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Young-Wolff KC, Does MB, Mian MN, Sterling SA, Satre DD, Campbell CI, Silver LD, Alexeeff SE, Cunningham SF, Asyyed A, Altschuler A. Clinician perspectives on adolescent cannabis-related beliefs and behaviors following recreational cannabis legalization. Addict Behav 2024; 156:108046. [PMID: 38744214 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.108046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As more states legalize cannabis, studies are needed to understand the potential impacts of recreational cannabis legalization (RCL) on adolescents from the perspective of clinicians who care for them. METHODS This qualitative study characterized clinician perspectives on whether cannabis legalization is associated with changes in adolescents' cannabis use beliefs, behaviors, and consequences. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 32 clinicians in a large healthcare organization from 9/6/2022-12/21/2022. Video-recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The 32 participants (56.3 % female, mean [SD] age, 45.9 [7.6] years; 65.3 % non-Hispanic White) were from Addiction Medicine (n = 13), Psychiatry/Mental Health (n = 7), Pediatrics (n = 5), and the Emergency Department (n = 7). Clinicians described post-RCL increases in adolescent cannabis use, use of non-combustible modes and high-potency products, and younger age of first use. Clinicians reported social, physical, and policy changes, including changes in social norms, appealing advertisements, marketing, and easier access. Many noted fewer perceived harms among adolescents and greater self-medication post-RCL. They described how RCL contributed to increased parental cannabis use and permissiveness around adolescent use. Finally, many described post-RCL increases in cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, and several noted increased cannabis-related psychosis and acute intoxication, and decreased court-mandated treatment. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians from diverse specialties described post-RCL increases in adolescent cannabis use and cannabis-related consequences, alongside changes in social norms, access, marketing and advertisements, and decreased perceptions of harms. Findings can inform strategies to support adolescents in the context of increased cannabis availability and acceptability post-legalization and support the development of hypotheses for broader-scale quantitative work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C Young-Wolff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| | - Monique B Does
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Maha N Mian
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Stacy A Sterling
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Derek D Satre
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Cynthia I Campbell
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Stacey E Alexeeff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Sarah F Cunningham
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Asma Asyyed
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Andrea Altschuler
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
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O'Donnell S, Scott-Storey K, Malcolm J, Vincent CD, Wuest J. Cumulative lifetime violence, social determinants of health, and cannabis use disorder post-cannabis legalization in a community sample of men: An intersectional perspective. Res Nurs Health 2024; 47:460-474. [PMID: 38722053 DOI: 10.1002/nur.22389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Despite Canada having the highest disease burden globally for cannabis use disorder (CUD) and violence being ubiquitous in men's lives, little is known about how intersections among social determinants of health (SDOH) and cumulative lifetime violence severity (CLVS) influence CUD in men post-cannabis legalization. Using data collected in a survey with a national community sample of 597 men who self-identified as having experienced violence, we conducted a latent profile analysis using 11 subscales of the CLVS-44 scale and explored differential associations between CLVS profiles and CUD considering SDOH covariates. Four profiles were distinguished by intersections among CLVS-44 subscale severity and roles as target and perpetrator. CLVS profiles were significantly associated with CUD in the unadjusted model and in the adjusted model where age, adverse housing, and education were significant covariate controls. In the adjusted model, CUD was differentially associated with CLVS profiles and significantly higher in Profile 4 (highest severity target and perpetrator) than in Profile 1 (lowest severity target, no perpetration). Chi-square tests showed significant intersection between adverse housing, younger age, Profile 4 CLVS, and moderate to severe CUD among cannabis users. These results reveal the importance of understanding simultaneous intersections among indicators of CLVS in determining profiles of lifetime violence. Also critical are intersections among CLVS profiles and significant covariates as a basis for trauma- and violence-informed care for CUD that prioritizes men most disadvantaged by this convergence and attends to individual and structural health disparities at practice and policy levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue O'Donnell
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Kelly Scott-Storey
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Jeannie Malcolm
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Charlene D Vincent
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Judith Wuest
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
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Balneaves LG, Hammond D, Turner S, Nickel N, Woodgate RL, Watling CZ. Youth and Young Adults' Knowledge and Perceptions of Risks and Benefits Regarding Cannabis Products: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Over 1,700 Individuals. J Psychoactive Drugs 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38946663 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2024.2371028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Canada legalized the use of non-medical cannabis in 2018. This study examines youth and young adults' knowledge and perceptions of harms, benefits, and education around cannabis use since legalization. An online survey was completed by a convenience sample of 1,759 individuals aged 12-25 years living in Manitoba, Canada. Most participants (n = 1,525, 86.7%) reported receiving education on the potential effects/harms related to cannabis; the most common topics included driving and cannabis use (79.9%), the mental harms of cannabis (67.4%), and addiction and dependency (66.3%). Youth who reported using cannabis more than once (n = 1,203) were more knowledgeable about the effects of cannabis than youth who never used cannabis or used cannabis once (n = 580; mean score: 6.6 versus 5.7 out of 8, respectively; p < .001). Vaping cannabis oil was perceived as the most harmful cannabis product among all participants. Among participants with experience using cannabis, the most frequently reported benefits were relaxation, improved sleep, and enhanced enjoyment of food/music. Half of the participants reported ever being in a car with someone driving high, of which, 40% of these participants reported doing so in the last 30 days. Future tailored education is needed to address knowledge related to cannabis use among youth and young adults who use and do not use cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda G Balneaves
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Shelley Turner
- Ekosi Health Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Rady Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Nathan Nickel
- Community Health Sciences, Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Roberta L Woodgate
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Cody Z Watling
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Pierce SK, Reynolds KA, Sommer JL, El-Gabalawy R, Pietrzak RH, Sumner JA, Mota N. Maladaptive health factors as potential mediators for the association between posttraumatic stress disorder and cardiovascular disease: A sex-stratified analysis in the U.S. adult population. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 177:102-108. [PMID: 39002531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined sex differences for health risk factors as potential mediators in the association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). METHODS Secondary data from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave 3 was used. This cross-sectional survey contains a nationally representative sample of 36,309 U.S. adults (nfemales = 20,447, Mage = 47.16, 95% CI = [46.74, 47,57]; nmales = 15,682, Mage = 45.88, 95% CI = [45.42, 46.34]). Natural effect models and logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate health risk factors (smoking, substance use, low physical activity, high body mass index [BMI], binge eating, and multiple health risk factors) as potential mediators for the PTSD-CVD relationship in females and males. RESULTS High BMI (indirect AOR = 1.05, 95% CI = [1.02, 1.07]) and substance use (indirect AOR = 0.93, 95% CI = [0.88, 0.98], p = 0.005) were potential mediators in females and males respectively. Binge eating, smoking, and low physical activity were not mediators in either sex. The number of health risk factors was also a potential mediator in females (indirect AOR = 1.12, 95% CI = [1.07, 1.19], p = <0.001) though not males (indirect AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = [1.00, 1.19], p = .059). CONCLUSIONS The results inform prevention strategies, such as screening for health risk factors to mitigate the adverse effect of PTSD on CVD risk. Findings also inform important directions for future longitudinal research to establish causal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Pierce
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada
| | - K A Reynolds
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada
| | - J L Sommer
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada
| | - R El-Gabalawy
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada; Department of Clinical Health Psychology, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada
| | - R H Pietrzak
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - J A Sumner
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - N Mota
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada; Department of Clinical Health Psychology, University of Manitoba, MB, Canada.
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Bahji A, Crockford D, Brasch J, Schutz C, Buckley L, Danilewitz M, Dubreucq S, Mak M, George TP. Training in Substance use Disorders, Part 1: Overview of Clinical Practice Recommendations. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2024; 69:428-456. [PMID: 38613369 PMCID: PMC11107443 DOI: 10.1177/07067437241231128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Anees Bahji
- Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - David Crockford
- Clinical Professor, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Calgary, AB, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute & Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Brasch
- Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, Michael G DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Lead, Addiction Psychiatry, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Past-President, Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Christian Schutz
- Professor, Institute of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Research Lead Adult Mental Health and Substance Use, Provincial Health Service Authority, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Leslie Buckley
- Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marlon Danilewitz
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Associate Medical Director, General Psychiatry, Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, Whitby, ON, Canada
| | - Simon Dubreucq
- Psychiatrist, Department of Addiction Medicine, CHUM, Montreal, QC, Canada; Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Michael Mak
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Adjunct Research Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Tony P George
- Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Downey MK, Bishop LD, Donnan JR, Rowe EC, Harris N. A survey of educator perspectives toward teaching harm reduction cannabis education. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299085. [PMID: 38718060 PMCID: PMC11078393 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Substance use is common among youth which can adversely affect youth health. Despite the legalization of cannabis in Canada and much of the United States, there is a lack of harm reduction cannabis education in schools. In addition, educators may not feel prepared to teach students about cannabis. METHODS A cross-sectional survey explored educator perceptions toward teaching harm reduction substance use education to students in grades 4-12. Data analysis included descriptive statistics to evaluate demographic variables, ANOVAs to identify subgroup differences, and inductive thematic analysis to establish themes from open-ended responses. From the sample of 170 educators, the majority were female (77%) and worked as classroom teachers (59%). RESULTS Ninety-two percent of educators felt harm reduction was an effective approach to substance use education, and 84% stated that they would feel comfortable teaching cannabis harm reduction education to students. While 68% of educators believed they would be able to recognize if a student was under the influence of cannabis, only 39% felt certain about how to respond to student cannabis use, and just 8% felt that their current teacher training allowed them to intervene and prevent cannabis-related harms. Most educators (89%) expressed interest in harm reduction training, particularly interactive training (70%) and instructor-led lessons (51%). Online curriculum resources were preferred by 57%. Responses differed by gender and age group, with females of any age and educators under 40 reporting greater support of harm reduction approaches and more interest in training. CONCLUSION Educators expressed considerable support for harm reduction substance use education, but many felt unprepared to address this topic with students. The findings identified a need for educator training on harm reduction substance use education, so that educators can help students make informed choices around substance use, thereby promoting youth health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly K. Downey
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Lisa D. Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Jennifer R. Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Emily C. Rowe
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Nick Harris
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
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Ortiz-Paredes D, Chanady T, Wassef K, Knight R, Ferlatte O. 'I created my own access:' understanding mental healthcare access experiences among LGTBQ + youth who use cannabis in Canada. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38639032 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2340090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
In North America, LGBTQ+ youth have high rates of cannabis use and face mental health issues. We conducted a photovoice study to describe the perspectives, needs, and motivations of forty-six LGBTQ+ youth who use cannabis as they access mental healthcare services. Participants' photographs were discussed in individual semi-structured interviews conducted by peer researchers. Following a thematic analysis of the interview transcripts, we first found that, beyond medication, LGBTQ+ youth sought mental health services facilitating introspection to better understand their sexual and gender identities and mental health. Second, participants sought affirming health professionals but often felt judged by providers. Third, access to desired services was often described as uncertain and taxing, which impacted their mental health. Fourth, participants' agency was determined by their experience with mental health services, which translated into resilience to tackle access challenges and cannabis use to mitigate their mental health struggles. Our findings point to the need for mental healthcare delivery that goes beyond medication provision but which in addition foster therapeutic processes based on a holistic understanding of mental health. A trusting dynamic between health professionals and LGBTQ+ youth is imperative to counteract the feelings of stigma experienced by LGBTQ+ youth using cannabis in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ortiz-Paredes
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Tara Chanady
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kinda Wassef
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Rod Knight
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Olivier Ferlatte
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Fekih-Romdhane F, Alhuwailah A, Shuwiekh HAM, Stambouli M, Hakiri A, Cheour M, Loch AA, Hallit S. Development and initial validation of the cannabis-related psychosis risk literacy scale (CPRL): a multinational psychometric study. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:298. [PMID: 38641784 PMCID: PMC11027227 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05727-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public education efforts to address and reduce potential harms from cannabis use in Arab countries are either slow or inexistent, and do not follow the steadily increasing trends of cannabis use in Arab youth. Several decades of research on substance use, it can be suggested that being aware of, and knowing about, psychosis risk related to cannabis can at least limit the consumption of the substance. Motivated by a lack of measures specifically designed to measure literacy about cannabis-related psychosis risk in younger populations, and based on an extensive literature review, we aimed to create and validate a new self-report scale to assess the construct, the Cannabis-related Psychosis Risk Literacy Scale (CPRL), in the Arabic language. METHOD A cross-sectional study was carried-out during the period from September 2022 to June 2023, enrolling 1855 university students (mean age of 23.26 ± 4.96, 75.6% females) from three Arab countries (Egypt, Kuwait and Tunisia). RESULTS Starting from an initial pool of 20 items, both Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis suggested that the remaining 8 items loaded into a single factor. The scale demonstrated good internal consistency, with both McDonald omega and Cronbach's alpha values exceeding 0.7 (omega = 0.85 / alpha = 0.85). The CPRL showed measurement invariance across gender and country at the configural, metric, and scalar levels. Concurrent validity of the CPRL was established by correlations with less favourable attitudes towards cannabis (r = -.14; p <.001). In addition, higher literacy levels were found in students who never used cannabis compared to lifetime users (4.18 ± 1.55 vs. 3.44 ± 1.20, t(1853) = 8.152, p <.001). CONCLUSION The newly developed CPRL scale offers a valid and reliable instrument for assessing and better understanding literacy about cannabis-related psychosis risk among Arabic-speaking young adults. We believe that this new scale is suitable as a screening tool of literacy, as an instrument for measuring the effect of public education interventions aimed at promoting cannabis-related psychosis risk literacy among young people, and as a research tool to facilitate future studies on the topic with a wider application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feten Fekih-Romdhane
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis Al Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.
- The Tunisian Center of Early Intervention in Psychosis, Department of Psychiatry Ibn Omrane, Razi Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | | | | | - Manel Stambouli
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis Al Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Abir Hakiri
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis Al Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Majda Cheour
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis Al Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
- The Tunisian Center of Early Intervention in Psychosis, Department of Psychiatry Ibn Omrane, Razi Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Alexandre Andrade Loch
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias (LIM 27), Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Biomarcadores em Neuropsiquiatria (INBION), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnológico, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Souheil Hallit
- Psychology Department, College of Humanities, Effat University, 21478, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Souheil Hallit, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, P.O. Box 446, Lebanon.
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Côté J, Chicoine G, Vinette B, Auger P, Rouleau G, Fontaine G, Jutras-Aswad D. Digital Interventions for Recreational Cannabis Use Among Young Adults: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Behavior Change Technique Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e55031. [PMID: 38630515 PMCID: PMC11063887 DOI: 10.2196/55031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high prevalence of cannabis use among young adults poses substantial global health concerns due to the associated acute and long-term health and psychosocial risks. Digital modalities, including websites, digital platforms, and mobile apps, have emerged as promising tools to enhance the accessibility and availability of evidence-based interventions for young adults for cannabis use. However, existing reviews do not consider young adults specifically, combine cannabis-related outcomes with those of many other substances in their meta-analytical results, and do not solely target interventions for cannabis use. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and active ingredients of digital interventions designed specifically for cannabis use among young adults living in the community. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of 7 databases for empirical studies published between database inception and February 13, 2023, assessing the following outcomes: cannabis use (frequency, quantity, or both) and cannabis-related negative consequences. The reference lists of included studies were consulted, and forward citation searching was also conducted. We included randomized studies assessing web- or mobile-based interventions that included a comparator or control group. Studies were excluded if they targeted other substance use (eg, alcohol), did not report cannabis use separately as an outcome, did not include young adults (aged 16-35 y), had unpublished data, were delivered via teleconference through mobile phones and computers or in a hospital-based setting, or involved people with mental health disorders or substance use disorders or dependence. Data were independently extracted by 2 reviewers using a pilot-tested extraction form. Authors were contacted to clarify study details and obtain additional data. The characteristics of the included studies, study participants, digital interventions, and their comparators were summarized. Meta-analysis results were combined using a random-effects model and pooled as standardized mean differences. RESULTS Of 6606 unique records, 19 (0.29%) were included (n=6710 participants). Half (9/19, 47%) of these articles reported an intervention effect on cannabis use frequency. The digital interventions included in the review were mostly web-based. A total of 184 behavior change techniques were identified across the interventions (range 5-19), and feedback on behavior was the most frequently used (17/19, 89%). Digital interventions for young adults reduced cannabis use frequency at the 3-month follow-up compared to control conditions (including passive and active controls) by -6.79 days of use in the previous month (95% CI -9.59 to -4.00; P<.001). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate the potential of digital interventions to reduce cannabis use in young adults but raise important questions about what optimal exposure dose could be more effective, both in terms of intervention duration and frequency. Further high-quality research is still needed to investigate the effects of digital interventions on cannabis use among young adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020196959; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=196959.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Côté
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Chair in Innovative Nursing Practices, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Chicoine
- Research Chair in Innovative Nursing Practices, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Billy Vinette
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Chair in Innovative Nursing Practices, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patricia Auger
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Chair in Innovative Nursing Practices, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Geneviève Rouleau
- Research Chair in Innovative Nursing Practices, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Nursing, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Saint-Jérôme, QC, Canada
- Women's College Hospital Institute for Health System Solutions and Virtual Care, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guillaume Fontaine
- Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Haddad R, Dagenais C, Huynh C, Fallu JS. Facilitators of and barriers to healthcare providers' adoption of harm reduction in cannabis use: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078427. [PMID: 38580357 PMCID: PMC11002399 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The high prevalence of cannabis use and the potential for negative effects indicate the need for effective prevention strategies and treatment of people who use cannabis. Studies show that harm reduction (HR) in cannabis use is effective in minimising the harmful consequences of the substance. However, health professionals often misunderstand it and resist its adoption due to various obstacles. To our knowledge, there has been no review of the scientific literature on the factors that facilitate or hinder practitioners' adoption of HR in cannabis use. To fill this gap, we aim to identify, through a scoping review, facilitators and barriers to healthcare providers' adoption of HR in cannabis use in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Our methodology will be guided by the six-step model initially proposed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). The search strategy will be executed on different databases (Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, Sociological Abstracts, Érudit, BASE, Google Web and Google Scholar) and will cover articles published between 1990 and October 2022. Empirical studies published in French or English in an OECD country and identifying factors that facilitate or hinder healthcare providers' adoption of HR in cannabis use, will be included. Reference lists of the selected articles as well as relevant systematic reviews will be scanned to identify any missed publications by the electronic searches. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required. The results will be disseminated through various activities (eg, publication in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, webinars and knowledge translation activities). The results will also allow us to conduct a future study aiming to develop and implement a knowledge translation process among healthcare practitioners working with youth in Quebec in order to enhance their adoption of HR in cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Haddad
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christian Dagenais
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christophe Huynh
- University Institute on Addictions, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Fallu
- University Institute on Addictions, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- School of Psychoeducation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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11
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Budney AJ, Borodovsky JT, Struble CA, Habib MI, Shmulewitz D, Livne O, Aharonovich E, Walsh C, Cuttler C, Hasin DS. Estimating THC Consumption from Smoked and Vaped Cannabis Products in an Online Survey of Adults Who Use Cannabis. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:688-698. [PMID: 36521175 PMCID: PMC10998014 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Quantification of consumption patterns of the primary psychoactive compounds in cannabis, which cause euphoria or intoxication, is sorely needed to identify potential risks and benefits of use and to provide meaningful safety information to the public. The diversity of products available, multiple methods of administration, and lack of labeling of products have made such quantification challenging. Our group is developing a survey instrument for estimating the quantity of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) consumed in population samples, which is flexible and incorporates individualized reports of patterns of consumption. This study provides an illustration of a procedure for translating self-reported consumption into milligrams of THC (mgTHC), which may serve as a working model for future quantification efforts. Methods: Social media advertising was leveraged to enroll 5627 adults who use cannabis into an online, anonymous survey study. Only those who used cannabis in the past 7 days, used flower or concentrate products, and who chose to report their quantity of use in hits per day or grams per week (n=3211) were included in this report. Formulas were used to estimate mgTHC used per day, in hits per day or grams per week; potency (%THC); constants for estimating the amount of material consumed for each hit; and a method of administration efficiency constant to account for THC loss due to the administration method. Results: The estimate for mgTHC used per day was M=92.8 mg/day (SD=97.2 mg; 1st-3rd quartile range=25-132 mg). The estimated quantity of use was much lower for those reporting in hits (M=43.7 mg, SD=43.8) than for those reporting in grams (M=115.1 mg, SD=107.0). The estimated rate of binge use in the past week, arbitrarily defined as more than 50 mgTHC within any one daily time quadrant, was 6.8%, which increased to 29.3% if 25 mgTHC was used. Conclusions: The approach illustrated in this study goes beyond existing cannabis measures by asking participants to provide highly detailed estimates of their past 7-day use patterns and then applying a logical formula to translate this information into mgTHC. This initial procedure has limitations and lacks generalization; however, we hope this demonstration stimulates testing of similar approaches and relevant laboratory experiments that will enhance the validity of cannabis consumption estimation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J. Budney
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Jacob T. Borodovsky
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Cara A. Struble
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Mohammad I. Habib
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Ofir Livne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Claire Walsh
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Carrie Cuttler
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Deborah S. Hasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, USA
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12
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Mital S, Bishop L, Bugden S, Grootendorst P, Nguyen HV. Association between non-medical cannabis legalization and alcohol sales: Quasi-experimental evidence from Canada. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 257:111137. [PMID: 38460325 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing interest in understanding the impact of non-medical cannabis legalization on use of other substances, especially alcohol. Evidence on whether cannabis is a substitute or complement for alcohol is both mixed and limited. This study provides the first quasi-experimental evidence on the impact of Canada's legalization of non-medical cannabis on beer and spirits sales. METHODS We used the interrupted time series design and monthly data on beer sales between January 2012 and February 2020 and spirits sales between January 2016 and February 2020 across Canada to investigate changes in beer and spirits sales following Canada's cannabis legalization in October 2018. We examined changes in total sales, nationally and in individual provinces, as well as changes in sales of bottled, canned and kegged beer. RESULTS Canada-wide beer sales fell by 96 hectoliters per 100,000 population (p=0.011) immediately after non-medical cannabis legalization and by 4 hectoliters per 100,000 population (p>0.05) each month thereafter for an average monthly reduction of 136 hectoliters per 100,000 population (p<0.001) post-legalization. However, the legalization was associated with no change in spirits sales. Beer sales reduced in all provinces except the Atlantic provinces. By beer type, the legalization was associated with declines in sales of canned and kegged beer but there was no reduction in sales of bottled beer. CONCLUSIONS Non-medical cannabis legalization was associated with a decline in beer sales in Canada, suggesting substitution of non-medical cannabis for beer. However, there was no change in spirits sales following the legalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Mital
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Lisa Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Shawn Bugden
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Paul Grootendorst
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hai V Nguyen
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.
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13
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Hall W, Manthey J, Stjepanović D. Cannabis use and cannabis use disorders and their treatment in the Europe. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024:10.1007/s00406-024-01776-1. [PMID: 38489067 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-024-01776-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
This paper introduces the special issue on cannabis use in Europe. It describes data on the prevalence of cannabis use in Europe and the more limited data on the prevalence of cannabis use disorders, one of the most common forms of drug problem treated in many countries in Europe. It summarises what research has indicated about the adverse effects of acute and chronic cannabis use and discusses potential health system responses that may reduce some of these harms. These include public education about the risks of cannabis use; screening and brief interventions in primary medical settings; and specialist treatment for cannabis use disorders. It briefly indicates the special issues that may need to be addressed in dealing with the high rates of comorbidity between cannabis use disorders, other types of drug use disorders, and common mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Hall
- The National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
| | - Jakob Manthey
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Daniel Stjepanović
- The National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
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14
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Imtiaz S, Nigatu YT, Sanches M, Ali F, Boak A, Douglas L, Hamilton HA, Rehm J, Rueda S, Schwartz RM, Wells S, Elton-Marshall T. Effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption among adolescents in Ontario, Canada (2001-2019). Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:764-774. [PMID: 38015010 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis legalisation was enacted on 17 October 2018 in Canada. Accordingly, the effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption were examined among adolescents, including on cannabis initiation, any cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis dependence. METHODS Data from a biennial population-based, cross-sectional survey of students in Ontario were pooled in a pre-post design (2001-2019; N = 89,238). Participants provided self-reports of cannabis initiation, any cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis dependence. Long-term trends in these patterns of cannabis consumption over two decades of observation were characterised to provide a broader context of usage. The effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption were quantified using logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Long-term trends over the two decades of observation indicated that cannabis initiation decreased and then increased (p = 0.0220), any cannabis use decreased and daily cannabis use decreased (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively) and cannabis dependence remained unchanged (p = 0.1187). However, in comparisons between the pre-cannabis legalisation period (2001-2017) and the post-cannabis legalisation period (2019), cannabis legalisation was not associated with cannabis initiation (odds ratio; 95% confidence interval 1.00; 0.79-1.27), but it was associated with an increased likelihood of any cannabis use (1.31; 1.12-1.53), daily cannabis use (1.40; 1.09-1.80) and cannabis dependence (1.98; 1.29-3.04). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Cannabis legalisation was not associated with cannabis initiation, but it was associated with an increased likelihood of any cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Imtiaz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yeshambel T Nigatu
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marcos Sanches
- Biostatistical Support Unit, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Farihah Ali
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Angela Boak
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Laura Douglas
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hayley A Hamilton
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert M Schwartz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Samantha Wells
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Canada
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15
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Imtiaz S, Nigatu YT, Ali F, Agic B, Elton-Marshall T, Jiang H, Rehm J, Rueda S, Sanches M, Schwartz RM, Shield KD, Nibene Somé S, Sornpaisarn B, Wells S, Wickens CM, Hamilton HA. Cannabis legalization and driving under the influence of cannabis and driving under the influence of alcohol among adult and adolescent drivers in Ontario, Canada (2001-2019). Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 255:111060. [PMID: 38181618 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.111060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impacts of cannabis legalization on driving under the influence of cannabis and driving under the influence of alcohol among adults and adolescents were examined in Ontario, Canada. METHODS Data were sourced from adult (N=38,479) and adolescent (N=23,216) populations-based surveys (2001-2019). The associations between cannabis legalization and driving within an hour of using cannabis and driving within an hour of drinking two or more drinks of alcohol were quantified using logistic regression, with testing of multiplicative interactions between cannabis legalization and age and sex. All analyses were conducted separately for adults and adolescents and restricted to participants with a valid driver's license. RESULTS Cannabis legalization was not associated with driving within an hour of using cannabis among adults (OR, 95% CI: 1.21, 0.69-2.11). However, a multiplicative interaction indicated that there was an increased likelihood of driving within an hour of using cannabis among adults ≥55 years of age (4.23, 1.85-9.71) pre-post cannabis legalization. Cannabis legalization was not associated with driving within an hour of using cannabis among adolescents (0.92, 0.72-1.16), or with driving within an hour of consuming two or more drinks of alcohol among adults (0.78, 0.51-1.20) or adolescents (0.87, 0.42-1.82). CONCLUSIONS An increased likelihood of driving under the influence of cannabis among adults ≥55 years of age was detected in the year following cannabis legalization, suggesting the need for greater public awareness and education and police monitoring and enforcement concerning driving under the influence of cannabis, particularly among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Imtiaz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Yeshambel T Nigatu
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Farihah Ali
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Branka Agic
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Education Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1025 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario M6J 1H4, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 8th Floor, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario K1G 5Z3, Canada
| | - Huan Jiang
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Room 2374, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 8th Floor, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Chemnitzer Str. 46, Dresden 01187, Germany; Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Trubetskaya Str., 8, B. 2, Moscow 119992, Russian Federation
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Room 2374, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 8th Floor, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Marcos Sanches
- Biostatistics Core, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 60 White Squirrel Way, Toronto, Ontario M6J 1H5, Canada
| | - Robert M Schwartz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Kevin D Shield
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Some Nibene Somé
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Kresge Building, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Bundit Sornpaisarn
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Samantha Wells
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Kresge Building, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; School of Psychology, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia
| | - Christine M Wickens
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 425-155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1P8, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Hayley A Hamilton
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada
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16
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Sharma B, Ghosh A, Pillai RR, Basu D. Screening and Brief Intervention for Cannabis Misuse in Individuals on Buprenorphine Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial. J Psychoactive Drugs 2024; 56:66-75. [PMID: 36352558 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2022.2143458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis misuse and opioid use disorder (OUD) are highly comorbid but under-treated and associated with poorer outcomes. This paper reports a double-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial to determine the efficacy of single-session, clinician-delivered screening and brief intervention (SBI) for reducing cannabis risk. The primary outcome was the cannabis-specific Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) scores, measured at three-month post-intervention. The secondary objectives were to determine the efficacy of SBI in reducing the frequency of cannabis use, in risk transition from moderate to low risk, and in prescription and non-prescription opioid use. One hundred forty-three participants were randomly allocated to receive either SBI (n = 72) or control (n = 71) interventions. We performed Per-protocol (PP) (n = 125) and Intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis (n = 143). We adjusted our analysis for age, sex, and baseline ASSIST score. The ITT showed that the SBI group had a significant reduction (F = 39.46, p < .001, Effect size 0.22) in the mean ASSIST at follow-up. PP analyses too revealed a similar positive effect of SBI (F = 53.1; p < .001, Effect size 0.31). At follow-up, the SBI group had a higher number of days of cannabis abstinence. Care providers and policymakers may consider SBI for cannabis use in individuals on medications for OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babita Sharma
- Drug Deaddiction & Treatment Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Abhishek Ghosh
- Drug Deaddiction & Treatment Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Renjith R Pillai
- Drug Deaddiction & Treatment Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Debasish Basu
- Drug Deaddiction & Treatment Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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17
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Gray BA, Bolts OL, Fitzke RE, Douglass MA, Pedersen ER, Prince MA. Using Latent Profile Analysis to Examine Cannabis Use Contexts: Associations with Use, Consequences, and Protective Behaviors. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 59:208-217. [PMID: 37846065 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2267112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE College students represent a large portion of the population, and report high rates of cannabis use and related negative outcomes, including interpersonal problems, risky behaviors, or physical dependency. The contexts in which students use cannabis (e.g., at a party, when feeling down or depressed, after a fight with a loved one) likely affect their risk of experiencing consequences. We aimed to discern profiles of cannabis use contexts and compare profiles on use frequency, consequences, and the use of cannabis protective behavioral strategies (PBS). METHOD College students were surveyed regarding their cannabis use contexts, frequency, consequences, and PBS use (n = 265; female = 72.8%). We used Latent Profile Analysis to identify patterns of cannabis use contexts and auxiliary testing to compare profiles on use frequency, consequences, and PBS use. RESULTS Our examination revealed three latent profiles of cannabis use. The Social Use Profile was associated with use in predominantly social/uplifting contexts. The Physical & Emotional Pain Profile was also associated with use in these contexts but was defined by additional use in response to pain. The All Contexts Profile was associated with frequent use in all contexts, including those that were least endorsed by the other profiles. Profiles differed in cannabis use frequency, PBS use, and the number of consequences experienced, such that profiles were more likely to be associated with more frequent cannabis use, higher risk of experiencing use-consequences, and using fewer PBS as the number of use contexts increased across the profiles. CONCLUSIONS The contexts in which people use cannabis are associated with cannabis risk and protection. Prevention and intervention efforts may benefit from considering contexts of cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany A Gray
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Olivia L Bolts
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Reagan E Fitzke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Southern California; Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Morgan A Douglass
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Eric R Pedersen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Southern California; Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mark A Prince
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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18
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Tang VM, Ibrahim C, Rodak T, Goud R, Blumberger DM, Voineskos D, Le Foll B. Managing substance use in patients receiving therapeutic repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation: A scoping review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 155:105477. [PMID: 38007879 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is an invaluable treatment option for neuropsychiatric disorders. Co-occurring recreational and nonmedical substance use can be common in those presenting for rTMS treatment, and it is unknown how it may affect the safety and efficacy of rTMS for the treatment of currently approved neuropsychiatric indications. This scoping review aimed to map the literature on humans receiving rTMS and had a history of any type of substance use. The search identified 274 articles providing information on inclusion/exclusion criteria, withdrawal criteria, safety protocols, type of rTMS and treatment parameters, adverse events and effect on primary outcomes that related to substance use. There are neurophysiological effects of substance use on cortical excitability, although the relevance to clinical rTMS practice is unknown. The current literature supports the safety and feasibility of delivering rTMS to those who have co-occurring neuropsychiatric disorder and substance use. However, specific details on how varying degrees of substance use alters the safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of rTMS remains poorly described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M Tang
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Institute for Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Institute of Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada.
| | - Christine Ibrahim
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Institute for Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Terri Rodak
- CAMH Mental Health Sciences Library, Department of Education, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
| | - Rachel Goud
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
| | - Daniel M Blumberger
- Institute for Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
| | - Daphne Voineskos
- Institute for Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Institute for Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Institute of Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; CAMH Mental Health Sciences Library, Department of Education, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada; Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada; Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, Canada
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Timberlake DS, Bruckner TA, Pechmann C, Soroosh AJ, Simard BJ, Padon AA, Silver LD. Cannabis Vape Product Sales in California Following CDC's Initial Advisory About Lung Injuries. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 37939267 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The 2019 outbreak of e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI) is believed to have been caused by vitamin E acetate, an additive used in some cannabis vaporizer products. Previous studies have primarily focused on changes in sales of electronic nicotine delivery systems following the initial advisory issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on August 17, 2019. The present study is intended to examine variation by age groups in sales of regulated cannabis vape products in the state of California before, during, and after the outbreak. Methods: Weekly sales revenue of cannabis vape products (from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2020) was obtained from a sample of recreational cannabis retailers licensed in California. An interrupted time series analysis, using AutoRegressive, Integrated, Moving Average methods, was employed to estimate changes in the sales and market share of cannabis vape products in the weeks following the CDC advisory. Results: The total volume of regulated cannabis vape product sales increased substantially over the 3-year study period (2018-2020). Sales and market share of cannabis vape products, however, declined in both young and older adults immediately following the advisory, rebounding to pre-EVALI levels only for the young adults. For sales, the potential EVALI effect following the CDC's advisory equates to an 8.0% and 2.2% decline below expected levels in the older and young adults, respectively. Conclusions: The differential age effect on sales may reflect concerns regarding health effects of cannabis vaping products and greater awareness of the outbreak among older adults. Findings highlight the importance of informing consumers about health risks associated with using cannabis vape products acquired from regulated versus illicit sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Timberlake
- Department of Population Health and Disease Prevention, Society and Behavior, Program in Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Tim A Bruckner
- Department of Health, Society and Behavior, Program in Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Cornelia Pechmann
- The Paul Merage School of Business, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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Llewelyn-Williams J, Mykota D. Predictors of Cannabis Use Among Canadian University Students. CANNABIS (ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) 2023; 6:87-104. [PMID: 38035164 PMCID: PMC10683746 DOI: 10.26828/cannabis/2023/000160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Objective To examine the correlates between cannabis use, motives to use, related psychosocial outcomes and academic behaviours among a sample of Canadian university students. Methods A random sample of 6,000 students who were enrolled in at least one class and were 18 years or over were asked to complete a cross-sectional online survey. Of the 920 students that responded, 478 (ages 18-55; mean age = 25.02, SD = 5.95) identified as having used cannabis within the past six months and thus were included as participants in the current study. Participants completed a battery of measures designed to examine cannabis use and associated constructs (i.e., substance use risk, personal well-being, non-specific psychological distress, academic behaviours, and motivations for use). Results Among the participants, 31% (n = 148) were found to be frequent (i.e., hazardous) users. Using cannabis for enhancement, coping, expansion, sleep difficulties, and conformity purposes, as well as impulsive personality traits were found to be predictors of cannabis use severity, with the enhancement motive identified as the strongest predictor for the total sample, males, and hazardous users. The coping motive was the strongest predictor for females, and impulsivity was the strongest predictor for non-hazardous users. Conclusion Findings will help inform the development of campus guidelines for lower risk cannabis use. Information gleaned from this study will also provide important information for those that use cannabis, policymakers, and health care providers in considering optimal personal use, prevention, and intervention plans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Mykota
- Department of Educational Psychology and Special Education, University of Saskatchewan
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21
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Balneaves LG, Watling CZ, Strus JA, Boscow M, Davis L, Graveline K, Harrigan T, Henriquez N, Mitchell K, Thompson G. Baccalaureate nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, educational needs, and use of medical and non-medical cannabis at five institutions in Manitoba, Canada: A cross-sectional analysis. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2023; 130:105955. [PMID: 37677985 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2023.105955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the legalization of non-medical cannabis in Canada, cannabis is commonly used in the community and nurses and nursing students are likely to engage in clinical practice discussions around cannabis use for both medical and non-medical purposes. However, whether having previous experience using cannabis influences nursing students' knowledge and attitudes towards cannabis remains unclear. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, educational needs, and use of cannabis. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING Five academic undergraduate nursing programs in Manitoba, Canada. PARTICIPANTS Nursing students in Manitoba. METHODS Students were asked about their use of cannabis, knowledge and attitudes regarding cannabis, clinical experiences and educational needs related to cannabis. Students' current knowledge was compared to their desired knowledge using paired t-tests. Using t-tests, attitudes towards cannabis were compared between students who had ever taken cannabis versus those with no experience. Descriptive statistics were utilized for all other questions. RESULTS A total of 327 nursing students participated in the survey with 220 students (67.3 %) reporting they had used cannabis in the past, and 123 students (37.6 %) reporting monthly use of cannabis. Students who previously used cannabis held more positive attitudes towards both medical and non-medical cannabis use in comparison to those with no experience. Students recognised that their current knowledge around cannabis was insufficient and indicated the need for greater knowledge on both medical and non-medical cannabis-related topics. Only 37.7 % of students reported receiving any education on cannabis in their nursing program. Nearly all students (92.2 %) agreed if they had more education on medical cannabis use that they would feel more comfortable discussing this in their clinical practice. CONCLUSION Education on both medical and non-medical cannabis is needed to support future nurses addressing cannabis use in their clinical practice. Nursing institutions must implement and evaluate curricula to ensure nursing students are adequately prepared to address cannabis use in their clinical practice and their own fitness to practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda G Balneaves
- 89 Curry Place, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - Cody Z Watling
- 89 Curry Place, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | | | - Megan Boscow
- 436 7 St E, Faculty of Nursing, University College of the North, Thompson and The Pas, MB R9A 1T4, Canada.
| | - Lori Davis
- 89 Curry Place, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - Kellie Graveline
- 436 7 St E, Faculty of Nursing, University College of the North, Thompson and The Pas, MB R9A 1T4, Canada.
| | - Tom Harrigan
- 2055 Notre Dame Avenue, Nursing Department, Red River College Polytechnic, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0J9, Canada.
| | - Nadine Henriquez
- 270-18th Street, Faculty of Health Studies, Brandon University, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9, Canada.
| | - Kimberley Mitchell
- 89 Curry Place, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada; 2055 Notre Dame Avenue, Nursing Department, Red River College Polytechnic, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0J9, Canada.
| | - Genevieve Thompson
- 89 Curry Place, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
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22
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Howe EJ, Bishop LD, Torraville BS, Rowe EC, Kinzel E, Donnan JR. Canadian cannabis education resources to support youth health literacy: A scoping review and environmental scan. HEALTH EDUCATION JOURNAL 2023; 82:766-778. [PMID: 37927456 PMCID: PMC10620065 DOI: 10.1177/00178969231191085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Background The 2018 legalisation of cannabis in Canada sparked concern and conversation about the potential negative impacts of youth cannabis use. It is clear that young people are already engaging in cannabis use for a variety of reasons; therefore, youth cannabis education is desirable to promote harm reduction and reduce the risk of adverse physical and mental health outcomes. Objective To identify and categorise Canadian cannabis education resources using a social-ecological approach informed by the youth health literacy framework, considering multiple factors at the micro-, meso- and macro-levels that influence health literacy and impact behaviour. Methods In line with scoping review methodology, database searches and an environmental scan of materials were completed. Specific inclusion criteria were identified to encompass all Canadian cannabis education resources directed towards young people aged 9-18 years and adults in contact with youth. Results A total of 60 resources were identified and categorised using the youth health literacy framework in terms of their focus on (1) micro influences (resources for youth); (2) meso influences (resources for teachers, parents, mentors); and (3) macro influences (resources for indigenous communities and medical professionals). Conclusions While many resources were identified, issues exist with the accessibility, quality and multicultural considerations of such resources, warranting the development of comprehensive, evidence-based and harm reduction-focused cannabis education for youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Howe
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Lisa D. Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | | | - Emily C. Rowe
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Eden Kinzel
- Health Sciences Library, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Jennifer R. Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
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23
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Dunbar MS, Davis JP, Tucker JS, Seelam R, Rodriguez A, D'Amico EJ. Parallel trajectories of vaping and smoking cannabis and their associations with mental and physical well-being among young adults. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 251:110918. [PMID: 37611482 PMCID: PMC10538384 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaping and smoking are common modes of using cannabis (THC) among young adults, but little is known about how patterns of cannabis vaping and smoking unfold over time or how using one or both types of products may differently affect mental and physical well-being. This study examines parallel processes of cannabis vaping and smoking over 5 years and mental and physical outcomes in a sample of young adults. METHODS Annual surveys were conducted between 2016 and 2022 with a mostly California-based cohort of 2428 young adults. Parallel process growth mixture models examined trajectories of past-month frequency of cannabis vaping and smoking from ages 20 - 25. Classes were extracted based on parallel trajectories of vaped and smoked product use. Models assessed differences in self-reported mental (anxiety, depression) and physical (ailments, subjective overall) well-being outcomes in young adulthood across classes, adjusting for demographic characteristics and mental and physical well-being at pre-baseline (average age 19). RESULTS Four cannabis vaping/smoking classes emerged: low use of cannabis (84.7%), decreasing smoking, low-moderate vaping (7.1%), stable moderate smoking, decreasing vaping (4.6%), and rapid increasing dual use (3.4%). Classes were similar on physical well-being indicators in young adulthood. The rapid increasing dual use class showed higher anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to other classes. CONCLUSION Progression to higher frequency of both vaping and smoking cannabis in young adulthood may contribute to poorer mental well-being compared to other use patterns. Targeted efforts to reduce dual vaping and smoking in young people who use cannabis may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Dunbar
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Jordan P Davis
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, United States
| | - Joan S Tucker
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
| | - Rachana Seelam
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
| | - Anthony Rodriguez
- RAND Corporation, 20 Park Plaza, Suite 920, Boston, MA 02116, United States
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Wayne Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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25
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McMahon I, Harris-Lane LM, Donnan J, Bishop L, Harris N. Emerging adult perceptions of higher-risk cannabis consumption behaviours. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:127. [PMID: 37679733 PMCID: PMC10483777 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00860-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging adults have the highest cannabis consumption rates in Canada and are among the most vulnerable to cannabis-related harms. Since certain cannabis consumption behaviours carry greater risks of harm, the Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines (LRCUG) provide harm reduction strategies. To address a critical gap in the literature, the current study examined emerging adults' awareness of the guidelines and perceptions of higher-risk cannabis consumption behaviours identified within the LRCUG. METHODS Emerging adults (N = 653) between the ages of 18-25 years were recruited from across Canada. Participants were presented with five vignettes depicting a character's cannabis consumption behaviours. Each vignette focused on a unique aspect of the character's consumption (frequency, polysubstance use, family history of mental illness, method of consumption, and potency). Participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions within each of the five vignettes that were altered to capture varying levels of risk (e.g. weekly, almost daily, or daily consumption). Following each vignette, participants were asked to respond to four items relating to overall risk of harm, cognitive health, physical health, and mental health. RESULTS Participants perceived: (1) frequent consumption to be associated with greater risks than less frequent consumption; (2) simultaneous consumption of cannabis and tobacco as being associated with higher risk of harm, yet no difference between simultaneous consumption of cannabis and alcohol or cannabis consumption alone; (3) consuming cannabis with a family history of psychosis or substance use disorder as being associated with greater overall risk than consumption with no family history; (4) smoking and vaping cannabis as associated with more risk than ingesting edibles; and (5) higher-potency THC-dominant strains as being associated with more risk than lower-potency CBD-dominant strains, yet no difference between the two higher-potency THC-dominant strains. CONCLUSIONS While emerging adults seemed to appreciate the risks associated with some cannabis consumption behaviours, they had difficulty identifying appropriate levels of harm of other higher-risk behaviours. Through an improved understanding of emerging adult perceptions, effective education campaigns should be designed to improve the awareness of cannabis risks and encourage the uptake of harm reduction awareness and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isobel McMahon
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Laura M Harris-Lane
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Jennifer Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Lisa Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Nick Harris
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
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Boehnke KF, Martel MO, Smith T, He Y, Bergmans RS, Kruger DJ, Andwele M, Bevan S, Williams DA, Fitzcharles M. Medicinal Cannabis Use for Rheumatic Conditions in the US Versus Canada: Rationale for Use and Patient-Health Care Provider Interactions. ACR Open Rheumatol 2023; 5:443-453. [PMID: 37519131 PMCID: PMC10502834 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding how medical cannabis (MC) use is integrated into medical practice for rheumatic disease management is essential. We characterized rationale for MC use, patient-physician interactions around MC, and MC use patterns among people with rheumatic conditions in the US and Canada. METHODS We surveyed 3406 participants with rheumatic conditions in the US and Canada, with 1727 completing the survey (50.7% response rate). We assessed disclosure of MC use to health care providers, MC authorization by health care providers, and MC use patterns and investigated factors associated with MC disclosure to health care providers in the US versus Canada. RESULTS Overall, 54.9% of US respondents and 78.0% of Canadians reported past or current MC use, typically because of inadequate symptom relief from other medications. Compared to those in Canada, fewer US participants obtained MC licenses, disclosed MC use to their health care providers, or asked advice on how to use MC (all P values <0.001). Overall, 47.4% of Canadian versus 28.2% of US participants rated their medical professionals as their most trusted information source. MC legality in state of residence was associated with 2.49 greater odds of disclosing MC use to health care providers (95% confidence interval: 1.49-4.16, P < 0.001) in the US, whereas there were no factors associated with MC disclosure in Canada. Our study is limited by our convenience sampling strategy and cross-sectional design. CONCLUSION Despite widespread availability, MC is poorly integrated into rheumatic disease care, with most patients self-directing use with minimal or no clinical oversight. Concerted efforts to integrate MC into education and clinical policy is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ying He
- University of MichiganAnn Arbor
| | | | | | | | - Sian Bevan
- Arthritis Society CanadaTorontoOntarioCanada
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Gilson MS, Kilmer JR, Fleming CB, Rhew IC, Calhoun BH, Guttmannova K. Substance-Specific Risk Factors for Cannabis and Alcohol Use Among Young Adults Following Implementation of Nonmedical Cannabis Legalization. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2023; 24:1047-1057. [PMID: 36114976 PMCID: PMC10020123 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01435-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Laws regarding cannabis are rapidly changing in the USA as more states legalize nonmedical cannabis for adults aged 21 and older. Previous research has examined whether legalization has led to an increase in cannabis use as well as the use of other substances. The current study examined changes in cannabis- and alcohol-specific risk factors following legalization of nonmedical cannabis. We used 6 years of annual cross-sectional data (2014-2019) from 12,951 young adults age 18 to 25 who resided in Washington state. Risk factors examined include perceiving that use was common among same-age peers, believing use was acceptable, having easy access, and low perceived physical and psychological harm from use. Logistic regression models estimated annual rate of increase in these risk factors. All cannabis-specific risk factors increased among those aged 21+ (range of ORs for annual rate of change: 1.07-1.31) while significant increase in cannabis-related risk factors among those under age 21 was limited to perceptions of cannabis use being common (medical use: OR=1.08, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.12; nonmedical use: OR=1.13, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.18) and low perceived physical harm of occasional use (OR=1.08, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.13). Although descriptive norms for past-year use of alcohol among those aged 21+ increased (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.17), other risk factors for alcohol did not change significantly or, in the case of low perceived physical and psychological harm, decreased among both those under age 21 and those aged 21+ (range of ORs = 0.90-0.94). Given these findings show an increase in cannabis-specific risk factors since legalization was implemented, particularly among those young adults aged 21+, preventive interventions correcting risk misperceptions and related risk factors among young adults aged 21+ may prove efficacious in reducing use and resultant negative consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Gilson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, US.
| | - Jason R Kilmer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, US
| | - Charles B Fleming
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, US
| | - Isaac C Rhew
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, US
| | - Brian H Calhoun
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, US
| | - Katarina Guttmannova
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, US
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Robinson T, Ali MU, Easterbrook B, Hall W, Jutras-Aswad D, Fischer B. Risk-thresholds for the association between frequency of cannabis use and the development of psychosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3858-3868. [PMID: 35321777 PMCID: PMC10317818 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722000502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological studies show a dose-response association between cannabis use and the risk of psychosis. This review aimed to determine whether there are identifiable risk-thresholds between the frequency of cannabis use and psychosis development. METHODS Systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science for relevant studies (1 January 2010-26 April 2021). Case-control or cohort studies that investigated the relationship between cannabis use and the risk of psychosis development that reported effect estimates [odds ratios (OR), hazard ratios (HR), risk ratios (RR)] or the raw data to calculate them, with information on the frequency of cannabis consumption were included. Effect estimates were extracted from individual studies and converted to RR. Two-stage dose-response multivariable meta-analytic models were utilized and sensitivity analyses conducted. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of bias of included studies. RESULTS Ten original (three cohorts, seven case-control) studies were included, including 7390 participants with an age range of 12-65 years. Random-effect model meta-analyses showed a significant log-linear dose-response association between cannabis use frequency and psychosis development. A restricted cubic-splines model provided the best fit for the data, with the risk of psychosis significantly increasing for weekly or more frequent cannabis use [RR = 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93-1.11 yearly; RR = 1.10, 95% CI 0.97-1.25 monthly; RR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.19-1.52 weekly; RR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.47-2.12 daily]. CONCLUSION Individuals using cannabis frequently are at increased risk of psychosis, with no significant risk associated with less frequent use. Public health prevention messages should convey these risk-thresholds, which should be refined through further work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Robinson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Muhammad Usman Ali
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- McMaster Evidence Review and Synthesis Team, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bethany Easterbrook
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- MacDonald-Franklin Operational Stress Injury Research Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wayne Hall
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Donnan JR, Johnston K, Coombs M, Najafizada M, Bishop LD. Exploring Consumer Preferences for Cannabis Vaping Products to Support Public Health Policy: A Discrete Choice Experiment. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2023; 21:651-659. [PMID: 37060511 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-023-00804-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phase two of cannabis legalisation in Canada brought cannabis vaping products to the market. This decision was controversial due to an outbreak of vaping cannabis use-associated lung injury. This resulted in three provinces banning the sale of cannabis vaping products causing inequitable access. This study sought to explore consumer preferences for cannabis vaping products to inform cannabis policy. METHODS We used a discrete choice experiment to explore consumer preferences for attributes of cannabis vaping products. Attributes included type of device, price, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) potency, vape liquid content, product recommendations and Health Canada regulation. Participants lived in Canada, were aged ≥ 19 years, and had purchased a cannabis vape in the last 12 months. A multinomial logit (MNL) model was used for the base model, and latent class analysis to assess preference sub-groups. RESULTS In total, 384 participants completed the survey; the MNL model showed that price and potency were the most important attributes. A three-group latent class model showed that ~ 40% of the sample was driven primarily by Health Canada Regulation and were willing to pay $56 more for a product that was regulated compared to one that was not. About 33% of the sample was driven by price, and 26% was driven by type of device. CONCLUSION While regulated status by Health Canada was most important to some consumers (~ 40%), nearly 60% of the sample were willing to make trade-offs in regulated status for products with a lower price. Therefore, policymakers need to consider the broader public health implications of banning cannabis vapes in some regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, NL, St. John's, Canada.
| | - Karissa Johnston
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, NL, St. John's, Canada
| | - Michael Coombs
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, NL, St. John's, Canada
| | - Maisam Najafizada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Lisa D Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, NL, St. John's, Canada
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Calhoun BH, Graupensperger S, Fairlie AM, Walukevich-Dienst K, Patrick ME, Lee CM. "Wake-and-bake" cannabis use: Predictors and cannabis-related outcomes of use shortly after waking. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 248:109937. [PMID: 37236059 PMCID: PMC10330799 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.109937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given recent historical increases in young adults frequent cannabis use and changes in cannabis policies throughout the United States, there is a need to examine high-risk patterns of use. This paper examined predictors and cannabis-related outcomes of "wake-and-bake" cannabis use, operationalized as use within 30min of waking. METHODS Participants were 409 young adults (Mage=21.61 years, 50.8% female) enrolled in a longitudinal study on simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use (i.e., using alcohol and cannabis at the same time such that their effects overlap). Eligibility criteria included reporting alcohol use 3+ times and simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use 1+ times in the past month. Participants completed twice-daily surveys for six 14-day bursts across two calendar years. Aims were tested using multilevel models. RESULTS Analyses were limited to cannabis use days (9406 days; 33.3% of all sampled days), and thereby to participants who reported using cannabis (384 participants; 93.9% of the sample). Wake-and-bake use was reported on 11.2% of cannabis use days and at least once by 35.4% of participants who used cannabis. On wake-and-bake use days, participants were high for more hours and had greater odds of driving under the influence of cannabis, but did not experience more negative consequences, relative to non-wake-and-bake cannabis use days. Participants who reported more cannabis use disorder symptoms and those reporting higher average social anxiety motives for cannabis use reported more frequent wake-and-bake use. CONCLUSIONS Wake-and-bake cannabis use may be a useful marker of high-risk cannabis use, including driving under the influence of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian H Calhoun
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Box 357238, Seattle, WA, 98195-7238, USA.
| | - Scott Graupensperger
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Box 357238, Seattle, WA, 98195-7238, USA
| | - Anne M Fairlie
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Box 357238, Seattle, WA, 98195-7238, USA
| | - Katherine Walukevich-Dienst
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Box 357238, Seattle, WA, 98195-7238, USA
| | - Megan E Patrick
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, P.O. Box 1248, 426 Thompson St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48106-1248, USA
| | - Christine M Lee
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Box 357238, Seattle, WA, 98195-7238, USA
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31
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Kourgiantakis T, Lee E, Kosar AKT, Tait C, Lau CKY, McNeil S, Craig S, Ashcroft R, Williams CC, Goldstein AL, Chandrasekera U, Sur D, Henderson JL. Youth cannabis use in Canada post-legalization: service providers' perceptions, practices, and recommendations. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:36. [PMID: 37349741 PMCID: PMC10288694 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00550-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2018, Canada legalized recreational cannabis use with the purpose of protecting youth and restricting access. However, concerns have been raised that this objective has not been met as rates of cannabis use among youth aged 16-24 have not declined. Youth cannabis use is associated with various adverse effects including psychosis, anxiety, depression, suicidality, respiratory distress, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, and intoxications. Service providers play a crucial role in addressing youth cannabis use. This study aimed to understand Ontario service providers' perceptions, practices, and recommendations on youth cannabis use. METHODS This mixed method study included a survey and two focus groups. The survey was distributed to mental health service providers serving youth aged 16-24 across Ontario who were given the option to participate in a focus group. The survey included closed and open-ended questions regarding perceptions, practices, and recommendations, while the focus groups explored these categories in greater depth. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze close-ended questions and interpretative content analysis was applied for open-ended questions. Focus group data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The survey was completed by 160 service providers and 12 participated in two focus groups. Regarding perceptions, 60% of survey participants agreed with legalization, 26% had a strong understanding of medical versus recreational cannabis, 84% believed that cannabis has physical and mental health risks, and 49% perceived stigmatization. Less than half of the survey participants reported screening or assessing cannabis use, 16% stated they are highly familiar with treating cannabis use, and 67% reported that they rarely work with families. Subthemes identified in the focus groups under perceptions included normalization and stigmatization, harms for youth, and stigma, racism, and discrimination. Subthemes under practice included cannabis not being the primary focus, challenges with screening, assessment, and intervention, and referral to specialized services. Both the survey and focus group participants recommended increasing public education, enhancing service provider training, improving regulation and policies, reducing stigma and minimization, improving service access, and providing more culturally responsive services. CONCLUSION Youth cannabis use in Canada remains a significant public health concern, necessitating a more comprehensive plan to protect Ontario youth and reduce associated harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toula Kourgiantakis
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada.
| | - Eunjung Lee
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - A Kumsal Tekirdag Kosar
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Christine Tait
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Carrie K Y Lau
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Sandra McNeil
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Shelley Craig
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Rachelle Ashcroft
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Charmaine C Williams
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Abby L Goldstein
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Uppala Chandrasekera
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Deepy Sur
- Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - J L Henderson
- Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth and Family Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Cairns EA, Benson MJ, Bedoya-Pérez MA, Macphail SL, Mohan A, Cohen R, Sachdev PS, McGregor IS. Medicinal cannabis for psychiatry-related conditions: an overview of current Australian prescribing. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1142680. [PMID: 37346297 PMCID: PMC10279775 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1142680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Evidence is accumulating that components of the Cannabis sativa plant may have therapeutic potential in treating psychiatric disorders. Medicinal cannabis (MC) products are legally available for prescription in Australia, primarily through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Special Access Scheme B (SAS-B). Here we investigated recent prescribing practices for psychiatric indications under SAS-B by Australian doctors. Methods: The dataset, obtained from the TGA, included information on MC applications made by doctors through the SAS-B process between 1st November 2016 and 30th September 2022 inclusive. Details included the primary conditions treated, patient demographics, prescriber location, product type (e.g., oil, flower or capsule) and the general cannabinoid content of products. The conditions treated were categorized according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR). Trends in prescribing for conditions over time were analyzed via polynomial regression, and relationships between categorical variables determined via correspondence analyses. Results: Approximately 300,000 SAS-B approvals to prescribe MC had been issued in the time period under investigation. This included approvals for 38 different DSM-5-TR defined psychiatric conditions (33.9% of total approvals). The majority of approvals were for anxiety disorders (66.7% of psychiatry-related prescribing), sleep-wake disorders (18.2%), trauma- and stressor-related disorders (5.8%), and neurodevelopmental disorders (4.4%). Oil products were most prescribed (53.0%), followed by flower (31.2%) and other inhaled products (12.4%). CBD-dominant products comprised around 20% of total prescribing and were particularly prevalent in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder. The largest proportion of approvals was for patients aged 25-39 years (46.2% of approvals). Recent dramatic increases in prescribing for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder were identified. Conclusion: A significant proportion of MC prescribing in Australia is for psychiatry-related indications. This prescribing often appears somewhat "experimental", given it involves conditions (e.g., ADHD, depression) for which definitive clinical evidence of MC efficacy is lacking. The high prevalence of THC-containing products being prescribed is of possible concern given the psychiatric problems associated with this drug. Evidence-based clinical guidance around the use of MC products in psychiatry is lacking and would clearly be of benefit to prescribers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Cairns
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Melissa J. Benson
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Miguel A. Bedoya-Pérez
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sara L. Macphail
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adith Mohan
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Neuropsychiatric Institute, The Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Rhys Cohen
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Perminder S. Sachdev
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Neuropsychiatric Institute, The Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Iain S. McGregor
- The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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33
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Coelho SG, Wardell JD. Characterizing heterogeneity among people who use cannabis for medicinal reasons: A latent class analysis of a nationally representative Canadian sample. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 117:104076. [PMID: 37247474 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many individuals who use cannabis report doing so for medicinal reasons. Few studies have explored heterogeneity within this population, which may be important to inform targeted interventions. This study used latent class analysis to identify subgroups of people who use cannabis for medicinal reasons and their sociodemographic and cannabis-risk-related correlates. METHOD Data were drawn from the 2019 Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey, which is a representative survey of Canadians ages 15 years and older. Data from 814 individuals reporting past-year use of cannabis for medicinal or mixed medicinal and non-medicinal reasons were included. Latent class analysis was conducted with forms of cannabis used, cannabis use frequency, concurrent non-medicinal cannabis use, and the medical conditions and symptoms cannabis was used to manage as indicators. RESULTS Four distinct latent classes of medicinal cannabis use were identified: a non-daily cannabis flower for mental health and sleep class (39.56% of the sample), a non-daily cannabis flower for pain class (26.41% of the sample), a non-daily cannabis oil for physical health class (20.15% of the sample), and a daily multi-form cannabis for mental health and non-medical reasons class (13.88% of the sample). Sociodemographic factors and risk level for cannabis-related harms were associated with latent class membership. CONCLUSIONS Results of this study reveal considerable heterogeneity among people reporting medicinal cannabis use and suggest that the distinct patterns of cannabis use behaviors and motives observed may be important for understanding risk for cannabis-related harms in this population. Findings underscore a need for harm reduction interventions tailored toward specific patterns of medicinal cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey D Wardell
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
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Fischer B, Robinson T, Bullen C, Curran V, Jutras-Aswad D, Medina-Mora ME, Pacula R, Rehm J, Room R, van den Brink W, Hall W. Les 'Lignes Directrices Pour l'Usage du Cannabis à Moindre Risque (LUCMR)': RECOMMENDATIONS [The 'Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines (LRCUG)': RECOMMENDATIONS (FRENCH)]. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:103994. [PMID: 37055339 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.103994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Fischer
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Tessa Robinson
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Health Research Methodology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Chris Bullen
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand; National Institute for Health Innovation (NIHI), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Canada
| | - Maria Elena Medina-Mora
- Center for Global Mental Health Research, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosalie Pacula
- Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Sol Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, Toronto, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wim van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wayne Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, UK
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Fischer B, Robinson T, Bullen C, Curran V, Jutras-Aswad D, Medina-Mora ME, Pacula R, Rehm J, Room R, van den Brink W, Hall W. Las 'Guías para el Uso de Cannabis de Menor Riesgo (GUCMR)': RECOMENDACIONES [The 'Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines (LRCUG)': RECOMMENDATIONS (SPANISH)]. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:103996. [PMID: 37055340 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.103996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Fischer
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Tessa Robinson
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Health Research Methodology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Chris Bullen
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand; National Institute for Health Innovation (NIHI), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Canada
| | - Maria Elena Medina-Mora
- Center for Global Mental Health Research, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosalie Pacula
- Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Sol Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, Toronto, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wim van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wayne Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, UK
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Fischer B, Hall W, Fidalgo TM, Hoch E, Foll BL, Medina-Mora ME, Reimer J, Tibbo PG, Jutras-Aswad D. Recommendations for Reducing the Risk of Cannabis Use-Related Adverse Psychosis Outcomes: A Public Mental Health-Oriented Evidence Review. J Dual Diagn 2023; 19:71-96. [PMID: 37450645 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2023.2226588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Cannabis use is increasingly normalized; psychosis is a major adverse health outcome. We reviewed evidence on cannabis use-related risk factors for psychosis outcomes at different stages toward recommendations for risk reduction by individuals involved in cannabis use. Methods: We searched primary databases for pertinent literature/data 2016 onward, principally relying on reviews and high-quality studies which were narratively summarized and quality-graded; recommendations were developed by international expert consensus. Results: Genetic risks, and mental health/substance use problem histories elevate the risks for cannabis-related psychosis. Early age-of-use-onset, frequency-of-use, product composition (i.e., THC potency), use mode and other substance co-use all influence psychosis risks; the protective effects of CBD are uncertain. Continuous cannabis use may adversely affect psychosis-related treatment and medication effects. Risk factor combinations further amplify the odds of adverse psychosis outcomes. Conclusions: Reductions in the identified cannabis-related risks factors-short of abstinence-may decrease risks of related adverse psychosis outcomes, and thereby protect cannabis users' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Fischer
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Research and Graduate Studies Division, University of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, Canada
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wayne Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Thiago M Fidalgo
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eva Hoch
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, Munich, Germany
- Institut für Therapieforschung (IFT), Munich, Germany
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute and Acute Care Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Dalla Lana School of Public Health and Department of Psychiatry and Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, Canada
| | - Maria-Elena Medina-Mora
- Center for Global Mental Health Research, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jens Reimer
- Departments of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Academic Teaching Hospital Itzehoe, Itzehoe, Germany
| | - Philip G Tibbo
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Canada
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Édouard Montpetit Boulevard, Montreal, Canada
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Kitdumrongthum S, Trachootham D. An Individuality of Response to Cannabinoids: Challenges in Safety and Efficacy of Cannabis Products. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062791. [PMID: 36985763 PMCID: PMC10058560 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Since legalization, cannabis/marijuana has been gaining considerable attention as a functional ingredient in food. ∆-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoids are key bioactive compounds with health benefits. The oral consumption of cannabis transports much less hazardous chemicals than smoking. Nevertheless, the response to cannabis is biphasically dose-dependent (hormesis; a low-dose stimulation and a high-dose inhibition) with wide individuality in responses. Thus, the exact same dose and preparation of cannabis may be beneficial for some but toxic to others. The purpose of this review is to highlight the concept of individual variations in response to cannabinoids, which leads to the challenge of establishing standard safe doses of cannabis products for the general population. The mechanisms of actions, acute and chronic toxicities, and factors affecting responses to cannabis products are updated. Based on the literature review, we found that the response to cannabis products depends on exposure factors (delivery route, duration, frequency, and interactions with food and drugs), individual factors (age, sex), and susceptibility factors (genetic polymorphisms of cannabinoid receptor gene, N-acylethanolamine-hydrolyzing enzymes, THC-metabolizing enzymes, and epigenetic regulations). Owing to the individuality of responses, the safest way to use cannabis-containing food products is to start low, go slow, and stay low.
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Fischer B, Robinson T, Bullen C, Curran V, Jutras-Aswad D, Medina-Mora ME, Pacula R, Rehm J, Room R, van den Brink W, Hall W. Die ‘Richtlinien für die Risiko-Reduzierung beim Cannabiskonsum (RRRCK)’: EMPFEHLUNGEN [The ‘Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines (LRCUG)’: RECOMMENDATIONS (GERMAN)]. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:103995. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.103995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Harris-Lane LM, Drakes DH, Donnan JR, Rowe EC, Bishop LD, Harris N. Emerging Adult Perceptions of Cannabis Consumption Post-Legalization: Considering Age and Sex Differences. J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:404-411. [PMID: 36476394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Increased access to legalized non-medical cannabis has led to growing concern over the potential adverse health impacts of cannabis consumption among youth and emerging adults. This study explored emerging adult perceptions of cannabis consumption and if perceptions changed based on the age and sex of the cannabis consumer. METHODS Canadian emerging adults between the ages of 18 and 25 years (N = 1,424, Mean = 21.23) were randomly assigned to one of six vignettes that varied by age (14 years, 21 years, and 28 years) or sex (male, female) of the cannabis consumer. Participants were asked to rate seven single-item measures on perceived dangerousness, problematic consumption, negative impacts, and level of disapproval related to the vignette character's almost daily cannabis consumption. RESULTS The results of seven 2 × 3 factorial analyses of variance revealed a main effect of age on six of seven items, no main effects of sex, and no interactions. Except for social life, participants noted significant differences in harms of cannabis consumption by 14-year-olds, compared to 21-year-olds and 28-year-olds. There were no significant differences in overall perceived dangerousness, problematic consumption, or impact on mental or cognitive health between 21-year-olds and 28-year-olds. Participants perceived cannabis consumption by a 21-year-old to be more harmful to brain development and reported greater disapproval than consumption by a 28-year-old. DISCUSSION Emerging adults may appreciate the impacts of cannabis consumption within their age cohort on brain development and perceive greater risks for youth. Further education should focus on the potential cognitive and mental health impacts of cannabis in emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Harris-Lane
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Dalainey H Drakes
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada; School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Jennifer R Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Emily C Rowe
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada; School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Lisa D Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Nick Harris
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada.
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Imtiaz S, Nigatu YT, Ali F, Douglas L, Hamilton HA, Rehm J, Rueda S, Schwartz RM, Wells S, Elton-Marshall T. Cannabis legalization and cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis-related problems among adults in Ontario, Canada (2001-2019). Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 244:109765. [PMID: 36652851 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.109765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of cannabis legalization in Canada, we examined the effects on cannabis patterns of consumption, including cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis-related problems. In addition, we examined differential effects of cannabis legalization by age and sex. METHODS A pre-post design was operationalized by combining 19 iterations of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Monitor Surveys (N = 52,260; 2001-2019): repeated, population-based, cross-sectional surveys of adults in Ontario. Participants provided self-reports of cannabis use (past 12 months), daily cannabis use (past 12 months) and cannabis-related problems though telephone interviews. The effects of cannabis legalization on cannabis patterns of consumption were examined using logistic regression analyses, with testing of two-way interactions to determine differential effects by age and sex. RESULTS Cannabis use prevalence increased from 11 % to 26 % (p < 0.0001), daily cannabis use prevalence increased from 1 % to 6 % (p < 0.0001) and cannabis-related problems prevalence increased from 6 % to 14 % (p < 0.0001) between 2001 and 2019. Cannabis legalization was associated with an increased likelihood of cannabis use (OR, 95 % CI: 1.62, 1.40-1.86), daily cannabis use (1.59, 1.21-2.07) and cannabis-related problems (1.53, 1.20-1.95). For cannabis-related problems, a significant two-way interaction was observed between cannabis legalization and age (p = 0.0001), suggesting differential effects among adults ≥55 years. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis legalization was associated with an increased likelihood of cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis-related problems. Given increases in these cannabis patterns of consumption, broader dissemination and uptake of targeted prevention tools is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Imtiaz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Yeshambel T Nigatu
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Farihah Ali
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Laura Douglas
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada.
| | - Hayley A Hamilton
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada.
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Room 2374, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 8th Floor, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Chemnitzer Str. 46, 01187 Dresden, Germany; Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Trubetskaya Str., 8, B. 2, 119992 Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 8th Floor, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada.
| | - Robert M Schwartz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Samantha Wells
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Kresge Building, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; School of Psychology, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia.
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2S1, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 6th Floor, 155 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M7, Canada; School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario K1G 5Z3, Canada; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Kresge Building, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, SN 1006, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada.
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Drouin S, Rizkallah É, Conus F, Larney S, Kaur N, Djignefa Djade C, Jutras-Aswad D. Association Between Markers of Vulnerability for Cannabis-Related Harms and Source of Supply: Secondary Analysis of a Representative Population Survey. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2023; 68:109-118. [PMID: 36168206 PMCID: PMC9923133 DOI: 10.1177/07067437221128470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2018, the sale of non-medical cannabis was authorized in the province of Quebec in Canada, within a public monopoly under the Société Québécoise du Cannabis (SQDC). The objective of this study was to offer a description of the cannabis-using population regarding the sources of cannabis supply and to explore whether at-risk individuals are purchasing cannabis at SQDC. METHOD We used data from a cross-sectional, representative population survey (age >18 years, n = 1799), the Enquête Québécoise sur le Cannabis, which was completed between February and June 2019. Analyses involved adjusted binary logistic regressions, incorporating population weights, to assess 7 potential indicators of harm. RESULTS The vulnerability profiles of SQDC consumers (47.8%) and those acquiring their cannabis elsewhere (52.2%) were similar in terms of frequency of cannabis use (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.12-1.67), motivation to use (aOR = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.16-2.46), concomitant consumption of other substances (aOR = 0.80; 95% CI = 0.14-4.75), cannabis-impaired driving behaviours (aOR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.26-3.36), psychological distress (aOR = 0.99; 95% CI = 0.26-3.79), and problematic cannabis use (aOR = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.13-1.64). However, SQDC consumers were more likely to be aware of the cannabinoid content of the product purchased compared to those who acquired their cannabis from other sources (aOR = 4.12; 95% CI = 1.10-15.40). CONCLUSIONS No association was detected between the source of cannabis supply and potential vulnerability indicators of cannabis-related harms, but SQDC consumers were more aware of the cannabinoid content of the products purchased. These results suggest that the regulated government supply in Quebec is reaching a substantial portion of those with potential high vulnerability to harm. Whether this knowledge translates into a reduction in the negative consequences related to consumption is still to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Drouin
- 177460Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, 5622Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Élie Rizkallah
- 177460Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, 5622Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Florence Conus
- 25456Institut de la Statistique du Québec, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Sarah Larney
- 177460Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, and Emergency Medicine, 5622Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Navdeep Kaur
- 177460Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Codjo Djignefa Djade
- 177460Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- 177460Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, 5622Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Fischer B. Cannabis-Legalisierung in Deutschland. SUCHT 2023. [DOI: 10.1024/0939-5911/a000804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung: Zielsetzung: Die deutsche Bundesregierung hat beschlossen, den nicht-medizinischen Cannabis-Gebrauch und -Vertrieb zu legalisieren, und Kernpunkte des vorgesehenen Regelwerks vorgelegt. Einige dieser Kernpunkte werden aus der Sicht internationaler Erfahrungen und wissenschaftlicher Evidenz zur Legalisierung – insbesondere mit Blick auf Massnahmen und Ziele öffentlicher Gesundheit – eingeschätzt und kommentiert. Methodik: Selektive Zusammenfassung und policy-analytische Anwendung wissenschaftlicher Evidenz. Ergebnisse: Ein erheblicher Anteil von Cannabis-bezogenen Gesundheitsproblemen hängt mit dem Konsum von Hochpotenz- (THC) Produkten zusammen; allerdings würden kategorische THC-Grenzwerte für legal verfügbares Cannabis diese im Gesamten wahrscheinlich nicht reduzieren sondern primär Hochrisiko-Konsumenten weiter in der Illegalität belassen. Die Mindestalter-Grenze von 18 Jahren für legales Cannabis macht primär politischen Sinn und repräsentiert nicht unbedingt optimalen Gesundheits- oder sozialen Schutz für junge Konsumenten; allerdings wird der Cannabis-Konsum bei Minderjährigen wahrscheinlich weiter hoch blieben. Eine substanz-übergreifende, gesundheits-orientierte Angleichung mit den Gesetzesregelungen für andere Substanzen (z. B. Alkohol) wäre sinnvoll. Das Fahren unter Cannabis-Einfluss ist relativ häufig, und kann zu Verletzungs- und Todesfällen, und damit erheblicher Gesundheitsbelastung führen; seine Kontrolle braucht gezielte Aufklärungs- und Abschreckungs-Maßnahmen. Cannabis-Legalisierung ist mit einschlägigen internationalen (z. B. UN) Konventionen generell schwierig zu vereinbaren, sollte aber dazu genutzt werden, diese grundsätzlich auf der Basis von Prinzipien des Gesundheitsschutzes zu erneuern. Schlussfolgerungen: Für die Cannabis-Legalisierung in Deutschland gibt es kein perfektes Regelwerk; einige Kern-Ziele werden nur über Kompromiss-Ansätze zu erreichen sein, die im Zweifelsfall angepasst werden müssen. Wenn implementiert, wird Deutschland wichtige Daten zur Cannabis-Legalisierung als Politik-Option bieten können, wozu ein systematisches und umfassendes Prozess- und Ergebnis-Monitoring durchgeführt werden muss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Fischer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- School of Population Health, University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Manthey J. Harm Reduction und Cannabis: Was ändert sich durch die Legalisierung? SUCHT 2023. [DOI: 10.1024/0939-5911/a000798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung: Durch die Legalisierung ergeben sich zahlreiche Chancen, aber auch Unsicherheiten in Bezug auf Schadensminderung. Die Chancen liegen unter anderem in der verbesserten Aufklärung über gesundheitliche Risiken und in der Früherkennung von riskantem Cannabiskonsum. Weiterhin können die durch die Repression verursachten, umfangreichen Schäden durch die Legalisierung zu einem großen Teil reduziert bzw. verhindert werden. Schließlich sollten Instrumente wie THC-Mindestpreis und THC-gekoppelte Besteuerung, sowie Beschränkungen der Verkaufslizenzen und der Verkaufszeiten und -orte genutzt werden, um den Konsum zu steuern und Schäden zu minimieren. Größere Unsicherheiten bestehen insbesondere im Zusammenhang mit der Kommerzialisierung der Märkte sowie in der Regulierung des Eigenanbaus. Zusammenfassend ist zu erwarten, dass durch eine sorgfältige Regulierung die individuellen und gesellschaftlichen cannabisbedingten Schäden reduziert werden können.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Manthey
- Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre Suchtforschung (ZIS), Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Deutschland
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Exploring the Potential of Cannabinoid Nanodelivery Systems for CNS Disorders. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010204. [PMID: 36678832 PMCID: PMC9863859 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have a major therapeutic value in a variety of disorders. The concepts of cannabinoids are difficult to develop, but they can be used and are advantageous for a number of diseases that are not sufficiently managed by existing treatments. Nanoconjugation and encapsulation techniques have been shown to be effective in improving the delivery and the therapeutic effectiveness of drugs that are poorly soluble in water. Because the bioavailability of cannabinoids is low, the challenge is to explore different administration methods to improve their effectiveness. Because cannabinoids cross the blood-brain-barrier (BBB), they modify the negative effects of inflammatory processes on the BBB and may be a key factor in the improvement of BBB function after ischemic disease or other conditions. This review discusses various types of cannabinoid administration, as well as nanotechnologies used to improve the bioavailability of these compounds in CNS diseases.
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Tassone F, Di Ciano P, Liu Y, Rueda S. On offer to Ontario consumers three years after legalization: A profile of cannabis products, cannabinoid content, plant type, and prices. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1111330. [PMID: 36873222 PMCID: PMC9978145 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1111330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis was legalized in Canada in October 2018, regulating the production, distribution, sale, and possession of dried cannabis and cannabis oils. Additional products were legalized 1 year later, including edibles, concentrates, and topicals, with new lines of commercial products coming to market. Ontario is the most populous province in Canada and has the largest cannabis market with the highest number of in-person retail stores and the most cannabis products available online. This study aims to create a profile of products available to consumers three years after legalization by summarizing types of products, THC and CBD potency, plant type, and prices of product sub-categories. METHODS We extracted data from the website of the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS)-the public agency overseeing the only online store and sole wholesaler to all authorized in-person stores-in the first quarter of 2022 (January 19-March 23). We used descriptive analyses to summarize the data. A total of 1,771 available products were mapped by route of administration into inhalation (smoking, vaping, and concentrates), ingestible (edibles, beverages, oils, and capsules) and topical. RESULTS Most inhalation products included ≥20%/g THC (dried flower: 94%; cartridges: 96%; resin: 100%) while ingestible products had similar proportions of THC and CBD content. Indica-dominant products tend to be more prominent in inhalation products while sativa-dominant products tend to be more prominent in ingestible products. The average sale price of cannabis was 9.30 $/g for dried flower, 5.79 $/0.1g for cartridges, 54.82 $/g for resin, 3.21 $/unit for soft chews, 1.37 $/ml for drops, 1.52 $/unit for capsules, and 39.94 $/product for topicals. DISCUSSION In summary, a wide variety of cannabis products were available to Ontarians for different routes of administration and provides numerous indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, and hybrid/blend options. The current market for inhalation products however is geared towards the commercialization of high-THC products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicia Tassone
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia Di Ciano
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yuxin Liu
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Walker KL, Mackler SA, Noble SM, Gaudreault AE, Mitchell S, Reid RD, Pipe AL, Coutinho T, Mir H, Mullen KA. Prevalence, perceptions, and patterns of cannabis use among cardiac inpatients at a tertiary care hospital: A cross-sectional survey. CJC Open 2023; 5:315-324. [PMID: 37124964 PMCID: PMC10140739 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis use may adversely affect cardiovascular health. Patterns of use by cardiac patients are unknown. We evaluated the prevalence, perceptions, and patterns of cannabis use among cardiac inpatients. Methods A consecutive cross-section of cardiac inpatients, hospitalized between November 2019 and May 2020, were surveyed in-person or via telephone. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to examine the characteristics of cannabis use. Results The prevalence of past-12-month cannabis use was 13.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.8%-16.0%). Characteristics independently associated with cannabis use were as follows: age < 64 years (< 44 years, odds ratio [OR] = 3.96 [95% CI: 1.65-9.53]; age 45-64 years, OR = 2.72 [95% CI: 1.65-4.47]); tobacco use in the previous 6 months (OR = 1.91 [95% CI: 1.18-3.07]); having a cannabis smoker in one's primary social group (OR = 4.17 [95% CI: 2.73-6.38]); and a history of a mental health diagnosis (OR = 1.82 [95% CI: 1.19-2.79]). Among those using cannabis, 70.5% reported smoking or vaping it; 47.2% reported daily use. Most did not know the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 71.6%) or cannabidiol (CBD; 83.3%) content of their cannabis, or the dose of cannabis in their edibles (66.7%). As defined by Canada's Lower Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines, 96.7% of cannabis users reported ≥ 1 higher-risk use behaviour (mean = 2.3, standard deviation = 1.2). Over 60% of patients expressed no intention to quit or reduce cannabis use in the next 6 months. Conclusions Cannabis use appears prevalent among cardiac patients. Most users demonstrated higher-risk use behaviours and low intentions to quit. Further work is needed to understand the impacts of cannabis use on the cardiovascular system and to develop guidelines and educational tools relating to lower-risk use, for cardiac patients and providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L. Walker
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah A. Mackler
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shireen M. Noble
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrienne E. Gaudreault
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Scott Mitchell
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert D. Reid
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew L. Pipe
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thais Coutinho
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hassan Mir
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kerri-Anne Mullen
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Corresponding author: Kerri-Anne Mullen, 40 Ruskin Street, H-S134, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 4W7, Canada. Tel.: +1-613-696-7000, x19095.
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Baltes-Flueckiger L, Steinauer R, Meyer M, Vogel M, Walter M. Effects of cannabis regulation in Switzerland: Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1139325. [PMID: 37032954 PMCID: PMC10076568 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1139325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis is the most widely used illicit substance. Various countries have legalized cannabis for recreational use. Evidence on the health effects of cannabis regulation remains unclear and is mainly based on observational studies. To date, there is no randomized controlled study evaluating the impact of cannabis regulation for recreational use compared to the illicit market on relevant health indicators. The present study ("Weed Care") is the first to evaluate the impact of regulated cannabis access in pharmacies versus a waiting list control group representing the illicit market on problematic cannabis use as well as on mental and physical health. Methods The study is divided into two parts-a randomized controlled study of 6 months followed by an observational study of 2 years. Participants (N = 374) are randomly assigned to either the experimental group with access to legal cannabis in pharmacies or to the waiting list control group representing the current legal framework in Switzerland, namely the illicit market. After 6 months, all participants will have access to legal cannabis for the following 2 years (observational study). The primary outcome is problematic cannabis use as measured with the Cannabis Use Disorders Identification Test-Revised (CUDIT-R). Secondary outcomes are cannabis use patterns, mental disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, and psychosis) and physical health (e.g., respiratory symptoms). Primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed online every 6 months. The study is approved by the responsible ethics committee as well as by the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health. Discussion Findings from this study may provide a scientific basis for future discussions about addiction medicine and cannabis policy in Switzerland. Clinical Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05522205). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05522205.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Baltes-Flueckiger
- Psychiatric and Psychotherapeutic Clinic, Psychiatric Services Aargau, Windisch, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Lavinia Baltes-Flueckiger,
| | | | - Maximilian Meyer
- Psychiatric University Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Vogel
- Psychiatric University Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Walter
- Psychiatric and Psychotherapeutic Clinic, Psychiatric Services Aargau, Windisch, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Vreeke S, Faulkner DM, Strongin RM, Rufer E. A First-Tier Framework for Assessing Toxicological Risk from Vaporized Cannabis Concentrates. TOXICS 2022; 10:771. [PMID: 36548603 PMCID: PMC9782653 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10120771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Vaporization is an increasingly prevalent means to consume cannabis, but there is little guidance for manufacturers or regulators to evaluate additive safety. This paper presents a first-tier framework for regulators and cannabis manufacturers without significant toxicological expertise to conduct risk assessments and prioritize additives in cannabis concentrates for acceptance, elimination, or further evaluation. Cannabinoids and contaminants (e.g., solvents, pesticides, etc.) are excluded from this framework because of the complexity involved in their assessment; theirs would not be a first-tier toxicological assessment. Further, several U.S. state regulators have provided guidance for major cannabinoids and contaminants. Toxicological risk assessment of cannabis concentrate additives, like other types of risk assessment, includes hazard assessment, dose-response, exposure assessment, and risk characterization steps. Scarce consumption data has made exposure assessment of cannabis concentrates difficult and variable. Previously unpublished consumption data collected from over 54,000 smart vaporization devices show that 50th and 95th percentile users consume 5 and 57 mg per day on average, respectively. Based on these and published data, we propose assuming 100 mg per day cannabis concentrate consumption for first-tier risk assessment purposes. Herein, we provide regulators, cannabis manufacturers, and consumers a preliminary methodology to evaluate the health risks of cannabis concentrate additives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert M. Strongin
- Department of Chemistry, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97207, USA
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Fischer B, Hall W. Germany's evolving framework for cannabis legalization and regulation: Select comments based on science and policy experiences for public health. Lancet Reg Health Eur 2022; 23:100546. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2022.100546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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50
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Havemann-Reinecke U, Manthey J, Verthein U, Patzak J, Thomasius R, Tsamitros N, Gutwinksi S. Kommentare zu M. Adams und T. Effertz (2022): Notwendige Voraussetzungen einer kontrollierten Freigabe von Cannabis und anderer THC-haltiger Produkte. SUCHT 2022. [DOI: 10.1024/0939-5911/a000792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jakob Manthey
- Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre Suchtforschung (ZIS), Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Uwe Verthein
- Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre Suchtforschung (ZIS), Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
| | | | | | - Nikolaos Tsamitros
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen (UMG), Deutschland
| | - Stefan Gutwinksi
- Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik der Charité im St. Hedwig-Krankenhaus, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin und Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Deutschland
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