HIV patients on treatment
Study of 1,010 HIV patients found cannabis use was linked to twice the odds of detectable viral load but no differences in immune cell counts or body weight.
THC detected in human semen for the first time
First study to detect THC in human semen, found in 2 of 10 chronic cannabis users with moderate correlation to blood levels. Semen parameters were normal despite heavy use.
44% of medical cannabis patients reported drinking less alcohol after starting cannabis
Survey of 973 regular drinkers among Canadian medical cannabis patients found 44% reduced drinking frequency and 8% stopped entirely after starting medical cannabis.
Review of cannabis effects on pregnancy, fetus, and newborn finds significant concerns
Review found prenatal cannabis exposure associated with lower birth weight, neonatal effects, and developmental delays in the first 2 years, with significant research gaps remaining.
Daily cannabis users had 24% higher risk of emergency care visits in a study of 47,000 patients
Study of 47,447 screened primary care patients found daily cannabis use predicted 24% higher risk of emergency or hospital visits, while other drug use carried even stronger risk.
Synthetic cannabinoids contaminated with rat poison caused 174 cases and 5 deaths in Illinois
Illinois outbreak linked synthetic cannabinoids contaminated with rat poison (brodifacoum) to 174 severe bleeding cases and 5 deaths in 2018.
Medical cannabis may reduce opioid doses by 64-75% for chronic pain, but evidence is weak
Systematic review of 9 studies (7,222 patients) found 64-75% opioid dose reduction with medical cannabis for chronic pain, but all studies had high bias risk.
Only two studies examine cannabis use during breastfeeding, with conflicting results
Systematic review found only 2 eligible studies on cannabis exposure during breastfeeding, with conflicting results on infant development, exposing a critical evidence gap.
American Heart Association statement: cannabis has cardiovascular risks that outweigh uncertain benefits
AHA first scientific statement on cannabis concluded cardiovascular harms (arrhythmia, MI, stroke) outweigh uncertain benefits, calling for Schedule 1 reclassification to enable research.
Systematic review of 62 cases links marijuana use to heart attacks in young people with no risk factors
Review of 62 published cases found marijuana-linked heart attacks averaged age 27.7, with 37% having normal coronary arteries and 7 deaths.
Cannabis package warnings about psychosis were most educational and best at discouraging youth use
Study of 1,000 adults found psychosis warnings on cannabis packaging were most educational and best for discouraging youth use; any warning increased perceived harm.
Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is a growing gut-brain disorder with limited treatment options
Review describes cannabis hyperemesis syndrome as a gut-brain disorder caused by CB1 receptor changes in chronic users, with hot bathing, capsaicin, and haloperidol as management options.
Daily cannabis use was associated with 26% faster cessation of opioid injection in people who inject drugs
Thirteen-year study of people who inject drugs found daily cannabis use associated with 26% faster opioid injection cessation, with no increase in relapse risk.
Only 8 studies exist on cannabis use during radiation therapy, with some benefits but high bias risk
Scoping review found only 8 studies on cannabis during radiation therapy, with possible benefits for anxiety and long-term symptoms but 6 of 8 at high bias risk.
Cannabis-related healthcare visits were far less costly than cocaine, opioid, or multiple drug visits in Florida
Analysis of 709,658 drug-related healthcare visits in Florida found cannabis SUD was the lowest-cost condition, with opioids 23.4% and cocaine 9.25% more expensive.
Medical cannabis improved pain, quality of life, and reduced opioid use over 12 months in 751 patients
Twelve-month study of 751 chronic pain patients found sustained improvements in pain, quality of life, and opioid dose reduction with medical cannabis.
One in four US adults reported recent marijuana secondhand smoke exposure, but 81% opposed public marijuana smoking
Survey of 4,088 adults found 27.4% had recent marijuana secondhand smoke exposure in public, while 81% opposed public marijuana smoking and 52.4% perceived it as harmful.
Most high-risk drug users substituted their preferred drug with another, with synthetic cannabinoids replacing cannabis in 33% of cases
Study of 592 high-risk drug users found 75.7% substituted drugs, with 33.5% of cannabis users switching to synthetic cannabinoids and 35.9% of heroin users to street methadone.
Cannabis use was the strongest predictor of synthetic cannabinoid use among high-risk drug patients in treatment
Among 342 drug treatment patients, cannabis use was the strongest predictor of synthetic cannabinoid use (AOR 9.86), while gabapentinoids predicted prescription opioid use (AOR 14.33).
Only 25% of cannabis-coded ER visits were actually attributable to cannabis use
Chart review found only 25.74% of cannabis-coded ED visits were actually attributable to cannabis use, suggesting administrative data grossly overestimates cannabis-related ER burden.
States that list opioid use disorder as a cannabis qualifying condition had 39% more dispensaries claiming cannabis treats OUD
JAMA study found states listing OUD as a cannabis qualifying condition had 39% more dispensaries claiming cannabis treats OUD, potentially diverting patients from proven medications.
CB1 receptor antagonists could provide a targeted treatment for cannabis overdose, similar to naloxone for opioids
Review proposes CB1 receptor antagonists as a cannabis overdose antidote, similar to naloxone for opioids, noting most overdose symptoms are CB1-mediated.
Cannabis edibles produced delayed, lower blood THC peaks than smoking, with women showing higher concentrations
Controlled study of cannabis brownies found blood THC peaked at 1.5-2 hours, women had higher concentrations, and oral fluid testing reflected oral deposition, not blood levels.
Synthetic cannabinoid poisonings were more severe than cannabis, with more cardiovascular and GI symptoms
Analysis of 615 cannabinoid poisonings found synthetic cannabinoids caused more cardiovascular/GI symptoms than cannabis, while medical cannabis cases were milder.
40% of chronic pain patients fully stopped opioids after starting medical cannabis, with 87% reporting improved quality of life
Survey of 525 chronic pain patients found 40% completely stopped opioids after starting medical cannabis, with 87% reporting improved quality of life.
Nearly half of adult smokers in primary care also used cannabis or e-cigarettes
Among 601 adult smokers in San Francisco primary care clinics, over half also used cannabis, e-cigarettes, or both, but cessation counseling rarely addressed poly-use.
Most patients with cyclic vomiting syndrome who used cannabis said it helped, and few met criteria for cannabinoid hyperemesis
Among 140 CVS patients, 41% used cannabis with most reporting symptom relief. Only 1 of 57 cannabis users met formal criteria for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Topical capsaicin for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome reduced medication use and opioid requirements in the ER
Topical capsaicin for CHS in the ER did not shorten visits significantly but reduced additional medication use by 25% and lowered opioid requirements by more than half.
Interventions for tobacco-cannabis co-users showed weak effects on cessation but some reduction in cannabis use
A Bayesian meta-analysis found current interventions for tobacco-cannabis co-users showed weak evidence for cessation of either substance, though multi-substance approaches were more promising for cannabis.
Marijuana poison center calls in Colorado stabilized after legalization but continued rising in young children
Colorado poison center data showed marijuana exposure calls stabilized after 2014 legalization overall but continued rising in children ages 0-8, driven by edible products.
Cigarette quit rates were dramatically lower among cannabis users and did not improve over 15 years for those with cannabis use disorder
US cigarette quit ratios from 2002-2016 remained dramatically lower for cannabis users (23%) and those with CUD (15%) compared to non-users (51%), with no improvement for CUD over 15 years.
Regular cannabis use was linked to greater cardiovascular risks, especially in people who did not also smoke tobacco
Electronic health record analysis found regular cannabis use was associated with higher rates of stroke, arrhythmia, and mortality, particularly in non-tobacco users.
Athletes' attitudes about cannabis shaped whether their knowledge translated into use
A survey of 1,161 athletes found that attitudes about cannabis mediated the relationship between knowledge and use, with liberal-attitude athletes showing more knowledge and higher current use.
Two months of daily THC caused retinal damage in mice through inflammation and oxidative stress
Two months of daily THC injections caused retinal damage in mice, with increased photoreceptor death driven by inflammation and oxidative stress.
Most chronic pain patients in Ohio were willing to try medical marijuana and wanted to reduce opioid use
A survey of 242 chronic pain patients in Ohio found 84% willing to try medical marijuana, 68% wanting to reduce opioids, and 94% willing to follow their specialist's guidance on concurrent use.
Cannabis use among methadone patients increased only in Las Vegas (where legal) and predicted worse treatment retention in both clinics
A 20+ year comparison of methadone clinics found cannabis use at admission increased only in Las Vegas (legal cannabis) and predicted worse treatment retention in both Las Vegas and Tel Aviv.
THC likely reduces speed and reaction time in young drivers, but high-quality evidence is limited
A systematic review found moderate evidence that THC reduces speed, headway distance, and reaction time while increasing lane variability in young drivers ages 15-24.
Most light cannabis products sold in Italy contained pesticides and metals exceeding safety limits
Analysis of 31 light cannabis products from Italy found 87% contained pesticides and multiple heavy metals exceeding safety limits, highlighting the need for cannabis-specific regulations.
A DNA methylation biomarker detected both tobacco and cannabis smoke exposure in high school students
A longitudinal study found an epigenetic biomarker (cg05575921 methylation) detected both tobacco and cannabis smoke exposure in high school students, distinguishing combusted from non-combusted products.
Delta-8 THC products are widely sold as legal hemp but raise serious safety and regulatory concerns
Delta-8 THC is chemically similar to standard THC but sold unregulated in gas stations and online. The lack of safety standards has led to poisoning reports, including pediatric emergencies with children arriving unconscious.
Children accidentally exposed to cannabis undergo twice as many medical tests and stay in the hospital much longer
A children's hospital study found that delayed recognition of cannabis exposure in kids led to twice as many diagnostic tests, four times the avoidable costs, and hospital stays averaging 18 hours versus 4 hours for adolescents.
THC was found in more fatally injured Ontario drivers than alcohol between 2016 and 2018
A study of 921 driver fatalities in Ontario found more tested positive for THC (251) than alcohol (241). THC-positive crashes were spread throughout the week and more often involved multiple vehicles.
Cannabis vaping doubled among U.S. adults from 2017 to 2019, with the biggest jump in young adults
Cannabis vaping doubled among U.S. adults from 2017 to 2019, tripling among 18-24 year olds. While not linked to respiratory symptoms, cannabis vaping was strongly associated with heavy drinking and other high-risk behaviors.
Medical cannabis patients increased their use of alcohol, sleep aids, and other substances during COVID-19
A COVID-19 survey of 353 medical cannabis users found over half increased use of alcohol, sleep aids, or other substances. About 40% attributed this to changed cannabis access during the pandemic.
Psychological science should guide cannabis regulation to protect public health
Most state cannabis regulatory systems ignore behavioral science evidence. This review argues that applying psychology to understanding consumers, industry tactics, and regulatory design could substantially reduce cannabis-related public health harms.
Reports of adverse events from recreational cannabis tripled in France between 2012 and 2017
Adverse event reports from recreational cannabis in France tripled between 2012 and 2017, reaching 2,217 cases. Psychiatric effects were most common (51%), and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome emerged as a new concern from 2015.
Cannabis has real therapeutic uses but exposure to high THC causes adverse effects across nearly every body system
Cannabis has established medical uses for pain, nausea, spasticity, and epilepsy. However, high-THC exposure causes adverse effects across nearly every body system, with children at particular risk for serious neurological toxicity.
Frequent cannabis use was linked to 71% fewer opioid overdoses among methadone patients
Among 446 methadone patients, frequent cannabis users were 71% less likely to report a nonfatal opioid overdose in the past year (3% vs 9%), though the cross-sectional design prevents causal conclusions.
Synthetic cannabinoids are far more potent and dangerous than natural cannabis, with 207 compounds identified in Europe
Synthetic cannabinoids (Spice, K2) are far more potent than natural cannabis, with 207 compounds identified in Europe. As full receptor agonists, they cause severe toxicity including renal damage, respiratory depression, and death.
A daily cannabis user had a dangerous aspiration risk during surgery from delayed stomach emptying he did not know about
A daily cannabis user with no symptoms of gastroparesis had 500 mL of stomach contents during surgery despite proper fasting, raising concerns about hidden aspiration risks in cannabis users undergoing anesthesia.
People who inject drugs use cannabis for pain relief, emotional support, and as an opioid substitute
Among 387 people who inject drugs, cannabis was commonly used for pain relief, emotional support, and as an opioid substitute. Using cannabis for pain was strongly linked to using it as an opioid replacement.
Women over 50 make up most cannabis poison control calls, often from therapeutic errors with non-plant products
Women over 50 comprised 57% of cannabis poison control cases and were nearly twice as likely as men to call about therapeutic errors rather than misuse, often involving edibles and other non-plant cannabis products.
Cannabis poison control cases among adults over 50 increased 18-fold from 2009 to 2019
Cannabis poison control cases among adults over 50 increased 18-fold from 2009 to 2019, with non-plant products surging 51-fold. Synthetic cannabinoid products carried twice the risk of serious medical outcomes.
Synthetic cannabinoids cause severe toxicity including heart damage and death, unlike natural cannabis
Synthetic cannabinoids (Spice, K2) are full receptor agonists, unlike natural THC, explaining their extreme potency. They cause severe toxicity including heart damage, immune suppression, and death.
Very high urine THC levels above 100 ng/mL could help doctors diagnose cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome faster
In 15 young patients with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, 14 had urinary THC metabolite levels above 100 ng/mL. This threshold could help doctors diagnose CHS faster and avoid unnecessary testing.
Pediatric cannabis poisonings in Michigan rose steadily after medical marijuana legalization
Michigan saw 426 pediatric cannabis exposures from 2008-2019, doubling every 2.1 years after medical legalization, with young children mostly ingesting products and teens mostly inhaling.
US poison control reports for cannabis products rose sharply from 2017 to 2019
Analysis of US poison control data from 2017-2019 found rising cannabis exposure reports, with manufactured products and plant materials showing different patient demographics and clinical patterns.
Tailored anti-cannabis messages worked better than generic ones for at-risk teens
Two studies with 808 and 391 adolescents found that tailored gain-framed messages reduced cannabis use intentions in at-risk teens, especially after first destabilizing their resistance to prevention messaging.
States with recreational cannabis laws saw a temporary 7.6% drop in opioid-related ER visits
Analysis of ED data from 29 states found recreational cannabis laws reduced opioid-related emergency visits by 7.6% for two quarters, with effects concentrated in men aged 25-44, but the reduction faded after six months.
Blunt use among Florida teens declined from 2010-2015 then reversed, rising sharply through 2020
Analysis of 461,706 Florida students found blunt use declined from 2010-2015 then reversed sharply, with notable increases among girls, middle schoolers, and white students through 2020.
Gabapentin reduced some physical THC withdrawal symptoms in mice
Gabapentin reduced physical withdrawal signs (tremors, head twitches) and restored motivation in THC-withdrawn mice, but did not affect stress hormones or all behavioral measures.
Contaminated synthetic cannabinoids caused a coagulopathy outbreak in Illinois, affecting 174 people and killing 5
In 2018, synthetic cannabinoids contaminated with rat poison anticoagulants caused 174 hospitalizations and 5 deaths in Illinois, the first mass poisoning event of its kind.
Mental health professionals who use cannabis recognized its risks but continued use
Qualitative study found mental health professionals who use cannabis recognized psychological risks but may underestimate physical health harms, suggesting need for professional education.
Less than half of cannabis-using households with children stored it locked and hidden
Survey of 401 adults in a California pediatric ER found 14.5% had cannabis at home, but fewer than half stored it locked and hidden, and 45% received no storage guidance.
Plain packaging and health warnings made cannabis products less appealing in a large experiment
Experiment with 45,378 people found plain packaging reduced cannabis appeal while health warnings increased perceived harm, with specific Canadian-style warnings outperforming generic US warnings.
Cannabis use among US adults with children at home increased with both medical and recreational legalization
Analysis of 287,624 US adults with children found cannabis use was 28% higher in recreational legalization states and 12% higher in medical-only states compared to non-legal states.
Cannabis use doubled the odds of opioid use on the same day, contradicting the substitution hypothesis
Daily tracking of 211 adults found opioid use was twice as likely on days they also used cannabis, regardless of pain, contradicting the cannabis-as-opioid-substitute hypothesis.
Current cannabis product labels may not effectively communicate THC dose to consumers
Policy review found that cannabis product labels in regulated markets often fail to help consumers understand THC dose, and proposed five principles for more effective labeling.
College students who saw marijuana as risky were less likely to use it
Study of 599 college students found that perceiving marijuana as risky was linked to lower use, with the association being strongest among younger students.
90% of marijuana-using parents said their pediatrician never asked about their use
Survey of 1,500 caregivers in Colorado found 11% used marijuana, but 90% of those said their child's pediatrician had never asked about their use.
Pediatric cannabis edible exposures jumped 5-fold after dispensaries opened in Massachusetts
Hospital review found a 5-fold increase in pediatric cannabis edible exposures after dispensaries opened, with 16% of 32 children needing respiratory support and 34% hospitalized.
Topical capsaicin helped more CHS patients in the emergency department than standard treatment alone
Study of 201 CHS patients found topical capsaicin achieved symptom relief in 55% vs. 21% without, and shortened time to discharge by over 2 hours.
Over half of medical cannabis users reported substituting it for prescription drugs
Survey of 2,841 medical cannabis users found over half used cannabis to replace prescriptions, with 38% stopping and 46% reducing their prescription drug use, primarily pain medications.
Expert panel created consensus guidelines for managing cannabis users before and after surgery
Expert panel of 17 developed consensus guidelines for managing cannabis users during surgery, emphasizing screening, potential weaning, extra nausea prevention, and higher pain medication needs.
Medical cannabis authorization linked to reduced opioid use in high-dose patients
A study of 5,373 matched patient pairs in Alberta found that medical cannabis authorization was associated with reduced opioid use, with the largest reductions seen in patients on the highest opioid doses.
Brand imagery on cannabis packaging increased appeal among young people
A survey experiment with 870 young Canadians found that branded cannabis packaging increased appeal while health warnings decreased it. Lifestyle imagery made products seem targeted at younger consumers.
Driving-themed cannabis risk messages captured the most attention and arousal
A psychophysiology study of 50 young adults found that driving-related cannabis risk messages generated the strongest attention, arousal, and emotional engagement compared to messages about cognition or health.
Medical cannabis patients reduced opioid use by 78% over six months
A prospective study of 1,145 Canadian medical cannabis patients found opioid use dropped from 28% to 11% over six months, with a 78% reduction in daily dosage, alongside quality-of-life improvements.
Nearly half of medical cannabis patients who used tobacco reported reducing or quitting
A survey of 2,102 Canadian medical cannabis patients found that among 650 tobacco/nicotine users, 49% reported reducing use and 25% reported quitting after starting medical cannabis.
Cannabis use independently associated with higher heart attack risk in French nationwide study
A French nationwide study of 3.3+ million patients found cannabis was the only illicit drug independently associated with higher heart attack risk, though post-heart-attack outcomes were similar for drug users and non-users.
All top YouTube videos on THC oil and skin cancer were misleading and low quality
All 10 of the most-viewed YouTube videos about THC oil for skin cancer were rated poor quality and misleading, yet nearly all viewer comments were positive or neutral.
Dispensary staff rely on personal experience and customer reports more than clinician input
A US survey of 434 dispensary workers found most based cannabis recommendations on customer experience rather than clinical evidence, and few counseled about serious risks like cannabis use disorder or psychotic reactions.
CBD cigarettes reduced need for illegal high-THC cannabis in patient with schizophrenia
A schizophrenia patient hospitalized 30 times in 8 years reported significantly less need for illegal cannabis and no further hospitalizations after switching to low-THC CBD cigarettes.
One in four high-risk drug users in Vancouver reported using cannabis to reduce harm from other substances
About 25% of marginalized drug users in Vancouver reported using cannabis to reduce harm from other substances, most commonly as a substitute for stimulants and opioids.
Higher cannabis problem scores and polysubstance use predicted driving after cannabis use
Analysis of 1,110 digital cannabis assessments found higher problem scores and polysubstance use predicted driving after cannabis use, with the tool costing under a dollar per use.
How does combining alcohol and marijuana affect driving behavior compared to using either alone?
Daily diary study finds simultaneous alcohol-marijuana use increases riding with impaired drivers, while non-simultaneous use of both substances most increases driving after use.
Could cannabis replace some alcohol in programs for people with severe alcohol use disorder?
Study across 6 Canadian managed alcohol programs finds 63% of participants already substitute cannabis for alcohol, with 84% willing to join a formal substitution program.
Does topical capsaicin cream work for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome?
Meta-analysis of 7 studies (106 patients) finds topical capsaicin provides symptom relief for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, with mean resolution time around 5.4 hours.
What interventions actually work to prevent drugged driving?
Systematic review of 28 studies finds packaging warnings, roadside testing, and motivational interviewing most effective for preventing drugged driving, while legal sanctions show little impact.
Does cannabis use affect opioid addiction treatment outcomes?
Study of 2,315 OUD patients finds overall cannabis use doesn't affect treatment outcomes, but daily cannabis use is associated with 39% lower odds of continued opioid use.
One-Third of NYC Families in Apartments Report Marijuana Smoke Drifting In
Survey of 382 NYC families found 31% reported marijuana smoke entering their homes while with their children, with public housing residents 3.45 times more likely to be exposed.
Cannabis Use Linked to Less Fentanyl Exposure in Opioid Treatment Patients
Prospective study of 819 people on opioid therapy found cannabis users were 9% less likely to test positive for fentanyl, suggesting a potential harm-reduction role during the opioid crisis.
Phone-Based Feedback Made College Students Think Driving High Is More Dangerous
Pilot trial of 77 college cannabis users found that personalized feedback plus text messaging significantly increased perceptions of dangerousness of driving after cannabis use at 3 months.
Trauma-Informed Program Successfully Reduced Cannabis Use in At-Risk Girls
Randomized trial of 113 at-risk girls found a 12-session trauma-informed intervention (VOICES) significantly reduced cannabis use over 9 months compared to an attention control.
Evidence That Cannabis Laws Reduce Opioid Problems Is Still Inconclusive
Review of 21 studies found largely inconclusive evidence on whether cannabis laws affect opioid prescribing, use, or mortality, identifying six major research challenges limiting current evidence.
Capsaicin cream did not shorten ER stays for cannabinoid hyperemesis, but earlier application helped
Study of 55 CHS patients found capsaicin cream did not shorten ER stays overall, but patients receiving it within the first two treatment rounds were discharged significantly faster (4.8 vs. 7.1 hours).
CB2 receptor activation reduced fentanyl-induced respiratory depression in mice
Mouse study found a CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist protected against fentanyl-induced respiratory depression without affecting breathing on its own, confirmed through knockout mice.
Cannabis use in type 1 diabetes can mimic diabetic ketoacidosis but shows distinctly different lab values
Study of 68 type 1 diabetes patients found cannabis users presenting with apparent DKA had dramatically different labs (pH 7.42 vs. 7.09), suggesting CHS-related ketosis rather than true DKA.
A CB1 neutral antagonist blocked fentanyl effects in rats without the side effects of rimonabant
CB1 neutral antagonist AM4113 blocked fentanyl discrimination in rats at lower doses and without the side effects of rimonabant, showing promise as a novel approach to opioid use disorder.
Cannabis-related ER visits by Ontario youth increased nearly fivefold from 2003 to 2017
Cannabis-related ER visits among Ontario youth rose 4.8-fold from 2003 to 2017, with higher severity and hospital admission rates than non-cannabis visits.
Global survey of 107,000 people finds cannabis smoked at home more often than tobacco
A global survey of 107,272 people found cannabis was more commonly smoked indoors than tobacco, with 78.8% of cannabis-only users smoking at home vs. 67.9% of tobacco-only users.
Substance users and addiction experts agree on harm rankings but disagree on benefits: users rate cannabis benefits higher
Substance users and addiction experts agreed that cannabis is less harmful than alcohol or benzodiazepines, but users rated cannabis benefits significantly higher than experts did.
Updated review finds haloperidol, benzodiazepines, and capsaicin cream most effective for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
A review finds standard antiemetics often fail for CHS, while haloperidol, benzodiazepines, and capsaicin cream are the most effective treatments. Only cannabis cessation resolves the condition completely.
Spanish ER study finds CHS incidence of 4.4 per 10,000 visits, with capsaicin resolving vomiting in about 18 minutes
A Spanish ER study found CHS at 4.4 per 10,000 visits, with 50% recurrence and topical capsaicin resolving vomiting in about 18 minutes.
Commentary finds cannabis vaporizers reduce carbon monoxide and respiratory symptoms but are not risk-free for new users
Cannabis vaporizers reduce respiratory toxins and symptoms compared to smoking but are not risk-free, especially for new users who face cognitive impairment and dependence risks.
Nearly 30% of flavored cigar smokers say they would switch to cannabis if flavored cigars were banned
A national survey found 29% of flavored cigar smokers would switch to cannabis if flavored cigars were banned, with racial/ethnic minorities more likely to make the switch.
Argentine ER study finds alcohol and combined alcohol-cannabis use dramatically increase road traffic injury risk
An Argentine ER study found alcohol increased road traffic injury risk nearly 7-fold, with combined alcohol-cannabis use showing similar risk, particularly among those under 30.
Can cannabis or THC help ease opioid withdrawal symptoms?
A systematic review of 11 studies found inconsistent evidence that cannabis or THC alleviates opioid withdrawal, with a potentially narrow therapeutic window.
Two long-term cannabis users had vitamin deficiencies and low cortisol
Two long-term cannabis users had vitamin deficiencies and low cortisol that improved with supplements and psychotherapy.
School-based neuroscience program reduced substance use among older teens
A neuroscience-based school program for older teens reduced binge drinking, cannabis use, MDMA use, and nicotine use at 6 months.
CBD blocked THC-induced nausea in rats through serotonin receptors
CBD blocked THC-induced nausea in rats through 5-HT1A serotonin receptors and also reversed THC-induced stress hormone elevation.
A CB1 receptor enhancer reduced opioid withdrawal symptoms in mice without cannabis-like side effects
A CB1 receptor enhancer fully blocked withdrawal-induced diarrhea and weight loss in opioid-dependent mice without cannabis-like side effects.
What drives cannabis purchase decisions in a legal market?
Qualitative study found price, quality, and social factors drive cannabis purchase decisions in Canada, while packaging and warnings have little influence.
Cannabis legalization, teen use trends, and what works in drug education
Review of national survey data finds that cannabis legalization has not consistently increased adolescent use, and evidence-based education outperforms fear-based approaches.
Millions report secondhand cannabis smoke exposure at home in the U.S. and Canada
Large survey found about 1 in 5 residents reported secondhand cannabis smoke at home, with higher rates in multi-unit housing across both legal and illegal jurisdictions.
Combining alcohol and cannabis increased driving impairment beyond either drug alone
A controlled trial found combining alcohol and cannabis increased driving impairment beyond either substance alone, and users were unaware of the added impairment.
Motivational interviewing reduced alcohol use in Hispanic and non-Hispanic adolescents
RCT found motivational interviewing reduced alcohol use equally well in Hispanic and non-Hispanic adolescents, with indirect effects on cannabis use through motivation.
Cannabis flower with balanced THC and CBD produced less anxiety and paranoia than THC-only strains
Trial found cannabis flower with balanced THC:CBD produced similar positive effects but significantly less anxiety and paranoia than THC-dominant flower.
A portable brain scanner detected THC impairment more accurately than field sobriety tests
Portable brain imaging with machine learning detected THC impairment with 76% accuracy and only 10% false positives, outperforming field sobriety tests.
Getting a medical cannabis license did not reduce opioid prescription use in Rhode Island
Population-based study found obtaining a medical cannabis license in Rhode Island was not associated with any change in opioid prescription filling patterns.
Most people are poorly informed about cannabis health risks, especially psychosis
Survey of 72,459 people found most knew about driving and pregnancy risks of cannabis, but only 23-37% knew about psychosis risk, with frequent users knowing least.
Canada's mandatory cannabis warning labels tripled health risk recall after legalization
Canada's mandatory cannabis warning labels tripled health risk recall post-legalization, significantly outpacing U.S. states with less comprehensive requirements.
Clinical guideline recommends avoiding cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Canadian clinical guideline recommends avoiding cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with harm reduction strategies when abstinence is not feasible.
Discouraging breastfeeding for cannabis-using mothers may cause more harm than good
Ethics analysis found discouraging breastfeeding in cannabis-using mothers may cause net harm, compromise autonomy, and worsen racial health disparities.
Canadian pediatric clinicians weigh the ethics of prescribing medical cannabis to children
Pediatric clinicians in Canada support medical cannabis under harm reduction principles but face authorization barriers and want more neurodevelopmental research.
Most Canadian healthcare providers feel uncomfortable with their cannabis knowledge
Among 70 Canadian healthcare providers, 56% felt uncomfortable with their cannabis knowledge, and uncertainty about dosing was the top barrier to prescribing.
First reported case of air leaking into the spine from cannabis hyperemesis vomiting
First case of pneumorrhachis (spinal air leak) linked to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, caused by severe, repeated vomiting.
First large study links synthetic cannabinoid blood levels to consciousness impairment in 71 patients
In 71 patients, blood levels of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-MDMB-PICA followed a dose-response pattern with CB1 receptor activation, and higher activation predicted greater loss of consciousness.
Children exposed to secondhand marijuana smoke had more respiratory infections
Children of caregivers who smoked marijuana had 26% more viral respiratory infections per year compared to unexposed children in a survey of 1,500 families.
Most CBD products contain undisclosed THC, including some labeled "THC-Free"
Lab testing found THC in 65% of 80 CBD products, including 24% of those labeled "THC-Free," with concentrations up to 2 mg/mL.
Nearly half of CBD products tested had inaccurate labels
Nearly half of 80 CBD products tested had CBD concentrations more than 10% off their labels, with some containing less than half the advertised amount.
Marijuana causes bronchitis but probably does not cause COPD or lung cancer
Marijuana causes bronchitis but the evidence suggests it does not cause COPD and probably does not cause lung cancer, a distinctly different pattern from tobacco.
Neither CBD nor THC enhance athletic performance, but CBD's anti-inflammatory potential is untested in sport
CBD and THC do not boost athletic performance. CBD's anti-inflammatory potential remains untested in sport. Some CBD products may trigger positive drug tests due to THC contamination.
Adding pictures to cannabis warning labels significantly improved health risk recall in young adults
Adding pictures to cannabis warning labels significantly improved health risk recall and perceived effectiveness among 523 at-risk young adults.
Anxiety is the top reason patients use medical cannabis in Pennsylvania
Anxiety was the top reason for medical cannabis use among 207 Pennsylvania patients, with 95% reporting no side effects and more than half reporting improvement.
New synthetic cannabinoid ADB-BUTINACA emerged in UK emergency departments with concerning features
ADB-BUTINACA emerged in 10 UK emergency patients since 2021, causing reduced consciousness in all cases, including two from contaminated edible "cannabis" gummies.
A two-hour cannabis education module significantly improved nurse practitioner knowledge and willingness to discuss cannabis
A 2-hour cannabis education module improved NP test scores by 39%, with 92% reporting willingness to discuss cannabis with patients at 3-month follow-up.
One in five people who use illicit opioids intentionally substitute other substances, with cannabis being common
Among 1,527 people who use illicit opioids in Vancouver, 22% intentionally used other substances to reduce opioid use, with cannabis being the second most common substitute at 28%.
Parental cannabis use was the strongest predictor of teens using cannabis in Slovenia
Parental cannabis use was the strongest predictor of teen use among 839 Slovenian students, with mothers' parenting style and specific cannabis rules also playing key roles.
Comprehensive review finds cannabis has minimal to no benefit for sleep disorders
Cannabis products showed minimal to no benefit for sleep disorders in this review, and cannabis withdrawal itself causes significant insomnia that can drive relapse.
Edible gummies perceived as healthier and more appealing than other cannabis products in packaging experiments
Edible gummies were seen as healthier and more appealing than other cannabis forms. Health claims on packages boosted positive feelings, while health warnings had little effect.
What Cannabis-Using Pregnant Women Discuss in Online Forums
Analysis of an online pregnancy forum found cannabis-using mothers primarily seek information about drug testing, CPS involvement, and state-specific legal consequences rather than health effects.
Cannabis Lowered Eye Pressure but Was Linked to Earlier Glaucoma Diagnosis
UK Biobank analysis found cannabis lowered eye pressure but was associated with glaucoma diagnosis about 10 years earlier in heavy users, challenging the idea that cannabis protects against glaucoma.
Cannabis Use Linked to Earlier Cataract Development in UK Biobank Study
UK Biobank analysis found cannabis users developed cataracts 4-5 years earlier than non-users, independent of cigarette smoking, though overall cataract risk was not increased.
Cannabis Use Linked to Lower Heart Attack Risk in UK Biobank, Similar to Red Wine
UK Biobank analysis found marijuana use associated with 15.6% lower heart attack incidence, comparable to the protective effect of moderate red wine consumption.
Profile of Adults Who Use Both Marijuana and E-Cigarettes in Utah
Population survey found adults using both marijuana and e-cigarettes were 12 times more likely to be under 30 and had elevated rates of poor mental health, respiratory conditions, and cigarette smoking.
Why Edible Cannabis Products Are Especially Risky for Children and Teens
Review described how edible cannabis products pose unique pediatric risks due to food-like appearance, copycat packaging, lack of smell, and delayed onset that promotes overconsumption.
How Cannabis Affects Reproductive Health from Fertility Through Menopause
Comprehensive review found cannabis exposure linked to adverse effects across reproductive health: altered fertility, preterm birth, impaired fetal development, and THC present in breast milk.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in Adolescents: Diagnosis and Treatment Guide
Review found the best evidence for treating pediatric cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is IV rehydration plus haloperidol 0.05 mg/kg, with cannabis cessation as the only long-term cure.
Prenatal Cannabis Use Linked to Preterm Birth and Birth Defects in 1.28 Million Canadian Births
Study of 1.28 million Canadian births found prenatal cannabis use nearly doubled the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight and increased congenital anomaly risk by 71%, with female infants more susceptible.
One in Four Canadians Surveyed Had Used Cannabis Topically
Canadian survey found nearly one in four respondents used cannabis topically, most commonly for joint stiffness, headaches, and skin conditions, with dispensaries as the primary information source.
Fourth-Generation Synthetic Cannabinoids Are More Potent and Toxic Than Ever
At least 20 new fourth-generation synthetic cannabinoids emerged between 2017-2021 with higher receptor potency and increased adverse reactions including psychosis, self-harm, and deaths.
What Keeps South African Teens from Using Cannabis in Communities Where It Grows
In South African cannabis-growing communities, non-using teens cited academic focus, religious beliefs, family dignity, and fear of legal consequences as reasons for abstaining from cannabis.
Cannabis Impaired Simulated Driving for Hours, but Users Felt Ready to Drive Too Soon
RCT of 191 regular cannabis users found simulated driving impairment lasted up to 3.5 hours, but 69% felt ready to drive at 1.5 hours. THC content and use history did not predict impairment level.
Cannabis Dependence Rose Across South America While Treatment Remained Scarce
Cannabis dependence roughly doubled or tripled across Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay from 2006-2018, while fewer than 16% of dependent individuals accessed treatment in any country.
Oral Cannabinoids Appeared Safe in People Living with HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy
Pilot trial of oral cannabinoids in HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy found them generally safe with stable CD4 counts and viral suppression, supporting larger studies.
Blood and Saliva THC Levels Are Poor Indicators of Driving Impairment
Meta-analysis of 28 studies found blood and saliva THC levels are poor predictors of driving impairment, with negligible to weak correlations that disappear entirely in regular cannabis users.
CBD Does Not Cause False-Positive THC Results on Roadside Drug Tests
In 515 roadside drug tests after oral CBD up to 1,500 mg, zero false-positive THC results were observed, confirming pure CBD does not trigger standard cannabis drug tests.
How People in Opioid Recovery Use Cannabis: Insights from Reddit Forums
Analysis of Reddit forums found people in opioid recovery use cannabis primarily for withdrawal management, while active opioid users use it to enhance the high, revealing two distinct patterns.
Occasional Cannabis Users Had the Worst Driving Impairment During Distraction Tasks
Driving study found occasional cannabis users had 3.7x higher lane departure risk during distracted driving after smoking, while daily users compensated by driving slower.
One in Three Australians Using Cannabis Medically Met Criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder
Survey of 905 Australian medical cannabis users found 32% met criteria for cannabis use disorder, with inhaled use, mental health indications, and frequent use as key risk factors.
Nearly Half of Psychosis Patients in South Africa Used Cannabis
Review of 370 South African psychiatric inpatient records found nearly half (48.9%) used cannabis, with use strongly linked to male sex, alcohol co-use, and more frequent hospital readmissions.
Half of Low-THC Cannabis Products in Switzerland Were Laced with Synthetic Cannabinoids
Swiss drug checking found half of low-THC cannabis samples were laced with synthetic cannabinoids, with users experiencing significantly more psychological and cardiac adverse effects.
Children Exposed to Cannabis in the Womb Had More Body Fat and Higher Blood Sugar by Age 5
Children exposed to cannabis in utero had 1 kg more fat mass, 2.6% higher body fat, and 5.6 mg/dL higher blood sugar by age 5 compared to unexposed children.
Cannabis Companies Routinely Violate Social Media Marketing Restrictions
Analysis of 2,660 social media posts from cannabis companies found 35% contained prohibited promotions and fewer than half included required safety warnings, with youth-appealing content common.
Cannabis May Drive Violence in Early Psychosis Through Impulsivity
Review found cannabis is a risk factor for violence in early-phase psychosis, with impulsivity as a potential mediating mechanism linked to cannabis effects on frontal brain regions.
Cannabis Did Not Reduce Opioid Use or Real-Time Pain in Chronic Pain Patients
Real-time monitoring of 46 chronic pain patients found no pain reduction or opioid-sparing effect from cannabis co-use, though retrospective reports suggested greater perceived relief, highlighting recall bias.
Synthetic Cannabinoid JWH-018 Damaged Sperm in Rats, but Recovery Occurred by 45 Days
Synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 caused significant sperm damage and reduced testosterone in rats within days, but spermatogenesis showed partial recovery 45 days after stopping.
Cannabis Hyperemesis ER Visits Rose 13-Fold in Ontario, Driven by Commercialization
CHS emergency visits rose 13-fold in Ontario over 7.5 years, with legalization having no immediate effect but cannabis commercialization (more stores, products) associated with a 49% jump.
Adolescents with Cannabis Hyperemesis Also Developed Dangerously Low Phosphorus
Three adolescents with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome developed recurrent dangerously low phosphorus levels, highlighting the need for close electrolyte monitoring in young CHS patients.
Web-Based School Program Reduced Adolescent Drinking but Not Cannabis Use
A web-based school prevention program reduced alcohol uptake by 38-51% in over 6,000 Australian students but did not significantly affect cannabis use at 12-month follow-up.
86% of Kenyan Methadone Patients Tested Positive for Cannabis at Baseline
Among 874 methadone patients in Nairobi, 85.8% tested positive for cannabis at baseline and 62.7% during follow-up, with widespread polysubstance use.
Secondhand Cannabis Bong Smoke Produced Significant Fine Particulate Matter in a Home Setting
Study measured fine particulate matter from secondhand cannabis bong smoke in a home, showing bystanders face meaningful PM2.5 exposure during social smoking sessions.
Anti-Nausea Medications for Cannabis Hyperemesis Did Not Cause Dangerous Heart Rhythm Changes
Review of 282 CHS emergency cases found anti-emetic medications did not significantly prolong QTc. Only low potassium (below 3.0) predicted dangerous QT prolongation.
Use of Diverted Medical Cannabis Tripled Among Massachusetts Youth After Legalization
Among cannabis-using Massachusetts youth, use of diverted medical cannabis rose from 15% to 44% between 2013 and 2016, with higher rates of cannabis-impaired driving among diverted users.
Recreational Drugs Including Marijuana Are Driving Early-Onset Heart Disease
Review found that cocaine, amphetamines, alcohol, and marijuana all contribute to premature cardiovascular disease in young and middle-aged adults, representing a growing public health problem.
Both Alcohol and Cannabis Impaired Vision, but Only Higher Alcohol Doses Worsened Driving
Experimental study found both alcohol and cannabis impaired visual function, but only the higher alcohol dose (450 ml wine) significantly worsened driving simulator performance.
One Marijuana Joint Produced 4.4 Times More Fine Particles Than a Tobacco Cigarette Indoors
Controlled experiments found one marijuana joint produced 4.4 times more fine particulate matter than a tobacco cigarette in a home, with smoke detectable in all 9 rooms.
Cannabis Can Trigger Heart Attacks, Arrhythmias, and Rare Cardiovascular Events
Cardiology review found cannabis can trigger heart attacks, arrhythmias, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, and arteritis in young healthy individuals. Complete abstinence is the recommended treatment.
Mobile Phone Life-Skills Program Reduced Adolescent Cannabis Use by 45% at 18 Months
RCT of 1,473 Swiss students found a 22-week mobile phone life-skills program reduced cannabis use by 45% and tobacco by 33% at 18 months, with no effect on alcohol.
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: How the Same System That Prevents Nausea Can Also Cause It
Review explained how chronic cannabis use flips the endocannabinoid system from antiemetic to proemetic, causing CHS, and provided key differences from cyclic vomiting syndrome.
Older Cannabis Users in Hawaii Had Higher Rates of Heart Disease, Stroke, and Pain
Matched cohort in Hawaii found older cannabis users (50+) had higher rates of heart disease, stroke, chronic pain, MI, and used more healthcare services over two years compared to non-using controls.
Cannabis Policies, Use Patterns, and Research Vary Dramatically Across 16 Countries
Review of 16 countries found wide variation in cannabis policies, use reporting, and research output. European countries dominated research while Asian countries were significantly underrepresented.
New ER Algorithm Helps Distinguish Cannabis Hyperemesis from Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome
Literature review proposed a novel ER algorithm to distinguish cannabis hyperemesis from withdrawal syndrome, emphasizing that correct identification is key to appropriate treatment and reducing repeat visits.
Roadside Oral Fluid THC Tests Are Good at Detecting Any Cannabis Use but Poor at Predicting Blood Levels
Meta-analysis of 18,000+ paired samples found oral fluid THC tests detect recent cannabis use well but are unreliable for predicting whether blood THC exceeds legal driving limits.
School Health Program Reduced Marijuana Use by 23% Among High School Students
Multilevel school health program across 237 US schools reduced current marijuana use by 23% among 64,838 students, along with reductions in sexual risk and violence.
US Cannabis Emergency Department Visits Increased 12% Annually from 2006 to 2014
US cannabis ER visits rose 12% annually from 2006-2014 and continued increasing after 2016. The Midwest had the largest regional surge (36.8%), with notable increases among children and females.
CHS Audit: Young Males Dominated ER Presentations, with 43% Returning Within the Study Period
6-year Melbourne ER audit found 142 CHS presentations from 67 patients, with 43% returning. All were daily cannabis users. Normal lipase and mild CRP helped distinguish CHS from other causes.
First Genomic Study of CHS Found Genetic Mutations That May Explain Who Gets It
First genomic study of CHS found patients carried significantly more mutations in COMT, TRPV1, CYP2C9, DRD2, and ABCA1 genes, potentially explaining why some heavy users develop CHS while others do not.
Parents Secretly Gave CBD to Their Sick 4-Year-Old, Highlighting Legalization-Era Risks
Parents secretly administered a CBD extract to their 4-year-old with brain inflammation, not telling doctors because they assumed the legal product was safe, highlighting risks of unregulated self-prescribing.
54% of Cannabis TikTok Videos Portrayed Use Positively, None Were Age-Restricted
Analysis of 881 TikTok cannabis videos found 54% portrayed use positively with 417 million views. 72% used humor. None were age-restricted despite massive youth exposure.
Drivers with alcohol interlock devices increased cannabis use, and it persisted after device removal
Study of 189 DUI-convicted drivers found those with alcohol interlock devices increased cannabis use, and this substitution persisted after device removal.
A palliative care patient developed cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome from prescribed nabilone
Case report of a 70-year-old cancer patient who developed cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome from prescribed nabilone, resolving after the drug was stopped.
Systematic review identified multiple treatments for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
Systematic review of 17 studies found cannabis cessation is the best CHS treatment, with capsaicin, haloperidol, hot baths, and other options providing symptom relief.
Reducing cannabis use risk level was linked to less anxiety and fewer cannabis-related problems
Analysis of 225 participants found reducing cannabis use to lower risk levels was associated with less anxiety, depression, and cannabis-related problems.
Oral cannabis produced higher urine drug test concentrations than vaporized cannabis
Controlled study of 21 people found oral cannabis produced positive urine tests 97.6% of the time versus 59.5% for vaporized cannabis at standard workplace cutoffs.
Meta-analysis of 57 studies confirmed cannabis impairs driving, comparable to low blood alcohol
Meta-analysis of 57 driving studies found cannabis impairs lane control at levels comparable to low blood alcohol, with cannabis plus alcohol producing the worst impairment.
Perceived parental approval of marijuana and heavy drinking predicted simultaneous use in young adults
Study of 1,023 young adults found perceived parental approval of marijuana and heavy drinking was the strongest predictor of simultaneous alcohol-marijuana use.
Cannabis use was associated with up to 87% higher cardiovascular disease risk scores
NHANES study of 7,159 adults found cannabis use associated with 60-87% higher odds of elevated cardiovascular disease risk scores in a dose-dependent pattern.
Cannabis strain labels like "indica" and "sativa" don't reliably predict chemical content
Analysis of commercial cannabis across 6 US states found strain names and indica/sativa labels do not reliably predict actual chemical content.
More than a third of medical cannabis patients also used nicotine products
Survey of 697 medical cannabis patients found 39.3% also used nicotine, with nicotine delivery method predicting cannabis consumption method.
Cannabis edibles packaging often contains youth-appealing content like candy knockoffs and cartoon characters
Analysis of 256 cannabis edibles packages found widespread youth-appealing content including candy knockoffs and cartoon characters, with less-regulated states having the most.
Comprehensive review found smoking marijuana causes bronchitis but likely not lung cancer
Review found smoking marijuana causes chronic bronchitis symptoms but no significant FEV1 decline, and most studies have not linked it to lung cancer.
Mobile phone intervention reduced driving after cannabis use among college students
Pilot trial of 97 college students found mobile phone intervention with personalized feedback and text messaging reduced driving after cannabis use over 3 months.
Even a moderate dose of synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 caused psychotic-like symptoms in healthy people
Controlled trial in 24 healthy people found a moderate dose of synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 caused psychedelic effects, dissociation, amnesia, and confusion.
Synthetic cannabinoids contaminated with rat poison caused blood clotting disorder diagnosed via factor levels
Case report of synthetic cannabinoid user with coumarin contamination causing severe blood clotting disorder, diagnosed rapidly via factor level testing.
Delta-8-THC produced tolerance, dependence, and abuse-like effects similar to delta-9-THC in mice
Mouse study found delta-8-THC produces tolerance, physical dependence, and abuse-like effects qualitatively similar to delta-9-THC, challenging "milder alternative" marketing.
Young adults wanted cannabis edibles packaging to promote safe use, not just deter consumption
Focus groups with 57 Canadian young adults found they wanted cannabis edibles packaging focused on safe use (standardized dosing, child safety) rather than consumption deterrence.
Cannabis use shortened methadone treatment retention, except in patients with schizophrenia
Study of 877 methadone patients found cannabis use shortened treatment retention by 3 years, but this effect was absent in patients with schizophrenia.
Cannabis use was not linked to respiratory ER visits but was associated with more overall hospitalizations
Ontario population study of 35,000+ people found cannabis use was not linked to respiratory ER visits but was associated with 22% more all-cause hospitalizations.
Cannabis substitution for opioids was common but not affected by legalization status
Survey of 44,119 cannabis consumers found 79-84% of pain users substituted cannabis for opioids, but legalization status made no significant difference.
Canadian cannabis consumers increasingly preferred legal products, except for price, over 3 years
Three-year Canadian survey found consumers increasingly viewed legal cannabis as safer and more convenient, but price remained the main barrier, especially for frequent users.
Cannabis companies use corporate social responsibility strategies similar to the tobacco industry
Analysis of 9 major cannabis companies found CSR strategies that paralleled tobacco industry tactics, encouraging consumption and targeting marginalized communities.
Synthetic Cannabinoid Use Linked to Severe Vision Loss and Unusual Eye Damage in Case Report
A 32-year-old man developed progressive bilateral vision loss and unusual black optic disc pigmentation after two years of synthetic cannabinoid (bonsai) use, a previously unreported finding.
Hidden Cannabis Use Caused Repeated Diabetic Emergencies in Type 1 Diabetes Patient
A type 1 diabetes patient was hospitalized for DKA 6 times in one year before clinicians discovered cannabis-induced hyperemesis syndrome was triggering the repeated episodes.
Recreational Cannabis Laws Initially Reduced Opioid Misuse, but the Effect Faded After 2-3 Years
National survey analysis found recreational cannabis laws initially reduced opioid misuse, but the effect faded within 2-3 years when using methods accounting for staggered adoption.
Synthetic Cannabis K2/Spice Caused Life-Threatening Lung Bleeding in a 34-Year-Old Man
A 34-year-old man developed life-threatening lung bleeding (diffuse alveolar hemorrhage) after smoking K2/Spice synthetic cannabis, successfully treated with IV steroids.
Every Dollar of Medical Cannabis Sold in Canada Was Associated With a $0.74-0.84 Drop in Alcohol Sales
Canadian economic analysis found each dollar of medical cannabis sold was associated with $0.74-$0.84 less in alcohol sales, suggesting cannabis substitutes for alcohol at the population level.
Synthetic Cannabis and Bath Salts Went Undetected in Standard Drug Screens for Patient on Opioid Treatment
Patient on buprenorphine treatment presented with psychiatric symptoms from K2 use, but standard drug screens missed the synthetic cannabinoids and cathinones, requiring advanced GC-MS testing.
Lived Experience of Heavy Drinkers Guided Development of Cannabis Substitution Resources for Alcohol Programs
Researchers and heavy drinkers co-created cannabis education resources for managed alcohol programs, establishing standard cannabis units and drawing on lived experience for harm reduction guidance.
One in five pregnant substance users reported using more than one substance during pregnancy
Nationally representative US data showed 4.3% cannabis use during pregnancy, but screening rates for cannabis (82%) lagged behind alcohol and tobacco (~95%).
Older veterans use medical cannabis as a substitute for opioids and benzodiazepines with little guidance
Interviews with 32 older veterans found they use medical cannabis to replace opioids and benzodiazepines, but face inconsistent VA policies and minimal physician guidance.
Dispensary staff broadly view medical cannabis as beneficial and low-risk
National survey of 434 dispensary staff found overwhelming positive views of medical cannabis benefits and minimal concern about risks, raising questions about balanced patient guidance.
Prenatal care providers avoid cannabis conversations to maintain patient trust
Qualitative study of 10 maternal health providers found they often avoid cannabis conversations with pregnant patients to maintain therapeutic relationships, despite recognizing this leaves patients without guidance.
More Americans now believe cannabis smoking is safer than tobacco, but science doesn't fully support that view
JAMA study found 44% of US adults now view daily cannabis smoking as safer than tobacco, up from 37% in 2017, a perception that diverges from existing evidence on smoke risks.
Secondhand marijuana smoke reached concerning levels at golf courses and other outdoor locations
Pilot study found secondhand marijuana smoke PM2.5 levels up to 149 ug/m3 at golf courses and public parks, with over 20% of golf course visits encountering exposure.
Personalized feedback based on genetic risk factors reduced cannabis use in college students
Pilot RCT found a personalized feedback program targeting sensation seeking, impulsivity, and other risk traits significantly reduced cannabis use in college freshmen.
Young children and polysubstance use predicted severe outcomes from pediatric cannabis intoxication
Prospective study of 138 pediatric cannabis intoxications found 38% required ICU care, with young age and polysubstance use as the strongest predictors of severe outcomes.
People with suspected cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome remain skeptical about the diagnosis
Interviews with 24 chronic cannabis users with cyclic vomiting found widespread skepticism about the CHS diagnosis and frustration with cessation-only treatment recommendations.
Synthetic cannabinoids showed higher toxicity than THC with more seizures, deaths, and psychiatric emergencies
Systematic review of 64 studies found synthetic cannabinoids (K2/Spice) caused more severe toxicity than THC, with 14 studies reporting deaths and seizures as common symptoms.
Delta-8 THC: The Legal-Loophole Cannabinoid That's Booming with Minimal Research
Delta-8 THC boomed after the 2018 Farm Bill accidentally legalized it, but this scoping review found almost no human safety data behind the millions of products being sold.
Driving Under the Influence of Cannabis Held Steady From 2016-2020, Even as Cannabis Use Rose 29%
National survey data from 2016-2020 found that cannabis-impaired driving among users actually decreased even as past-year cannabis use rose 29%, while alcohol-impaired driving also continued to decline.
Cannabis-Involved Traffic Injury ER Visits Rose 475% in Ontario Over a Decade, Accelerating After Commercialization
Cannabis-involved traffic injury ER visits in Ontario rose 475% from 2010-2021, accelerating after retail expansion, though they remained rare at 0.04% of all traffic injury visits.
Acute Care for Cannabis Use During Pregnancy Nearly Doubled After Legalization in Ontario
Cannabis-related acute care during pregnancy nearly doubled after legalization in Ontario, with associated increases in preterm birth and NICU admissions, though absolute numbers stayed small.
A Young Woman With Diabetes Was Misdiagnosed With Gastroparesis for Two Years Before Cannabis Was Identified as the Cause
A woman with type 1 diabetes had two years of monthly ER visits for vomiting misdiagnosed as gastroparesis, resolved completely when cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome was identified and cannabis use stopped.
National Survey Finds CBD Users Report Benefits but Also Moderate-to-Severe Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention
A national survey of 1,158 Americans found CBD users perceived it as safe and helpful, but most reported adverse effects were moderate to severe, sometimes requiring medical attention.
Cannabis Clinic Websites Promote 20 Medical Uses but Cite Low-Quality Evidence and Rarely Mention Harms
Ontario cannabis clinic websites promoted cannabis for 20 conditions using mostly low-quality evidence, and only 4 of 29 clinics mentioned any harms.
Medical Cannabis Side Effects Like Sedation and Dizziness Could Increase Workplace Injury Risk
Review of 31 systematic reviews found medical cannabis commonly causes sedation, dizziness, and euphoria, all of which could reduce workplace safety.
Drivers With Cannabis Markers in Urine Had 8x Higher Odds of Crash Involvement, Even Without Active THC in Blood
Rome study found drivers with cannabis urinary markers had 8x higher crash odds even when blood THC was below 1 ng/mL.
Cannabis User With Hyperemesis Syndrome Suffered Repeated Severe Burns From Compulsive Hot Bathing
A woman with CHS suffered repeated severe burns, sepsis, and ICU admissions from compulsive hot bathing.
Increasing Cannabis Use Made It Harder to Quit Cigarettes for People With HIV
Among 374 PWH trying to quit smoking, increasing cannabis use was associated with 78% lower odds of cigarette abstinence.
Cannabis Use Was Associated With Lower Odds of Complete Recovery From Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
15-year study of 455 CVS adults: only 19% fully recovered, with cannabis use predicting 64% lower resolution odds.
Chronic Cannabis User With Hyperemesis Syndrome Also Developed Recurrent Kidney Stones
A daily cannabis user with CHS developed recurrent kidney stones, possibly from chronic dehydration.
A Synthetic Cannabinoid 80x More Potent Than THC Was Found in Products Sold as Air Freshener in Italy
A product sold as air freshener in Italy contained 8.5 mg of the potent synthetic cannabinoid 5F-Cumyl-PINACA, causing ER visits for hallucinations, tachycardia, and breathing difficulty.
CBD Improved Antioxidant Status in Rats Over 90 Days, While CBG Caused Liver Damage and Oxidative Stress
90-day rat study found CBD improved antioxidant status safely, while CBG at similar doses caused liver damage, oxidative stress, and blood abnormalities.
Prenatal Cannabis Use Disorder Was Linked to 86% Higher Odds of Infant Death in a Study of 2.4 Million Births
Study of 2.38 million California births found prenatal cannabis use disorder linked to 45% higher preterm risk, 47% higher SGA risk, and 86% higher infant death odds.
Recreational Cannabis Laws Were Linked to Reduced Codeine Dispensing Across US Pharmacies
Recreational cannabis laws in 11 US states were associated with reduced codeine dispensing at pharmacies, while other opioid types were unaffected.
Nearly 58% of People Who Use Opioids Reported Using Cannabis to Manage Cravings, and It Was Linked to Reduced Opioid Use
Among 205 people using opioids in Vancouver, 58% used cannabis to manage cravings, and this was linked to self-reported reductions in opioid use.
When Veterans Stopped Using Opioids, They Were Also More Likely to Stop Using Cannabis and Cocaine and Report Less Pain and Anxiety
Veterans who stopped opioid use were more likely to also stop cannabis and cocaine, and reported improvements in pain and anxiety.
A 26-year-old died after using two potent synthetic cannabinoids
Fatal overdose case involving two potent synthetic cannabinoids, MDMB-4en-PINACA and 4F-ABUTINACA, in a 26-year-old male. Autopsy showed acute cardiac damage.
Massive umbrella review maps the strength of evidence for cannabis risks and benefits
Umbrella review of 101 meta-analyses found strong evidence for cannabis-psychosis and crash links, moderate therapeutic evidence for select conditions, and weak evidence for most other claims.
Cannabis and Heart Attack/Stroke Risk: A 183-Million-Patient Meta-Analysis Finds Stroke Risk but Not Heart Attack Risk
Largest-ever meta-analysis (183M patients) found cannabis use significantly associated with stroke risk but not heart attack risk — though observational data can't prove causation.
National survey mapped where Americans use cannabis and whether homes have rules about it
National survey found most cannabis use happens at home with few household rules restricting it, creating potential secondhand exposure for non-users.
Systematic review confirms marijuana smoking harms the respiratory system
Systematic review finds marijuana smoking linked to airway inflammation, chronic bronchitis, and possible associations with pneumonia and emphysema.
Blood cannabinoid profiles differed between symptomatic and asymptomatic periods in suspected CHS patients
Prospective study found whole-blood cannabinoid profiles differed between symptomatic and asymptomatic periods in ED patients with suspected cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Reddit users with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome shared triggers, remedies, and experiences
Analysis of CHS Reddit communities identified common triggers, home remedies, and patient experiences with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
A 28-year-old with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome also developed a heart rhythm abnormality
Case report of CHS presenting with ventricular bigeminy highlights potential cardiac complications of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
An 18-year-old with CHS developed dangerous phosphorus depletion from severe vomiting
Case report of severe hypophosphatemia in an 18-year-old CHS patient highlights an underrecognized electrolyte complication of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Cannabis use linked to higher complication rates after breast implant reconstruction
In a study of 243 breast reconstruction patients, 12 active cannabis users had significantly more infections, reoperations, and ER visits, though the small sample size limits conclusions.
Smoking Marijuana and Your Lungs: Chronic Bronchitis Symptoms but No Clear Long-Term Damage
Smoked marijuana causes bronchitis symptoms and airway changes, but hasn't been linked to progressive lung function decline or clearly increased lung cancer risk — a paradox given its similarity to tobacco smoke.
Adults in early opioid/stimulant recovery describe cannabis as a helpful substitution strategy
Qualitative study found 14 adults in early opioid/stimulant recovery used cannabis to manage cravings, withdrawal, and psychiatric symptoms while experiencing typical recovery benefits.
Emergency department guidelines for managing cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome
First GRADE-based emergency department guidelines for CHS recommend haloperidol/droperidol and topical capsaicin alongside standard antiemetics, though evidence certainty remains very low.
Delta-8, delta-10, and THC-O acetate poison center cases nearly doubled from 2021 to 2022
US poison center reports for delta-8, delta-10, and THC-O acetate nearly doubled from 2021 to 2022, reaching 5,022 cases. Children under 6 made up 30% of cases, and 38% had serious outcomes.
Nearly two-thirds of regular cannabis users at French music festivals met criteria for dependence
Survey of 194 regular cannabis users at French music festivals found 63.4% met dependence criteria, with over 40% reporting health or social consequences and higher rates of stimulant and hallucinogen co-use.
Personality-targeted school program reduced cannabis-related harms over 7 years
A brief two-session personality-targeted school program reduced cannabis-related harms by 22% over 7 years in high-risk Australian adolescents, though it did not significantly reduce cannabis use itself.
Cannabis alone was not linked to higher crash risk in ER patients, but combining it with alcohol was
Multi-site ED study found cannabis use alone was not linked to higher crash risk, while alcohol alone and alcohol-cannabis combined both increased motor vehicle collision odds, with high cannabis use paradoxically associated with lower crash risk.
Droperidol plus diphenhydramine rapidly improved CHS symptoms in the emergency department
Prospective study of 47 CHS patients found droperidol plus diphenhydramine reduced nausea scores from 8.3 to 1.4 and pain from 7.8 to 1.7 within 2 hours, with 12.9% returning to the ED within a week.
Sharing cannabis bongs linked to 4x higher tuberculosis risk in Thailand
Thai case-control study found sharing cannabis bongs associated with 4.2x higher TB odds, with a population-attributable fraction (12.2%) nearly equal to tobacco smoking (12.6%), suggesting device sharing is the key risk behavior.
Nearly half of Oklahoma adults reported secondhand cannabis smoke exposure, linked to respiratory symptoms
Survey of 5,410 Oklahoma adults found 42% had recent secondhand cannabis smoke exposure, with higher respiratory symptoms especially among those who also used cannabis, and disproportionate exposure among young, minority, and lower-SES populations.
Brief incentivized abstinence changed cannabis attitudes and reduced use even after incentives stopped
RCT of 220 non-treatment-seeking youth found 4 weeks of incentivized abstinence reduced cannabis use and shifted 68% toward reduction goals, with benefits persisting 4 weeks after incentives ended, especially in those without CUD.
Cannabis edible packaging style influences preferences more than warning labels
Choice experiment with 1,578 adults found cannabis edible preferences driven primarily by package style (33-51%) and health claims (23-31%), with cannabis users preferring youth-appealing designs and warning labels having minimal influence.
Cannabis use neither helped nor hurt opioid treatment outcomes in people with opioid use disorder
Meta-analysis of 10 studies and 8,367 participants found cannabis use had no effect on non-medical opioid use during OUD treatment (OR=1.00), challenging policies that require cannabis abstinence for opioid medication access.
Suspected cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome ED visits nearly tripled in Northern California over 11 years
Over 57,000 Kaiser Permanente patients in Northern California had suspected CHS ED visits from 2009-2019, with prevalence nearly tripling (175% increase) over the period.
Digital interventions reduced young adults cannabis use by nearly 7 days per month
Meta-analysis of 19 RCTs found digital interventions reduced young adult cannabis use by nearly 7 fewer days per month at 3-month follow-up, with personalized feedback being the most common active ingredient across programs.
Online school program slowed substance use uptake in Australian teens but had limited effect on cannabis use
A cluster RCT of 950 Australian students found an online harm reduction program slowed uptake of binge drinking, cocaine, and prescription drug misuse over 12 months, but had no significant effect on cannabis use.
A Michigan program donated cannabis to people using more dangerous drugs as a harm reduction strategy
A rural Michigan harm reduction program documented the first US case study of cannabis donation to people using more dangerous substances, finding it was operationally feasible and financially sustainable.
An estimated 1.8 million UK adults use illicit cannabis to self-treat chronic health conditions despite legal medical options
UK survey estimated 1.77 million adults use illicit cannabis to self-treat chronic health conditions, despite legal medical cannabis being available since 2018, highlighting barriers to accessing prescribed products.
Survey of HHC users found they used it about 10 days per month, mostly for anxiety and pain, with some reporting withdrawal
First systematic survey of 109 HHC users found frequent use (~10 days/month) primarily for anxiety and pain, with 17% reporting adverse effects and 20% of quitters experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Researchers found a potential antidote for synthetic cannabinoid overdose that works without triggering withdrawal
A negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptor reversed synthetic cannabinoid effects in mice even after exposure, without triggering withdrawal, offering a potential first antidote for cannabinoid overdose.
People who inject drugs in Los Angeles reported using cannabis to help reduce their opioid use
Qualitative interviews with 30 people who inject drugs in LA revealed three ways cannabis co-use facilitated reduced opioid use: maintaining cessation, managing withdrawal, and leveraging easier accessibility.
Pregnant people who used cannabis made conscious decisions to reduce harm by changing amounts, products, and sources
Interviews with 19 BIPOC pregnant cannabis users in California found they actively practiced harm reduction by reducing amounts, switching product types, and seeking regulated sources.
What pregnant cannabis users say about managing symptoms on an anonymous online forum
Qualitative analysis of an online pro-cannabis pregnancy forum found pregnant people described using cannabis for mental health, nausea, pain, and stress, often as an alternative to prescribed medications.
Nearly half of adults in Canada's northern territories use cannabis, with most buying from legal sources
A survey of 2,462 adults in Canada's northern territories found 46% used cannabis, 22% daily, with three-quarters of products coming from legal sources.
Youth, parents, and providers in Ontario described barriers to reducing cannabis harms after legalization
Interviews with 88 Ontario youth, parents, and providers found widespread concern about cannabis harms alongside normalization, with structural barriers hampering harm reduction efforts.
Nearly 1 in 4 Opioid Addiction Patients Use CBD — Mostly for Anxiety, Pain, and Sleep
Survey of 550 opioid addiction patients found 23% use CBD — primarily for anxiety, pain, and sleep, with 42% using it specifically for withdrawal relief.
Over a quarter of New England tobacco users who vape are vaping both nicotine and cannabis
Survey of 1,547 New England tobacco users found 26% were dual-vaping nicotine and cannabis, with anxiety and male sex as key correlates.
Does Recreational Cannabis Use Affect Bone Density?
A systematic review found only four studies on recreational cannabis and bone density, with conflicting results.
How Cannabis Adverse Events Changed After Canada Legalized Recreational Use
A study of 18,285 Canadian cannabis users found similar adverse event rates before and after legalization, but ER visits increased while edible-related problems decreased.
Can Cannabinoids Help Treat Alcohol Use Disorder?
A review found that the endocannabinoid system modulates alcohol reward, suggesting cannabinoids could help treat alcohol use disorder, but concurrent use carries additional risks.
Cannabis Hyperemesis Hospitalizations Rose After Massachusetts Legalization
CHS hospitalizations increased fivefold after Massachusetts cannabis legalization, with hospital stays tripling and costs more than doubling per admission.
A 7-Year-Old's Heart Stopped After Accidentally Eating THC Gummies
A 7-year-old experienced cardiac arrest 7 hours after eating THC gummies, the first pediatric case of THC-induced asystole.
Cannabis Health Warnings on Products Can Change Attitudes and Intentions
Cannabis health warnings triggered fear and hope, both driving protective intentions, though pictures added no benefit over text.
Reducing Cannabis Use by 50-75% Was Enough to See Real Improvements
Analysis of 920 participants found reducing cannabis use ~50% in frequency and ~75% in amount was associated with clinician-assessed improvement.
A Clinician's Guide to Diagnosing and Treating Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
A clinical review highlights that CHS is under-diagnosed, resists standard anti-nausea drugs, and requires abstinence for long-term resolution.
Most US states with legal cannabis have weak, wordy warning labels that skip mental health risks
Content analysis finds most US states with legal cannabis have weak warning labels averaging 57 words, with almost none requiring mental health or psychosis risk warnings.
Pregnant people who use cannabis for nausea face stigma from providers while medication users get only support
Pregnant people using cannabis for nausea reported stigmatizing reactions from healthcare providers, leading many to conceal their use, while medication users received only positive feedback.
Teens treated for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome face dangerous heart rhythm risks from both the condition and its treatment
Two adolescent CHS cases and a literature review reveal dangerous QTc prolongation risks when haloperidol treatment compounds the cardiac effects of cannabis and electrolyte imbalances from vomiting.
A single education session significantly improved hospital staff knowledge about medical marijuana
A single educational session on medical marijuana significantly improved knowledge across all provider types, while chart review revealed 83% of marijuana-using patients had potential drug interactions.
Surgeons need to know their patients use cannabis because it affects every phase of surgical care
JAMA review finds cannabis use affects every surgical care phase from anesthesia dosing to wound healing and drug interactions, yet most patients do not disclose use to surgeons.
Mississippi high schoolers who use cannabis are also more likely to vape, drink, and smoke tobacco
Mississippi YRBS data shows cannabis use among high schoolers clusters with vaping, tobacco, alcohol, and sexual behaviors, with no gender or racial differences in cannabis use rates.
Combined amphetamine and cannabis abuse altered white blood cells and increased fungal infections
Study of 50 people who abused both amphetamines and cannabis found significant white blood cell changes and 70% positive for fungal lung infections.
Cannabis users needed nearly twice as many opioids after spinal fusion surgery
Opioid-naive cannabis users needed nearly twice the morphine equivalent doses after spinal fusion surgery compared to non-users, despite having fewer overall health problems.
Cannabis use disorder was not linked to worse outcomes after complex cancer surgery
Among 15,014 matched cancer surgery patients, cannabis use disorder was not independently associated with worse overall outcomes, though kidney injury was slightly elevated.
Cannabis-involved self-harm ER visits nearly doubled over 12 years in Ontario, accelerating after medical cannabis liberalization
Cannabis-involved self-harm ER visits increased 90% over 12 years in Ontario after medical liberalization, while alcohol-involved self-harm declined.
Testing a Web Tool to Help Teen Drivers Avoid Cannabis- and Alcohol-Impaired Driving
A web-based tool for teen drivers addressing cannabis and alcohol impaired driving showed strong acceptability in early testing, with nearly all participants finding it helpful.
ER Visits for Cannabis Intoxication Jumped After Michigan Legalized Recreational Use
Cannabis-related ER visits in Michigan rose 47-70% immediately after recreational legalization across 8 hospitals.
Why We Urgently Need Better Treatments for People Who Use Both Tobacco and Cannabis
Only 9 studies address tobacco-cannabis co-use treatment. Combined therapy showed promise with no compensatory use.
A Case of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Initially Misdiagnosed
Case of CHS misdiagnosed in a chronic cannabis user, resolving after cessation.
Cannabis Was the Most Common Psychedelic to Cause Skin Reactions
Review found cannabis caused the most skin reactions among psychedelics/hallucinogens, primarily allergic reactions from topical exposure, with MDMA, ketamine, and psilocybin also documented.
Cannabis Edible Packaging Borrows Marketing Tricks from the Food Industry
Content analysis of 1,229 cannabis edible packages found widespread use of health-oriented descriptors, food imagery, and experience-based marketing borrowing from mainstream food industry practices.
45% of People Who Use Both Cannabis and Stimulants Report Using Cannabis to Manage Stimulant Cravings
Among 297 people using both cannabis and stimulants in Vancouver, 45% reported using cannabis to manage stimulant cravings, with 78% of those reporting decreased stimulant use.
Cannabis Use Disorder Linked to Longer ICU Stays but Not Higher Death Rates in Australian Hospitals
Among 34,680 Australian ICU admissions, cannabis-associated patients were younger with fewer comorbidities but stayed longer (2 vs 1 days), with no mortality difference after adjustment.
Substance-Related ER Visits by Youth Increased From 2018 to 2023, With Cannabis Visits Nearly Doubling
Cannabis-related ER visits by youth nearly doubled from 2018 to 2023 across six urban hospitals, with notable increases among younger teens and female patients.
AGA Clinical Practice Update Provides Expert Guidance on Diagnosing and Managing Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
The AGA issued its first clinical practice update on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, providing peer-reviewed expert guidance on diagnosis and management.
Five Genetic Mutations Identified That May Explain Why Some Heavy Cannabis Users Develop Hyperemesis Syndrome
Five genetic mutations have been identified that distinguish CHS patients from asymptomatic heavy cannabis users, affecting THC metabolism, dopamine signaling, and the TRPV1 receptor.
Systematic Review Finds Limited Evidence for CHS Treatments, With Dopamine Antagonists Showing More Promise Than Capsaicin
Systematic review found mixed evidence for capsaicin and potentially beneficial evidence for dopamine antagonists (haloperidol, droperidol) in treating CHS in the emergency department.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Is Increasingly Common but Often Missed
Review describes rising CHS prevalence with legalization, recommending benzodiazepines for acute attacks and amitriptyline (50-200 mg/day) for long-term prevention, with cannabis cessation as the definitive treatment.
Deadly Synthetic Opioid Found Hidden in THC Vape Products in Australia
Two Australian cases of opioid toxicity from THC vape products containing the potent synthetic opioid protonitazene, including one death, highlight a dangerous new contamination threat.
People Who Think Secondhand Cannabis Smoke Is Harmful Are Less Likely to Smoke at Home
21-country survey of 28,154 drug users found higher perceived harm from secondhand cannabis smoke was associated with 70% greater odds of not smoking cannabis at home.
Believing Secondhand Cannabis Smoke Is Harmful Was Strongly Linked to Home Smoking Bans
US survey of 21,381 adults found perceiving secondhand cannabis smoke as "extremely harmful" was associated with 6x higher odds of banning cannabis smoking in the home.
Most Cannabis Users Worldwide Smoke at Home, Exposing Others to Secondhand Smoke
Global Drug Survey of 64,000 cannabis users found about 64% smoked at home, with daily home smoking in roughly 25-28%, raising concerns about residential secondhand smoke exposure.
Large New Zealand Survey Finds 60% of Cannabis Users Report Using Less Alcohol and Synthetic Cannabinoids
Survey of 23,500 New Zealand cannabis users found 60% reported using less alcohol due to cannabis, with substitution patterns varying by age, ethnicity, and urban/rural location.
Cannabis Vaping and Smoking Trigger the Same Inflammatory and Cancer Gene Pathways in Lung Cells
Despite fewer toxicants in vapor, cannabis vaping triggered the same inflammatory, cancer, and stress gene pathways in lung cells as smoking — questioning the harm reduction narrative at the molecular level.
4 in 10 Opioid Treatment Patients Also Used Cannabis
In a study of 128 opioid maintenance therapy patients, 41% used cannabis and 73% of those met dependence criteria, with medication type influencing use patterns.
Why French Cannabis Users Grow Their Own Despite Prohibition
Study of daily cannabis users in France found 11-16% grew their own, primarily to control quality, with growers more likely to use cannabis therapeutically and avoid tobacco.
6 in 10 Opioid Treatment Patients Used Cannabis, Most as a Harm Reduction Strategy
Survey of 118 German opioid maintenance patients found 60% used cannabis, with most using it as a deliberate harm reduction strategy to reduce heroin and benzodiazepine use.
Brief Interventions in Medical Settings Did Not Reduce Cannabis Use
Meta-analysis of 17 RCTs found brief drug interventions did not reduce cannabis use in general medical settings, though emergency department delivery showed some promise.
Over Half of Injured Canadian Drivers Had Drugs or Alcohol in Their Blood — THC Was the Most Common Drug
Blood tests from 8,328 injured Canadian drivers found 54.9% positive for at least one substance — THC was the most common drug detected after alcohol in this post-legalization dataset.
A digital harm reduction app was feasible and acceptable for young adults with first-episode psychosis who use cannabis
Pilot trial with 101 young adults with psychosis found a digital cannabis harm reduction app was feasible (82% retention) and showed early signals of benefit.
Researchers Built a Cannabis Harm-Reduction App With Young Adults and It Tested Well
A cannabis harm-reduction app co-designed with young adults scored 4.43/5.0 on usability and is now being evaluated for efficacy.
Synthetic Cannabinoids Found Hidden in Tianeptine Products Sold at Gas Stations
34 severe poisonings in New Jersey linked to gas station tianeptine products adulterated with synthetic cannabinoids. 43% required intubation.
Synthetic Cannabinoids Found in Vapes at Three-Quarters of Tested English Schools
Synthetic cannabinoids found in vapes at 78% of 27 English secondary schools tested, with prevalence tied to socioeconomic deprivation.
Potent Synthetic Cannabinoid Found in All Seven Disposable Vapes Sold as Cannabis
Seven disposable vapes sold as cannabis in the UK all contained synthetic cannabinoid 5F-MDMB-PICA at 0.85 mg/mL median, with zero natural cannabinoids.
An Interdisciplinary Cannabis Training Program Improved Healthcare Trainees' Confidence
345 healthcare trainees across four disciplines completed a cannabis education program; 96% reported improved ability to counsel patients.
Three Novel Synthetic THC Analogs Identified in European Consumer Products
Three novel semisynthetic THC analogs found in European products marketed as "CB9," "tresconol," and "CBx." No safety data exists for any of them.
Review: four years of cat-and-mouse chemistry as manufacturers evade China's synthetic cannabinoid ban
A review of four years since China's 2021 synthetic cannabinoid ban documents at least six chemical strategies manufacturers use to evade the legislation, including a DIY synthesis approach that converts legal precursors into potent banned compounds.
National survey maps how cannabis use methods vary by age, race, sex, and income in the US
A national survey of 17,000 US cannabis users found smoking dominant (77%) but methods varied by demographics: women preferred topicals, young adults vaped, Black adults were 5.3x more likely to use blunts, and older adults used sublingual products.
Naloxone reversed suspected synthetic cannabinoid overdose despite negative opioid tests
A patient with suspected K2 overdose repeatedly improved with naloxone despite negative opioid and synthetic cannabinoid screens, highlighting the limitations of current toxicology testing and the potential value of naloxone in undifferentiated overdose.
Vaping concentrates was linked to increasing cannabis problems while edible users had fewer issues
Among 338 young adults, those who primarily vaped cannabis concentrates showed increasing use and problems over time, while edible users had fewer issues due to less frequent use, suggesting different consumption methods carry different addiction risks.
How different ways of using cannabis affect outcomes depends on how often you use each method
A 30-day tracking study found that the consequences of different cannabis consumption methods varied based on how often individuals used each method, with infrequent edible users experiencing more negative effects than frequent users.
What emergency departments should expect as cannabis legalization expands in Germany
A review of international trends suggests Germany should expect more cannabis-related ER visits after legalization, with Canada seeing doubled hospital admissions and acute intoxication as the top reason.
A case of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome causing dangerous lactic acid buildup
A case report documents cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome causing lactate levels of 6.1 mmol/L, showing the condition can produce serious metabolic complications from severe dehydration and pain.
German food safety panel warns CBD supplements may cause liver harm without proven benefits
Germany's food safety commission found CBD supplement doses on the market can reach levels causing liver enzyme changes (4.3 mg/kg/day), while no health benefit claims were supported at any tested dose.
Six distinct patterns of daily substance use identified among US young adults
A 14-day study of 590 young adults identified six patterns of substance use days, with cannabis involved in four of the six patterns and multimodal cannabis use linked to the highest stress and boredom.
Two-thirds of cannabis users in legal states also use tobacco, and simultaneous use is linked to more cannabis problems
A survey of nearly 3,000 cannabis users in legal US states found two-thirds also used tobacco, with simultaneous use linked to higher cannabis problem severity.
Cannabis use was associated with 40% lower risk of alcohol-related liver disease among heavy drinkers
Among 33,000+ matched people with alcohol use disorder, cannabis use disorder was associated with 40% lower risk of alcohol-related liver disease and 14% lower mortality.
A child died after ingesting hashish, with hair analysis revealing chronic exposure to multiple drugs
A child died after eating hashish, with forensic analysis revealing chronic exposure to multiple drugs including THC, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl.
Medical cannabis in a residential recovery program showed promise for reducing cravings and substance use
A pilot in a residential recovery program found clients and staff reported medical cannabis reduced cravings and managed symptoms.
Cannabis Users See Similar Health Risks for Vaping and Smoking, With Some Exceptions
Survey of 302 cannabis users found few perceived differences between vaping and smoking risks, though younger users and women saw more mental health benefits from vaping.
Cannabis and CBD Users Often Use Both for the Same Reasons
European survey of 35,789 cannabis users found 42% also used CBD for similar reasons.
Cannabis Exposure in Young Children Prompted Child Protection Involvement in Every Case
Ten-year study: all young children testing positive for cannabis had child protection activation, but caregivers rarely disclosed.
Cannabis Compassion Clubs Created Harm Reduction Through Access, Safety, and Quality
BC cannabis compassion clubs created harm reduction through structural (access, safety, quality) and operational (compassion, low-threshold) dimensions.
Legal Cannabis Vape Products Contained Metal Particles from the Vaping Device Itself
Legal Canadian cannabis vape products contained metal particles from device components in both liquid and inhaled aerosol.
Researchers identify a dose threshold for delta-8 THC toxicity in young children
Analysis of 232 pediatric delta-8 THC ingestions found a dose of 1.7 mg/kg identified 98% of cases progressing to severe toxicity, establishing the first clinical reference threshold.
A Culturally Tailored Phone App for Cannabis Use Disorder in Black Adults: Proof-of-Concept Trial
Culturally tailored mobile app for Black adults with cannabis use disorder showed strong feasibility and acceptability plus preliminary efficacy signals in a 50-person proof-of-concept RCT.
Six distinct cannabis user profiles reveal that using many product types may matter more than frequency alone
Six cannabis user profiles were identified in Washington State, with polymodal users (multiple product types) reporting more adverse events than even the most frequent single-product users.
Marijuana use was the strongest predictor of dry mouth across all age groups in a dental clinic study
In 1,600 dental patients, marijuana use was the single strongest predictor of dry mouth across all age groups, with 3.1 times higher risk.
Most CBD users are taking prescription medications that could interact with it
Nearly 70% of CBD users in an ED survey were taking prescription medications with known drug interaction potential, primarily antidepressants and blood pressure medications.
Cannabis smoking harms the lungs but its link to lung cancer remains surprisingly unclear
Cannabis smoking clearly causes bronchitis symptoms and impairs lung immune function, but decades of research have failed to establish a consistent link to lung cancer despite the presence of known carcinogens in the smoke.
Nearly one in four men who have sex with men use drugs during sex, including cannabis at 18%
Meta-analysis of 238 studies found 22% of men who have sex with men engage in chemsex, with cannabis (18%) being the second most commonly used substance in sexual contexts.
Medical cannabis improved quality of life and reduced opioid use in people with substance use disorder
In 34 UK patients with substance use disorder, medical cannabis improved anxiety, sleep, and quality of life while reducing prescribed opioid doses over six months, with good tolerability.
Cannabis flower products frequently overstate THC potency on labels while concentrates are more accurate
Independent testing of 277 Colorado cannabis products found flower THC labels are frequently inflated (only 57% accurate), while concentrate labels are much more reliable (96% accurate).
Cannabis and tobacco use signal underlying social hardship even at low frequency
Cannabis and tobacco use at any frequency signaled elevated social hardship in 77,000 healthcare users, while binge drinking showed this pattern only at daily frequency.
Young adult cannabis use increased more in states with full legalization than medical-only states
Cannabis use among young adults increased more in states with adult-use legalization than medical-only states, with retail outlet opening appearing to be the key inflection point.
Psychedelic experiences produced both more positive and more negative effects than cannabis experiences
Psychedelic experiences produced both more positive and more negative effects than cannabis in demographically representative samples, revealing a wider risk-benefit spectrum rather than simply higher risk.
Hemp Cigarettes Contain Similar Metal Levels as Tobacco, with Lower Cadmium but Higher Chromium in Some Brands
Lab analysis of 14 hemp cigarette brands found metal levels similar to tobacco, with lower cadmium but several brands exceeding state limits for other metals.
Simultaneous Alcohol and Cannabis Use Linked to More Alcohol Problems Than Using Them Separately
Daily diary study of 116 young adults found simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use (overlapping effects) was linked to roughly double the alcohol-related consequences compared to same-day use without overlap.
Best Treatments for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
Systematic review of 63 CHS cases found capsaicin cream, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines more effective than standard anti-nausea medications, leading to a proposed treatment algorithm.
Capsaicin Cream Helped Treat Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome During Pregnancy
Case report of a pregnant woman with CHS unresponsive to standard anti-emetics who improved significantly with topical capsaicin cream.
Suspected Cannabinoid Hyperemesis ER Visits Among Youth Rose 28% Per Year
National ER data showed suspected CHS visits among youth (15-24) topped 55,000 from 2006-2020, with an average annual increase of 28.1%.
Synthetic Cannabinoids Make Fentanyl Overdoses Harder to Reverse with Naloxone
Mouse study found synthetic cannabinoids combined with fentanyl worsened respiratory depression and made naloxone rescue less effective, explaining some naloxone-resistant overdoses.
Vaped Cannabis Reduced the Severity of Naloxone-Precipitated Opioid Withdrawal in One Patient
Proof-of-concept with a single OUD patient found vaped cannabis dose-dependently reduced naloxone-precipitated withdrawal scores from 22 to 14 without dangerous vital sign changes.
American College of Physicians Issues New Guidance on Cannabis for Chronic Pain
The American College of Physicians issued best practice advice telling clinicians to discuss cannabis benefits and harms with chronic pain patients, while identifying youth, pregnant patients, those with substance use disorders, and frail patients as groups where harms likely outweigh benefits.
Droperidol Cuts ER Time by 36% for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
In 211 ER encounters for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, droperidol was associated with 24% shorter stays, fewer medications, and 84% lower odds of opioid use, with only 2 mild adverse reactions.
More Cannabis Stores in Washington Counties Linked to Fewer Opioid and Accidental Poisoning Deaths
Washington state counties with more cannabis stores per capita had 17% lower accidental poisoning and opioid death rates from 2009-2020, with no increase in motor vehicle, suicide, or homicide mortality.
Cannabis Users Face More Surgical Complications After Hand Fracture Repair Than Non-Users
Among 80,787 hand fracture surgery patients, cannabis users had higher complication rates than non-users for infections, cardiac events, and malunion, though fewer complications than tobacco users.
Wisconsin Restaurant Accidentally Serves THC-Laced Food, Sickening 85 People
A Wisconsin restaurant accidentally used hemp-derived THC cooking oil from a shared kitchen, causing 85 people to experience THC intoxication over three days in October 2024.
Daily Cannabis Use Linked to 40% Higher Rates of Quitting Illicit Opioids Among People with Chronic Pain
Among 1,242 people with chronic pain using illicit opioids in Vancouver, daily cannabis use was associated with 40% higher rates of opioid cessation, with effects stronger in men.
Cannabis Use in People With HIV Linked to Reduced Inflammation and Improved Gut Health
A review found cannabis use in people with HIV is associated with reduced inflammation, improved gut health, and unique microbiome changes, though HIV reservoir effects remain unclear.
Most Pregnant Cannabis Users Complete Substance Use Assessment When a Comprehensive Program Exists
In a Kaiser prenatal program, 80% of 20,398 cannabis-positive pregnancies completed assessment and 88% of those needing help attended counseling.
About 1 in 4 Cannabis Home Growers Used Chemical Additives, With Rates Declining Over Time
A survey of 11,479 cannabis growers across 18 countries found about 1 in 4 used chemical additives, but rates appear to be declining over the past decade.
Cannabis Users Had 3x Higher Odds of Serious Complications After Heart Attacks
Among 772 heart attack patients across 39 French hospitals, 11% tested positive for cannabis and had over 3 times the odds of serious in-hospital complications like cardiac arrest or death.
More Sitting Time Was Linked to Lower Marijuana Use, With Differences Across Ethnic Groups
Analysis of over 7,000 US adults found that those who sat for 6-8 hours daily were 22% less likely to report marijuana use, with the strongest pattern among Hispanic adults.
Cannabis Flower Labels Consistently Overstated THC Content Compared to Independent Testing
Independent testing of 74 Colorado cannabis products found flower labels consistently overstated THC content, sometimes beyond the 15% legally allowed variance.
Specific, Concrete Cannabis Warning Labels Held Attention and Improved Risk Recognition Better Than Generic Ones
An eye-tracking study found specific, concrete cannabis warning labels captured more attention and improved risk recognition among young adults compared to generic labels.
Cannabis Use in Pregnancy Linked to Preterm Birth, Low Birth Weight, and Small Babies Even After Accounting for Tobacco
A meta-analysis of 51 studies and 21 million pregnancies found cannabis use was associated with 52-75% higher odds of preterm birth, low birth weight, and small babies, even after accounting for tobacco use.
Young Adults Using Both Cannabis and Derived Products Reported More Negative Consequences
Among 1,968 young adult cannabis users, those who also used derived products like Delta-8 reported more negative consequences than cannabis-only users, with coping and enhancement motives driving co-use.
Most US States With Legal Cannabis Had Social Equity Programs, but They Varied Widely
A review of 22 US states with legal cannabis found most had social equity programs, but only 4 directed tax revenue back to equity initiatives and programs varied widely in scope.
Most Young Adults Incorrectly Believed Derived Cannabis Products Were FDA-Approved or Safety-Tested
A survey of 4,031 young adults found 70% incorrectly believed derived cannabis products like Delta-8 were safety-tested and 59% thought they were FDA-approved.
Australian Street Cannabis Averaged 12% THC With Almost No CBD, and Users Could Not Gauge Potency
Testing of 127 Australian street cannabis samples found average 12% THC with almost no CBD, and users could not accurately judge potency from their experience.
Cannabinoid Vaping Products Contain High Concentrations and Potentially Toxic Byproducts
A review found unregulated cannabinoid vaping products contain high concentrations and produce potentially toxic heating byproducts called quinones that may damage lung tissue.
Cannabis Dispensaries Were More Likely Located in Neighborhoods With Higher Black and Hispanic Populations
A national analysis of 3,167 dispensaries found they were twice as likely to be in neighborhoods with high Black populations and far less likely in areas with high homeownership.
How You Use Cannabis Matters: Bongs Predicted the Most Health Effects in Young Adults
A 14-day daily survey study found bong use predicted the most health effects among young cannabis users, with notable sex differences in how joints, edibles, and pipes affected males versus females.
71% of Arizona Budtenders Recommended Cannabis Products for Morning Sickness
Mystery calls to 104 Arizona dispensaries found 71% of budtenders recommended cannabis for morning sickness, with only one-third proactively suggesting medical consultation first.
Cannabis Users Knew Less About Its Negative Effects Than Non-Users in an ER Survey
ER survey found cannabis users scored significantly lower on knowledge of negative effects than non-users, with anxiety and pain the top reasons for use.
Cannabis Was the Most Commonly Detected Substance in Assault-Injured Black Men in Baltimore
Among 1,922 assault-injured Black men in Baltimore, cannabis was detected most often (42.5%) and was associated with firearm injuries rather than stabbings or blunt force.
Most Canadians Support Cannabis Regulations, Even Many Who Use Cannabis
Survey of nearly 17,000 Canadians found majority support for cannabis health warnings and legalization, with regulations broadly accepted even by daily consumers.
Clinicians Say Tobacco Cessation Should Be Integrated Into Cannabis Treatment Services
Focus groups with 15 clinicians found tobacco cessation is overlooked in cannabis treatment settings, with healthcare fragmentation and training gaps as key barriers.
Cannabis Users Mostly Ignore Health Warnings on Products and Doubt Their Accuracy
Focus groups with 77 cannabis consumers found most ignore existing product warnings and want cited sources, direct language, and visuals to make health warnings credible.
SUD Treatment Patients Mostly Smoke Cannabis Flower but THC Content Drives Their Product Choices
Survey of 472 SUD treatment patients found cannabis flower dominates use patterns, with THC potency driving purchases, though some chose CBD for perceived medical benefits.
Most Dentists Do Not Screen Teens for Cannabis Use Despite Being Willing To
National survey finds only a third of US dentists screen teens for cannabis use annually, and most who screen never provide counseling, despite expressing willingness.
Parents Divided on CBD Product Safety for Children
Survey finds U.S. parents split on CBD product safety for children, with many unaware of rising pediatric poison control calls.
Cannabis Impairs Driving in Simulator Study, Even When Users Feel Fine
Randomized simulator trial finds cannabis impairs driving performance even when users feel capable, highlighting a dangerous perception gap.
Cannabis-Related Hospitalizations Rose in Arizona Between 2016 and 2021
Arizona cannabis-related hospitalizations rose significantly from 2016 to 2021, spanning the pre- and post-recreational legalization period.
Cannabis Use Disorder Admissions Rising Among Pregnant Women
Hospital admissions for cannabis use disorder among pregnant women are increasing, highlighting a growing clinical concern around prenatal cannabis exposure.
Lancet Review Warns of Public Health Risks From Cannabis Legalization
Lancet review catalogs adverse public health effects of cannabis legalization including more ER visits, impaired driving, and pediatric exposures.
1,052-Person Survey Reveals Heavy Burden of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
Survey of 1,052 CHS sufferers finds high ER and hospital use, with heavy daily cannabis use and adolescent onset linked to more frequent episodes.
Cannabis Vape Ads Linked to More Vaping Among Young Adults
Survey of 2,204 young adults finds cannabis vape advertising exposure, especially on social media, is linked to higher use rates and frequency.
28 Synthetic Cannabinoids Tested Show Full Agonism and Unpredictable Activity
Lab testing of 28 synthetic cannabinoids finds most are potent full agonists unlike THC, with unpredictable pharmacological behavior that defies simple structure-activity predictions.
New Treatment Approaches Emerging for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
Updated CHS management review recommends dopamine antagonists for acute episodes and treating underlying mental health conditions alongside THC cessation.
Clinicians Say Nausea Drives Most Prenatal Cannabis Use
Mental health clinicians identify nausea as the top driver of prenatal cannabis use, with patients relying on peers for information more than healthcare providers.
Anxiety and Tobacco Use Predict Cannabis Problems in People With HIV
Among 973 people with HIV, anxiety and tobacco use were the strongest predictors of higher-risk cannabis use, with over a third screening positive for cannabis use disorder risk.
43% of Australian Medical Cannabis Users Met Criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder
Survey of 1,796 Australian medical cannabis users finds 43% met CUD criteria, with use frequency and mental health mattering more than whether cannabis was prescribed.
Warning Labels on Cannabis Posts Reduce Sharing and Dampen Brain Self-Relevance
Warning labels on cannabis social media posts reduce sharing intentions in 1,776 people and dampen self-relevance processing in the brain, revealing the mechanism behind their effectiveness.
Cannabis Use Doesn't Reduce Physical Activity in Teens, Unlike Tobacco
Study of 358,391 young people across 45 countries finds cannabis use has no significant link to reduced physical activity, while tobacco use consistently does.
Cannabis-Positive ER Tests in Israel Rose Modestly Despite Prescription Surge
Israeli ER data shows cannabis-positive urine tests rose modestly from 15.4% to 17.6% over 8 years despite exponential growth in cannabis prescriptions.
Legalizing Cannabis Edibles Increased Teen Cannabis Use by 26% in Canada
JAMA study of 106,032 Canadian students finds legalizing cannabis edibles increased teen use by 26%, edible consumption by 43%, and cannabis smoking by 34%.
Both Smoking and Eating Cannabis Damage Blood Vessel Function, JAMA Study Finds
JAMA Cardiology study finds both cannabis smoking and THC edibles impair blood vessel function comparably to tobacco, though through apparently different mechanisms.
Ireland's HHC Problem: What Happened When a Synthetic Cannabinoid Went Mainstream
Over a third of Irish drug users tried HHC before its 2025 ban, with 90% reporting negative effects—a cautionary tale about legal synthetic cannabinoid alternatives.
Cannabis Legalization Cut Drug Seizures and Modestly Reduced Racial Disparities
NIBRS analysis finds cannabis legalization cut overall drug seizures and modestly reduced Black-white disparities in cannabis enforcement, but racial gaps persisted for other drugs.
Cannabis Advertising Uses Tobacco Industry Playbook, Review Finds
Review finds cannabis advertising mirrors tobacco marketing tactics including price promotions and social media, with widespread exposure among youth and adults linked to increased use.
Medical Cannabis Laws Linked to More Teen Use, Perceived Penalties Linked to Less
National survey finds medical cannabis laws increase and perceived penalties decrease teen cannabis use, with legalization weakening the protective effect of social bonds.
Cannabis Pain Research May Be Measuring the Wrong Things, Experts Argue
Experts argue cannabis pain trials measure the wrong things: patients value psychological coping, sleep, and opioid reduction more than direct pain relief.
Cannabis Concentrate Vaping Produces Substantial Toxic Byproducts
Review finds cannabis concentrate vaping produces significant toxic byproducts and some products contain hazardous additives, as research lags far behind market growth.
Comprehensive Review of 89 Studies Concludes Cannabis Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy
The most comprehensive review to date (89 studies) finds prenatal cannabis exposure harmful for fetal growth and development, concluding cannabis should be avoided during pregnancy.
Canada's Legal Age for Cannabis May Be Protecting Youth From Hospitalizations
A population-based Canadian study found cannabis-related hospitalizations dropped 34% among youth below the legal purchase age after legalization, while continuing to rise among adults above it.
Illicit Cannabis Still Dominates in Many Legal States, and Hemp-Derived THC Is a Growing Wild Card
A 12-state US study found illicit cannabis persists alongside legal markets, hemp-derived THC is growing rapidly in regulatory gaps, and THC products dominate 90%+ of all cannabis market value.
Cannabis Sales Were Linked to More Drug- and Alcohol-Related Crashes in Quebec
A Quebec study found that higher cannabis sales were linked to 12% more drug-related and 12% more alcohol-related traffic crashes across five cities, with Montreal showing 87-93% increases.
YouTube Videos Portray Delta-8 THC as a Legal, Milder Cannabis Alternative
An analysis of 47 YouTube videos found Delta-8 THC portrayed as a legal, milder cannabis alternative with easy access, while few videos were age-restricted.
Nearly Half of Cannabis Users in This Survey Had Tried Semi-Synthetic Cannabinoids
Survey of 229 cannabis users found 44.5% had used semi-synthetic cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC and THCP, with adverse effects reported across all product types.
Cannabis Industry Workers Are Developing Work-Related Asthma
Multi-state surveillance identified 30 cases of work-related asthma in cannabis workers, mostly from dust exposure in indoor cultivation, including two fatalities.
Cannabis Use and Heart Attack Risk: What the Evidence Actually Shows
Review finds cannabis has been linked to heart attacks since the 1970s, but current studies are too coarse to identify which users and use patterns carry the most risk.
Specific Cannabis Ad Features Make Youth More Interested in Using
Experiment with 409 California youth found that cannabis ads with illustrations, food references, and positive sensation imagery significantly increased interest in cannabis use.
Thailand Saw More Cannabis Poisonings and Child Exposures After Legalization
Thai poison center data showed cannabis hospitalizations rose from 69% to 97% across legalization stages, with more children exposed after recreational legalization.
Mixing Alcohol and Synthetic Cannabinoids Hit Mouse Hearts Harder Than Either Drug Alone
Mouse study showed combining alcohol with synthetic cannabinoids produced worse cardiac dysfunction than either alone, reversible by blocking CB1 receptors.
CBD Use Is Far More Common Among Marijuana Users Than Non-Users
National survey found 40.7% of current marijuana users also use CBD, compared to 5.1% of never-marijuana-users, suggesting substantial overlap between these populations.
Cannabis Users Had Triple the Hematoma Risk After Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Study of 719 breast reconstruction patients found cannabis users had three times the hematoma risk and nearly three times the readmission rate.
Adolescent Cannabinoid Exposure Primed Mouse Lungs for Worse Infections Later
Mouse study found adolescent cannabinoid exposure primed lungs for worse bacterial infections in adulthood, amplified when combined with alcohol.
Almost All CBD Retailers in This Study Displayed Ads with Unapproved Health Claims
Pilot study of 13 CBD retailers in North Carolina found 92% displayed unapproved health claims, most commonly for stress/anxiety, arthritis, and pain.
Cannabis Use Was Independently Linked to More ER Visits and Hospitalizations in Gastroparesis Patients
Study of 406 gastroparesis patients found cannabis use independently associated with more ER visits and hospitalizations.
Among Daily Cannabis Users, Risk-Seekers Had More Negative Consequences
Small study of 51 daily cannabis users found risk-seeking predicted more negative consequences, while acting on positive emotions predicted fewer.
Most Opioid Treatment Clinicians Lack Experience with Medicinal Cannabis But Want to Learn
Survey of 102 opioid treatment clinicians found most lack medicinal cannabis experience but two-thirds would consider it for patients.
Opioid Treatment Clinicians See Both Harms and Benefits of Cannabis Use in Their Patients
Clinician survey found over half of opioid treatment clients reportedly use cannabis, with recognized benefits for sleep and mental health alongside harms like dependence.
Cannabis Policy Needs to Balance Psychosis Risk with Medicinal Potential
British Journal of Psychiatry editorial argues cannabis policy should reduce psychosis harm while improving access to regulated medicinal products.
Does CBD Protect Your Memory When You Use THC?
THC impaired verbal memory as expected, but adding CBD in a 1:1 ratio didn't protect against the effect—challenging a popular harm reduction claim.
Cannabis Use Linked to Increased Risk of Heart Rhythm Problems, Especially in Young Men
Comprehensive review finds cannabis use linked to heart rhythm disturbances, especially atrial fibrillation in young males, with synthetic cannabinoids posing even higher risk.
Tribal Communities Face Unique Cannabis Policy Challenges with Higher Use Rates
Review highlights that Native American communities face unique cannabis policy challenges, with higher youth use rates and multi-jurisdictional regulatory complexity.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Is Becoming More Common in Emergency Departments
Review finds cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, causing severe vomiting in chronic cannabis users, is increasingly diagnosed in emergency departments and frequently misidentified.
Cannabis Involvement in PTSD Emergency Visits Rose 151% During Canada's Legalization Era
Ontario data showed cannabis involvement in PTSD emergency visits rose 151% during cannabis liberalization (2008-2022), outpacing alcohol's 58% increase.
More Restrictive Cannabis Policies Were Associated with Less Cannabis Use in Both Adults and Youth
Analysis of 17 state cannabis policy areas from 2002-2019 found more restrictive policies consistently associated with lower cannabis use in both adults and youth.
Even Multiple Blood Draws Cannot Reliably Determine When Someone Last Used Cannabis
Analysis of 35 impaired driving cases found THC levels sometimes rose at later blood draws, showing the difficulty of determining when cannabis was last used.
Youth Cannabis Use Is Shaped by Individual, Family, Peer, Community, and Policy Factors at Every Level
Systematic review found youth cannabis use shaped by multi-level factors: individual perceived risk, peer influence, neighborhood stress, and policy context.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in Teenagers Is Underrecognized and Growing
Review finds CHS is increasingly diagnosed in teenagers, with diagnostic delays and ineffective standard treatments highlighting the need for greater pediatric awareness.
Cannabis Co-Users Were Less Likely to Switch Away from Cigarettes
Study found cannabis co-users smoked more cigarettes when asked to switch to alternatives and were less likely to attempt tobacco cessation.
Canada's Post-Legalization Adverse Reaction Reports Reveal Patterns in Cannabis Side Effects
Analysis of 698 adverse reaction reports since Canadian cannabis legalization found most came from older medical users of extracts, with different side effect profiles for THC- and CBD-dominant products.
Researchers Mapped Out Cannabis Harm Reduction Strategies Into a Practical Typology
Systematic review organized cannabis harm reduction strategies into a three-part typology covering legal, socio-organizational, and health-related interventions across multiple countries.
Synthetic Cannabinoids Cause Far More Severe Side Effects Than Natural Cannabis
Systematic review of 49 studies found synthetic cannabinoids cause far more severe neurological and cardiovascular complications than cannabis, with seizures, altered consciousness, and cardiac symptoms being most common.
Hospitals Often Failed to Screen Pregnant Cannabis Users for Substance Use or Refer Them for Support
Medical record audit found hospitals documented cannabis use in only 34% of ER visits and made substance support referrals in only 7% of admissions for pregnant women with known cannabis concerns.
Smoking Remains the Most Common Way Americans Use Cannabis, With Vaping Rising Among Young Adults
CDC surveillance across 22 states found smoking remains the dominant cannabis route (79%), followed by edibles (42%), vaping (30%), and dabbing (15%), with vaping concentrated among young adults.
Pediatricians' Guide to Cannabis in Adolescents: Screening, Syndromes, and Treatment
Clinical review reports youth cannabis use has actually decreased over decades despite legalization trends, while providing pediatricians with updated screening and treatment guidance.
Web-App Prevention Program Reduced Cannabis Use in Diverse College Students
RCT found a culturally sensitive web-app prevention program reduced cannabis use and improved substance knowledge among 1,066 diverse college students, with effects lasting at 90-day follow-up.
Cannabis Users Want Better Warning Labels That Actually Educate Rather Than Scare
Focus groups found cannabis users never notice current warning labels and want informative, attention-grabbing warnings that educate about specific risks rather than generic cautions.
Cannabis Edible Brand Names Use Different Marketing Strategies for THC vs CBD Products
Analysis of 1,344 cannabis edibles found CBD brands use health/wellness themes (45%) while THC brands emphasize cannabis culture and food, potentially shaping consumer risk perceptions.
Man Experienced Nine Days of Cognitive Impairment After Eating HHC-C9 Cannabis Cookies
A man experienced nine days of cognitive impairment after eating cookies containing HHC-C9, a semisynthetic cannabinoid sold legally as a "cannabis alternative."
Youth Cannabis-Related ER Visits Nearly Doubled From 2018 to 2023
Cannabis-related ER visits among youth aged 12-21 nearly doubled from 2018 to 2023, with increases in younger teens and females, and a 19% one-year revisit rate.
Brain Science App Reduced Cannabis Use and Improved Decision-Making in College Students
Pilot study found a neuroscience-based mobile app reduced cannabis use and improved executive function, metacognition, and decision-making in 68 college students after just four sessions.
Pediatric Cannabis Edible Ingestions Are Rising and Need Better Clinical Guidelines
Clinical review finds rising pediatric cannabis edible ingestions driven by inconsistent regulation and candy-like products, providing clinical management and prevention recommendations.
The Road From Early Warning Signs to Full Psychosis—and Where Cannabis Fits
A review of 60 studies mapped psychosis development: early symptoms are mostly depression and anxiety, with cannabis conferring 4-fold risk (10-fold with genetic vulnerability).
Inside India's Unregulated Cannabis Market: A 13-Year User's Call for Safety Testing
Drawing on 13 years in India's prohibited cannabis market, a researcher argues the real risks come from unregulated product contamination and unpredictable potency, not cannabinoids themselves.
What's Actually on Delta-8 THC Product Labels? A Packaging Analysis
Analysis of 140 delta-8 THC products found most lack health warnings and many don't clearly state cannabinoid content, highlighting gaps in an unregulated market.
Cannabis Use Linked to Lower Inflammation Markers in People Who Use Methamphetamine or Have HIV
Cross-sectional study found past-month cannabis use associated with lower inflammatory markers in blood, especially among people with methamphetamine use history.
What Do Patients Actually Think About Medical Cannabis? A Review of 40 Qualitative Studies
Scoping review of 40 qualitative studies found patients generally report positive medical cannabis experiences but face stigma, costs, and a disconnect with cautious medical providers.
Two-Thirds of Danish Medical Cannabis Patients Report Moderate to Large Benefits
Danish nationwide survey found 67% of medical cannabis patients report moderate to large benefits, but side effects are common and unrelated to perceived treatment effect.
A 16-Year-Old's Recurrent Vomiting Turned Out to Be Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome
Case report of a 16-year-old with two years of unexplained recurrent vomiting finally diagnosed as cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, emphasizing the need for CHS awareness in pediatric care.
Only 1 in 10 Cannabis Users Seek Help for Problems, and Most Go to a Doctor First
Survey found only 9.2% of cannabis consumers sought help for problems, with doctors most common in legal jurisdictions and family/friends preferred where cannabis is illegal.
Pre-Transplant Cannabis Use Linked to Higher Immediate Opioid Needs But No Worse Liver Transplant Outcomes
Study of 4,236 liver transplant patients found cannabis users needed slightly more opioids initially but had no differences in length of stay, readmission, or mortality.
Daily Inhaled Cannabis Linked to Higher Odds of Asthma and COPD in Nearly 380,000 Adults
Analysis of 379,049 adults found daily inhaled cannabis associated with 44% higher asthma odds and 27% higher COPD odds, persisting after tobacco adjustment.
Food Restriction on Drinking Days Worsened Outcomes for College Students Using Alcohol and Marijuana
Survey of 901 college students found food restriction on substance use days independently predicted worse consequences for both alcohol and marijuana users, including those using both simultaneously.
Cannabis Users Showed Distinct Patterns in How They Assess Impairment and Plan Safe Transportation
Study identified distinct subgroups of cannabis users based on how they assess impairment risk, monitor their use, and plan safe transportation, revealing heterogeneity that one-size-fits-all policies miss.
Cannabis Use May Buffer Suicidal Ideation in Bullied LGBTQ+ Youth — But Opioids and Hallucinogens Increase Suicide Attempts
Study of 96,482 youth found cannabis use moderated the bullying-suicidality link in LGBTQ+ teens, while opioid and hallucinogen use dramatically increased suicide attempt risk.
Negative Consequences from Mixing Alcohol and Cannabis Paradoxically Predict More Cannabis Use
60-day study found negative consequences from mixing alcohol and cannabis paradoxically increased cannabis use at the next drinking event while reducing alcohol quantity.
A Cannabis Check-Up Program for Young Adults With Psychosis Showed High Acceptance and Completion
A nonjudgmental two-session cannabis intervention for young adults with psychosis achieved 92% completion and universal recommendation, supporting its feasibility for a larger efficacy trial.
A Cannabis Cessation App Revealed Distinct User Profiles With Different Motivations and Readiness to Quit
Analysis of a cannabis cessation app revealed distinct user profiles: coping-motivated users showed the most problematic use, suggesting digital interventions should personalize content based on why people use cannabis.
People With HIV Who Increased Cannabis Use Did Not Decrease Their Alcohol or Tobacco Use
In an HIV cohort tracked 2009–2023, increasing cannabis use did not lead to decreasing alcohol or tobacco use, failing to support the popular substitution hypothesis for this population.
Testing a Health Communication Tool to Reduce Cannabis Misuse in College Students
Proof-of-concept study testing a technology-delivered health communication intervention to reduce cannabis misuse among 64 college students.
What Cannabis Budtenders Tell Pregnant Customers About Safety
Mystery shopper study finding only 40% of California budtenders advise against prenatal cannabis use, while 80% warn against tobacco — highlighting a critical public health gap.
How You Use Cannabis Changes How It Feels: Bongs, Vapes, and Edibles Compared
Real-time tracking of 215 young adults reveals distinct subjective effect profiles for different cannabis methods — bongs feel best, vapes feel less intoxicating, edibles reduce desire to re-use.
CBD Reduced Opioid Self-Administration in Rats Without Reducing Pain Relief
CBD reduced opioid self-administration in rats with nerve pain without reducing oxycodone's analgesic effects—a potential path to safer opioid prescribing.
Smoking vs. Vaping Cannabis: Different Risks, Not No Risks
Vaping cannabis reduces some combustion harms but produces similar cardiovascular effects to smoking and introduces its own lung risks—not a safe alternative.
How States Are Trying to Fix Cannabis Industry Inequality
Multi-state analysis of social equity programs in legal cannabis found wide variation in design and outcomes, with persistent gaps between policy goals and actual representation.
The Rise of Semi-Synthetic Cannabinoids in Europe
Over 30 semi-synthetic cannabinoids derived from hemp CBD are circulating in Europe with unknown safety profiles, posing challenges for regulation and detection.
Cannabis Consumers Prefer Simple THC Dose Labels Over Percentages
Survey of 575 cannabis users found overwhelming preference for standardized THC dose labels (like '5mg per serving') over percentages — supporting a 'standard drink' approach for cannabis.
Cannabis Substitution Reduces Alcohol Use in Managed Alcohol Program
A Canadian harm reduction program found that offering cannabis alongside alcohol reduced drinking: each additional joint was associated with about 2.4 fewer standard drinks per day among people with severe alcohol use disorder.
HHC Gummy Sold as THC: A Dissociative ER Case With Serum Proof
One ED case: a “THC” gummy was analytically confirmed as HHC, with dissociative-like symptoms.
Co-Using Alcohol and Cannabis Leads to More Drinks and Worse Outcomes
A daily diary study of 115 young adults found that co-use days involved more drinking, and it was this higher alcohol consumption — not cannabis itself — that drove worse outcomes.
Recreational Cannabis Laws Linked to 9-11% Drop in Daily Opioid Use Among People Who Inject Drugs
Analysis of 28,069 people who inject drugs across 13 states found that recreational cannabis legalization was linked to 9-11% less daily opioid misuse, with racial disparities in cannabis use changes.
Did Opening Cannabis Stores in California Increase Emergency Room Visits?
California city-level analysis found cannabis store authorization increased ER visits, hospitalizations, and poison center calls — with spillover effects into neighboring cities.
JAMA's Comprehensive Review of What Cannabis Can and Can't Treat
JAMA review found strong evidence for cannabinoids treating nausea, appetite loss, and seizures, but guidelines recommend against inhaled or high-potency cannabis for most conditions.
Stricter State Cannabis Laws Linked to Less Cannabis Use Among College Students
Study of 900,000+ college students found stricter state cannabis policies associated with less cannabis use and less co-use with alcohol, with the two policy domains operating independently.
Cannabis Beverages May Help People Drink Less Alcohol
Survey of 438 cannabis users finds those who use cannabis beverages reported cutting weekly alcohol consumption roughly in half and significantly reducing binge drinking frequency.
Cannabis Use Didn't Prevent Methadone Patients from Keeping Take-Home Privileges
Small study of 33 methadone patients finds that continued THC use did not prevent maintaining take-home medication privileges for 10 months under relaxed COVID-era regulations.
How Much THC Per Week Raises Your Risk of Cannabis Use Disorder?
Longitudinal study estimates cannabis use disorder risk thresholds: about 8 standard THC units per week for adults and 6 for adolescents, providing the first evidence-based foundation for safer-use guidelines.
The Most Detailed Look Yet at What Cannabis Smoking Does to the Lungs
Multi-modal Canadian study found heavy cannabis smokers had worse lung function, airway structural changes, and overproduction of mucus-related genes in airway cells.
Designing a Text-Based Intervention to Help Young Adults Use Cannabis and Alcohol More Safely
Researchers used focus groups and interviews with young adults to develop an 8-week text-messaging intervention promoting daily protective behavioral strategies for safer alcohol and cannabis use.
Nearly Half of Patients on Opioid Treatment Use Cannabis — Mostly to Manage Symptoms
Study finds 47.5% of patients on opioid treatment medication use cannabis, mostly to self-manage stress, anxiety, pain, and insomnia, without apparent worsening of treatment outcomes.
Not All Days of Using Alcohol and Cannabis Together Are Equal
Daily survey study identifies four types of simultaneous alcohol-cannabis use days among college students, with 'Heavy Use' days (14% of occasions) carrying the most same-day harm.
Among people with HIV, those who used cannabis for medical or emotional reasons also used more other substances
Among people with HIV, cannabis users motivated by medical or emotional reasons had higher polysubstance use than recreational users.
Bisexual women had the highest rates of polysubstance use combinations involving cannabis and binge drinking
National survey finds bisexual women had the highest rates of polysubstance combinations involving cannabis and binge drinking.
Cannabis with THC impairs driving for about 4-5 hours after inhalation, and adding alcohol makes it worse
Review confirms THC impairs driving for 4-5 hours, CBD does not impair driving, and alcohol plus cannabis amplifies the effect.
Smoking cannabis reduced alcohol consumption by up to 27% in a controlled trial of heavy drinkers
A controlled crossover trial found cannabis reduced alcohol consumption by 19-27% in heavy drinkers who also use cannabis.
College students across seven countries fell into three substance use classes, with polysubstance users showing higher impulsivity and childhood adversity
Study of 9,065 college students in seven countries finds polysubstance users had more childhood adversity, impulsivity, and ruminative thinking.
People were willing to buy and use more cannabis when they had more time before they needed to drive
Behavioral economics study finds cannabis demand decreases as driving becomes more imminent, and risk perception influences consumption levels.
Recreational drug use, including cannabis, nearly tripled the risk of major cardiovascular events within one year of cardiac hospitalization
Prospective French study finds recreational drug use, including cannabis, nearly tripled the risk of major cardiac events at one year post-hospitalization.
Despite increasing cannabis potency in Europe, the severity of emergency department visits for cannabis toxicity stayed the same over 10 years
Ten-year European data from 40 EDs shows cannabis toxicity severity stayed stable despite increasing potency.
Cannabis use disorder was linked to more postoperative pain and skin complications after tummy tuck surgery
Matched analysis of 1,596 patients finds cannabis use disorder linked to 82% more postoperative pain and 48% more wound issues after panniculectomy.
Cannabis smoke caused more damage to placental cells than THC alone, suggesting combustion byproducts add their own risks
Cannabis smoke extract caused placental cell damage beyond what THC alone produced, and blocking cannabinoid receptors did not prevent it.
A potent synthetic cannabinoid caused loss of consciousness in 81% of emergency cases, with seizures in 30% and four deaths
202 emergency presentations for synthetic cannabinoid MDMB-4en-PINACA: 81% unconscious, 30% seizures, 4 deaths, mostly homeless men.
Large meta-analysis finds regular cannabis use raises both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers, not just one or the other
Meta-analysis of 46 studies finds cannabis use elevates both pro- and anti-inflammatory markers, suggesting immunomodulation rather than anti-inflammatory effects.
Combining methamphetamine and cannabis was linked to more severe asthma attacks requiring intubation
Co-use of methamphetamine and cannabis linked to higher intubation rates and more severe asthma attacks among hospitalized patients.
Stronger alcohol and cannabis policies each independently reduced substance-involved motor vehicle deaths
Decade of US crash data shows stronger alcohol and cannabis policies each independently reduce substance-involved motor vehicle deaths.
Both cannabis and tobacco use were associated with higher suicide attempt rates among veterans prescribed opioids
In 923,000+ veterans on opioids, cannabis linked to 11% more suicide attempts; tobacco to more attempts, deaths, and overdose deaths.
Cannabis-Related ER Visits and Outpatient Encounters Rose 71% in Five Years
FDA database study of 115 million insured adults found cannabis-related healthcare encounters rose 71% from 2017 to 2022, with no difference by state legalization status.
Veterans in Addiction Treatment Describe Using Cannabis to Manage Pain
Qualitative study found veterans in addiction treatment used cannabis to manage chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep — framing it as a harm reduction alternative to more dangerous substances.
People of Color Are Severely Underrepresented in Cannabis Use Disorder Treatment Research
Systematic review finds White participants are represented at 49 times their share of cannabis use disorder cases in treatment trials, with zero studies culturally adapted for people of color.
College students reported more hits and more negative consequences when using joints or blunts compared to bongs
Ecological momentary assessment of 88 college students found joints and blunts were associated with more hits per session and greater negative consequences compared to bong use.
Medical cannabis program participation was linked to reduced opioid prescriptions over 18 months in a New York study
JAMA Internal Medicine cohort study of 204 chronic pain patients found New York medical cannabis program participation associated with 3.53 fewer daily morphine milliequivalents per month of full dispensation over 18 months.
A Faster Way to Detect Dangerous Synthetic Cannabinoids in Vape Liquids
Cell-based screening detected synthetic cannabinoid activity in 6 of 23 vape liquids faster and cheaper than chemical analysis, and flagged unexpected CB1-interfering substances in five others.
Cannabis users had significantly higher rates of infection, nonunion, and reoperation after ankle fracture surgery
Propensity-matched study of 6,252 patients found preoperative cannabis use associated with 70% higher infection risk, plus significantly increased nonunion and reoperation rates after ankle fracture surgery.
Cannabis use jumped 52% after weight-loss surgery, and people drinking hazardously were most likely to start
Survey of 612 bariatric surgery patients found cannabis use jumped 52% post-operatively, with hazardous drinkers most likely to pick it up.
Veterans say cannabis is an important health tool but are reluctant to discuss it with VA clinicians
Interviews with 23 veterans revealed they value cannabis for health but get information from peers and dispensaries rather than clinicians, who they see as judgmental or uninformed.
Current marijuana users showed signs of accelerated biological aging, partly explained by cadmium exposure from smoking
NHANES analysis of nearly 13,000 adults found current marijuana users showed accelerated biological aging, with cadmium from smoke explaining about 8-16% of the effect.
After Germany raised its legal THC driving limit, half of impaired drivers fell below the new threshold while half of unimpaired drivers exceeded it
Analysis of 48,058 German traffic cases found the new 3.5 ng/mL THC limit poorly separates impaired from unimpaired drivers, with identical median THC in both groups.
Nearly 74% of cannabis stores sold to customers acting drunk, despite a law prohibiting it
Pseudo-patron study found 74% of cannabis stores sold to apparently drunk customers, with posted signage being the only factor that increased refusal rates.
Nearly half of current cigarette smokers in high-tobacco states also use cannabis, averaging 19 days per month
Survey of 9,100 adults found 45% of cigarette smokers in high-tobacco states also use cannabis, with co-use most common among young, male, and disabled individuals.
Mixing cannabis and alcohol simultaneously doubles drunk driving risk and triples social consequences
Mixing cannabis and alcohol simultaneously doubles drunk driving risk and triples social problems. Keeping them separate is dramatically safer.
Cannabis Users May Need More Anesthesia and Face Higher Surgical Complication Risk
Cannabis users may need dramatically more sedation and face higher airway/cardiovascular risk during surgery, but most never tell their surgical team.