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Mims MM, Parikh AC, Sandhu Z, DeMoss N, Mhawej R, Queimado L. Surgery-Related Considerations in Treating People Who Use Cannabis: A Review. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2024; 150:918-924. [PMID: 39172477 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2024.2545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Importance Cannabis use has experienced substantial growth. Many patients treated by otolaryngologists are using cannabis in various forms, often without the knowledge of the treating surgeon. These cannabinoid substances have various systemic effects, and it is critical for otolaryngologists to recognize how cannabis use may contribute to a patient's care. Observations Cannabis use has effects that contribute to every phase of a surgeon's care. Preoperative counseling for tapering use may prevent increased rates of adverse effects. Care with anesthesia must be observed due to increased rates of myocardial ischemia, higher tolerance to standard doses, and prolonged sedation. Although results of studies are mixed, there may be an association with cannabis use and postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting. Postoperative wound healing may be improved through the use of topical cannabinoids. Significant drug-drug interactions exist with cannabis, most notably with several common anticoagulant medications. Care should be exercised when managing medications for people who use cannabis. While many people who use cannabis consume it infrequently, a substantial population has developed cannabis use disorder, which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality postoperatively. Screening for cannabis use disorder is important and can be done through short screening tools. Conclusions and Relevance Patients who use cannabis may require special attention regarding preoperative counseling and workup, intraoperative anesthesia, postoperative pain management, nausea, wound healing, and drug-drug interactions. As patient use continues to increase, otolaryngologists will find an increasing need to remain up to date on how cannabis use contributes to patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M Mims
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Aniruddha C Parikh
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Zainab Sandhu
- University of Oklahoma Medical School, Oklahoma City
| | - Noah DeMoss
- University of Oklahoma Medical School, Oklahoma City
| | - Rachad Mhawej
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Lurdes Queimado
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
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2
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Chang AJ, Mallat AF, Edwards MJ, Gabra JN, Cucci MD. Evaluation of pre-hospital cannabis exposure and hospital opioid utilization in a trauma population: A retrospective cohort. Injury 2024; 55:111305. [PMID: 38216357 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2023.111305] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cannabis utilization has increased over time for recreational and medical purposes due to its legalization or decriminalization. The effects of cannabis use on opioid utilization are not well understood. The primary objective was to evaluate the total opioid utilization, measured in morphine milligram equivalents (MME), in hospitalized trauma patients that tested positive for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on a urine drug screen (UDS). METHODS This was a retrospective, cohort study in a level 1 trauma center between 10/17/17 and 12/31/19. Adult trauma patients (aged 15 years and older) who had a UDS completed within 48 h of hospital arrival were eligible for inclusion. Patients were excluded for a hospitalization >14 days, death within 24 h, severe alcohol withdrawal, prescribed cannabinoids, high daily opioid use prior-to-arrival, or transitioned to hospice or palliative care. Group assignments were determined based on the presence or absence of THC on the UDS. RESULTS The analysis included 750 patients with 160 (21 %) THC positive patients. The population were primarily male (64.6 %), median age of 56 years [IQR 35-72], with blunt (93 %) injuries from motor vehicle crash or falls (79 %). The THC group was more likely to have other substances present, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, opiates, and cocaine. The THC group had a higher median injury severity score (10 [IQR 5-17] vs. 9 [5-14], p = 0.0056), and maximum abbreviated injury score (3 [IQR 2-3] vs. 2 [IQR 2-3], p = 0.0009). The THC group had a total higher median opioid utilization during the hospitalization (155 [IQR 68-367] vs. 62 [IQR 13-175] MME; p < 0.0001), which included higher opioid use in the emergency department, floor, and intensive care unit. There were no significant differences in secondary outcomes except the THC group was more likely to receive an opioid prescription at discharge and more likely to require mechanical ventilation. Based on multivariable regression analyses, other variables were associated with increased opioid utilization. CONCLUSION Pre-existing THC exposure may be associated with an increased hospital opioid utilization in a trauma population. However, other variables may also play a role in opioid utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Chang
- Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Department of Surgery, 1 Akron General Ave, Akron, OH, 44303, USA
| | - Ali F Mallat
- Executive Director, Acute Care Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Acute Care Surgery, Digestive Diseases and Surgery Institute, 1 Akron General Ave., Akron, OH, 44307, USA
| | - Marc J Edwards
- Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Department of Research, 1 Akron General Ave., Akron, OH, 44307, USA
| | - Joseph N Gabra
- Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Department of Research, 1 Akron General Ave., Akron, OH, 44307, USA
| | - Michaelia D Cucci
- Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Department of Pharmacy, 1 Akron General Ave., Akron, OH, 44307, USA.
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3
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El-Mourad J, Lunghi C, Herrera NP, Zongo A. Dosing of Cannabinoids Associated with an Opioid-Sparing Effect: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. Pain Manag Nurs 2024; 25:e8-e20. [PMID: 37689509 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess cannabinoid dosing that could be associated with a reduction in opioid use. DESIGN Systematic review conducted according to the PRISMA statement. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched up to December 10, 2022. REVIEW/ANALYSIS METHODS We included randomized controlled trials (RCT) and longitudinal observational studies assessing cannabinoids effect on opioid use in patients with acute or chronic pain. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies for inclusion and extracted the data. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoids with dosing were the exposures. Change in opioid doses and opioid discontinuation were the outcomes. RESULTS Fifteen studies (including seven RCTs) were included. Eight studies (six observational and two RCTs) were conducted among patients with chronic pain including three with cancer-related pain. Seven studies involved patients with acute pain (five RCTs).In chronic non-cancer pain patients, two observational studies that assessed THC and CBD in combination (average daily dose 17mg/15mg), and one that assessed a CBD-rich extract (31.4 mg/day), showed a significant reduction in opioid use. Of the three studies conducted on patients with cancer, only the observational study that assessed nabilone (average 1.7 mg/day) showed a significant reduction in opioid use. In patients with acute pain, only two observational studies that assessed dronabinol (5mg and 5-10 mg/day for four days) showed a significant reduction in opioid use. CONCLUSION The opioid-sparing effect of cannabinoids remains uncertain based on current evidence. However, attention could be paid to cannabinoid doses associated with opioid reduction in included observational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihane El-Mourad
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Population Health and Optimal Health Practices Research Unit, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Carlotta Lunghi
- Population Health and Optimal Health Practices Research Unit, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada; Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Québec, Canada; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Norma Perez Herrera
- Population Health and Optimal Health Practices Research Unit, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Arsène Zongo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Population Health and Optimal Health Practices Research Unit, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Centre, Québec, Canada.
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4
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Lee N, Le EL, Constantine R, Iorio ML. Patterns of Opioid Demand after Operative Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2023; 11:e4901. [PMID: 37020989 PMCID: PMC10069858 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000004901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate opioid demand after open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures in patients with and without a diagnosis of cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayun Lee
- From the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colo
| | - Elliot L.H. Le
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, Colo
| | - Ryan Constantine
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, Colo
| | - Matthew L. Iorio
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, Colo
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Shah S, Schwenk ES, Sondekoppam RV, Clarke H, Zakowski M, Rzasa-Lynn RS, Yeung B, Nicholson K, Schwartz G, Hooten WM, Wallace M, Viscusi ER, Narouze S. ASRA Pain Medicine consensus guidelines on the management of the perioperative patient on cannabis and cannabinoids. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2023; 48:97-117. [PMID: 36596580 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2022-104013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The past two decades have seen an increase in cannabis use due to both regulatory changes and an interest in potential therapeutic effects of the substance, yet many aspects of the substance and their health implications remain controversial or unclear. METHODS In November 2020, the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine charged the Cannabis Working Group to develop guidelines for the perioperative use of cannabis. The Perioperative Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids Guidelines Committee was charged with drafting responses to the nine key questions using a modified Delphi method with the overall goal of producing a document focused on the safe management of surgical patients using cannabinoids. A consensus recommendation required ≥75% agreement. RESULTS Nine questions were selected, with 100% consensus achieved on third-round voting. Topics addressed included perioperative screening, postponement of elective surgery, concomitant use of opioid and cannabis perioperatively, implications for parturients, adjustment in anesthetic and analgesics intraoperatively, postoperative monitoring, cannabis use disorder, and postoperative concerns. Surgical patients using cannabinoids are at potential increased risk for negative perioperative outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Specific clinical recommendations for perioperative management of cannabis and cannabinoids were successfully created.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Shah
- Dept of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Care, UC Irvine Health, Orange, California, USA
| | - Eric S Schwenk
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Hance Clarke
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Univ Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Zakowski
- Anesthesiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Brent Yeung
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | - Gary Schwartz
- AABP Integrative Pain Care, Melville, New York, USA.,Anesthesiology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | | | - Mark Wallace
- Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Eugene R Viscusi
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samer Narouze
- Center for Pain Medicine, Western Reserve Hospital, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, USA
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6
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Salottolo K, McGuire E, Madayag R, Tanner AH, Carrick MM, Bar-Or D. Validity between self-report and biochemical testing of cannabis and drugs among patients with traumatic injury: brief report. J Cannabis Res 2022; 4:29. [PMID: 35676744 PMCID: PMC9178863 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-022-00139-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The relationship between drug use and traumatic injury is well documented, yet only a small proportion of patients are biochemically tested for cannabis and other substances. The study objective was to determine whether patient self-report can be used as a proxy for biochemical drug testing following traumatic injury.
Methods
This study was a secondary analysis that included 320 patients admitted to four level I trauma centers in Colorado and Texas, primarily involved in motor vehicle crash (89%). If performed, biochemical testing was collected via urine toxicology screen (“tox screen”) for cannabis, amphetamines, barbiturates, cocaine, opiates, PCP, and benzodiazepines. All patients were screened for self-reported current drug use, which was evaluated for any drug and specifically for cannabis use. Analyses used to compare results of self-reported drug use and tox screen included sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values, and percent agreement.
Results
Among 320 patients, 23% (n = 75) self-reported drug use; cannabis was the most frequently reported drug (n = 63). A tox screen was performed in 59% of patients (n = 190); the proportion of patients who had a tox screen was similar for those self-reporting drug use (60.0%) to those who denied using drugs (59.2%), p = 0.90. Among patients who had a tox screen performed, 18% (n = 35) tested positive for any drug, 12% (n = 22) tested positive for THC, and 7% (n = 13) tested positive for opiates. The percent agreement was 80% for any drug and 81% for cannabis. The specificity was 84–85%, indicating a high likelihood that a patient will not have a positive tox screen if they do not report using drugs. Negative predictive values were 90–95%, indicating a negative self-report correctly identified nearly all patients testing negative on tox screen. Sensitivity was only 60% and positive predictive values were 30–47% for cannabis and drugs, respectively.
Conclusion
These findings may negate the need for biochemical drug testing in this population, particularly as a “rule out” based on self-reporting. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings and should address risk of selection bias.
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Opioid-sparing effect of cannabinoids for analgesia: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical and clinical studies. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:1315-1330. [PMID: 35459926 PMCID: PMC9117273 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01322-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid co-administration may enable reduced opioid doses for analgesia. This updated systematic review on the opioid-sparing effects of cannabinoids considered preclinical and clinical studies where the outcome was analgesia or opioid dose requirements. We searched Scopus, Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, Medline, and Embase (2016 onwards). Ninety-two studies met the search criteria including 15 ongoing trials. Meta-analysis of seven preclinical studies found the median effective dose (ED50) of morphine administered with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol was 3.5 times lower (95% CI 2.04, 6.03) than the ED50 of morphine alone. Six preclinical studies found no evidence of increased opioid abuse liability with cannabinoid administration. Of five healthy-volunteer experimental pain studies, two found increased pain, two found decreased pain and one found reduced pain bothersomeness with cannabinoid administration; three demonstrated that cannabinoid co-administration may increase opioid abuse liability. Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found no evidence of opioid-sparing effects of cannabinoids in acute pain. Meta-analysis of four RCTs in patients with cancer pain found no effect of cannabinoid administration on opioid dose (mean difference -3.8 mg, 95% CI -10.97, 3.37) or percentage change in pain scores (mean difference 1.84, 95% CI -2.05, 5.72); five studies found more adverse events with cannabinoids compared with placebo (risk ratio 1.13, 95% CI 1.03, 1.24). Of five controlled chronic non-cancer pain trials; one low-quality study with no control arm, and one single-dose study reported reduced pain scores with cannabinoids. Three RCTs found no treatment effect of dronabinol. Meta-analyses of observational studies found 39% reported opioid cessation (95% CI 0.15, 0.64, I2 95.5%, eight studies), and 85% reported reduction (95% CI 0.64, 0.99, I2 92.8%, seven studies). In summary, preclinical and observational studies demonstrate the potential opioid-sparing effects of cannabinoids in the context of analgesia, in contrast to higher-quality RCTs that did not provide evidence of opioid-sparing effects.
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8
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Bar-Lev Schleider L, Mechoulam R, Sikorin I, Naftali T, Novack V. Adherence, Safety, and Effectiveness of Medical Cannabis and Epidemiological Characteristics of the Patient Population: A Prospective Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:827849. [PMID: 35223923 PMCID: PMC8864967 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.827849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the absence of rigorous prospective studies, there has been an increase in the use of cannabis-based medicinal products. During the study period, the use of medical cannabis in Israel was tightly regulated by national policy. Through a prospective study of approximately 10,000 patients, we aimed to characterize the medical cannabis patient population as well as to identify treatment adherence, safety, and effectiveness. Methods and Findings In this study of prescribed medical cannabis patients, adherence, safety, and effectiveness were assessed at 6 months. Treatment adherence was assessed by the proportion of patients purchasing the medication out of the total number of patients (excluding deceased cases and patients transferred to another cannabis clinic). Safety was assessed by the frequency of the side-effects, while effectiveness was defined as at least moderate improvement in the patient condition without treatment cessation or serious side-effects. The most frequent primary indications requiring therapy were cancer (49.1%), followed by non-specific pain (29.3%). The average age was 54.6 ± 20.9 years, 51.1% males; 30.2% of the patients reported prior experience with cannabis. During the study follow-up, 1,938 patients died (19.4%) and 1,735 stopped treatment (17.3%). Common side-effects, reported by 1,675 patients (34.2%), were: dizziness (8.2%), dry mouth (6.7%), increased appetite (4.7%), sleepiness (4.4%), and psychoactive effect (4.3%). Overall, 70.6% patients had treatment success at 6 months. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the following factors were associated with treatment success: cigarette smoking, prior experience with cannabis, active driving, working, and a young age. The main limitation of this study was the lack of data on safety and effectiveness of the treatment for patients who refused to undergo medical assessment even at baseline or died within the first 6 months. Conclusions We observed that supervised medical-cannabis treatment is associated with high adherence, improvement in quality of life, and a decrease in pain level with a low incidence of serious adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihi Bar-Lev Schleider
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel.,Research Department, Tikun Olam - Cannbit Pharmaceuticals, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Institute for Drug Research, Medical Faculty Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Inbal Sikorin
- Geriatric Department, Hadarim Nursing Home, Naan, Israel
| | - Timna Naftali
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba and Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Victor Novack
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel.,Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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9
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Stewart C, Fong Y. Concerns about Recommendations for Perioperative Cannabis Use-Reply. JAMA Surg 2021; 156:989. [PMID: 34132757 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2021.2265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,Department of Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
| | - Yuman Fong
- Department of Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
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10
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Davidson EM, Raz N, Eyal AM. Concerns about Recommendations for Perioperative Cannabis Use. JAMA Surg 2021; 156:988-989. [PMID: 34132761 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2021.2262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elyad M Davidson
- Department of Anesthesiology, CCM and Pain Relief, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Noa Raz
- Bazelet Medical Cannabis Group, Or Akiva, Israel
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11
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McAfee J, Boehnke KF, Moser SM, Brummett CM, Waljee JF, Bonar EE. Perioperative cannabis use: a longitudinal study of associated clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2020; 46:137-144. [PMID: 33208521 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2020-101812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increases in cannabis use generally and for pain management, data regarding cannabis use in patients undergoing surgery are lacking. This study examined the prevalence of cannabis use among patients undergoing elective surgery and explored differences in clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes between cannabis users and non-cannabis users. METHODS This prospective study included 1335 adults undergoing elective surgery. Participants completed self-report questionnaires preoperative and at 3-month and 6-month postsurgery to assess clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes. RESULTS Overall, 5.9% (n=79) of patients reported cannabis use (53.2% medical, 19.0% recreational and 25.3% medical and recreational). On the day of surgery, cannabis users reported worse pain, more centralized pain symptoms, greater functional impairment, higher fatigue, greater sleep disturbances and more symptoms of anxiety and depression versus non-cannabis users (all p<0.01). Additionally, a larger proportion of cannabis users reported opioid (27.9%) and benzodiazepine use (19.0%) compared with non-cannabis users (17.5% and 9.2%, respectively). At 3 and 6 months, cannabis users continued to report worse clinical symptoms; however, both groups showed improvement across most domains (p≤0.05). At 6 months, the groups did not differ on surgical outcomes, including surgical site pain (p=0.93) or treatment efficacy (p=0.88). CONCLUSIONS Cannabis use is relatively low in this surgical population, yet cannabis users have higher clinical pain, poorer scores on quality of life indicators, and higher opioid use before and after surgery. Cannabis users reported similar surgical outcomes, suggesting that cannabis use did not impede recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna McAfee
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kevin F Boehnke
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephanie M Moser
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Chad M Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer F Waljee
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Erin E Bonar
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Injury Prevention Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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12
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Urinary cannabinoid mass spectrometry profiles differentiate dronabinol from cannabis use. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 510:515-521. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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14
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Adamson M, Di Giovanni B, Delgado DH. The positive and negative cardiovascular effects of cannabis. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2020; 18:905-917. [PMID: 33054426 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2020.1837625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of cannabis and its derivatives have increased steadily over the past few decades, prompting patients and clinicians to increasingly inquire about its health effects and safety profile. However, despite promising evidence suggesting therapeutic utilization, cannabis remains a controlled substance in most countries and is largely considered to have no medical or recreational benefit; thus, a lack of observational studies and randomized control trials exist to outline positive and negative health implications. Ultimately, this leaves patients, health-care professionals, and policymakers without necessary evidence required to make informed decisions on cannabis use. AREAS COVERED This review outlines cannabis in a clinical setting and delves into specific effects of cannabinoids on cardiovascular health and disease. It discusses positive and negative health implications associated with cannabis, mechanisms in cardiovascular disease, and reveals methods guiding cannabis use in the clinical setting. EXPERT OPINION Advances in research are necessary to guide decisions regarding cannabinoid use. Countries that have federally legalized cannabis have a unique opportunity to study cardiovascular implications in an unbiased and comprehensive manner. Ultimately, as cannabis use will inevitably increase, researchers, clinicians, and policymakers must work together to ensure cannabis is utilized in a way that is therapeutically beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Adamson
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto , Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, Heart Failure and Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bennett Di Giovanni
- Division of Cardiology, Heart Failure and Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Diego H Delgado
- Division of Cardiology, Heart Failure and Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, ON, Canada
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Clarke H, Roychoudhury P, Ladha KS, Leroux T, Fiorellino J, Huang A, Kotra LP. Daring discourse - yes: practical considerations for cannabis use in the perioperative setting. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2020; 45:524-527. [PMID: 32471923 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2020-101521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hance Clarke
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Priodarshi Roychoudhury
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karim S Ladha
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anesthesia, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timothy Leroux
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The Arthritis Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joseph Fiorellino
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexander Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lakshmi P Kotra
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Efficacy of Dronabinol for Acute Pain Management in Adults with Traumatic Injury: Study Protocol of A Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10030161. [PMID: 32178232 PMCID: PMC7139558 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and other cannabinoids present in cannabis (marijuana) have been shown to affect the normal inhibitory pathways that influence nociception in humans. The potential benefits of cannabinoids as an analgesic are likely greatest in hyperalgesic and inflammatory states, suggesting a role as a therapeutic agent for treating acute pain following injury. Dronabinol is a licensed form of Δ9-THC. The primary objective of this single center randomized controlled trial is to evaluate the efficacy of adjunctive dronabinol versus control (systemic analgesics only, no dronabinol) for reducing opioid consumption in adults with traumatic injury. Study inclusion is based on high baseline utilization of opioids ≥50 morphine equivalents (mg) within 24 h of admission for adults aged 18-65 years with traumatic injury. There is a 48-hour screening period followed by a 48-hour treatment period after randomization. A total of 122 patients will be randomized 1:1 across 2 study arms: adjunctive dronabinol versus control (standard of care using systemic analgesics, no adjunctive dronabinol). Patients randomized to the dronabinol arm should receive their first dose within 12 h of randomization, with a dose range of 5 mg up to 30 mg daily in divided doses, in addition to systemic analgesics as needed for pain. The primary efficacy endpoint is a change in opioid consumption (morphine equivalents), assessed post-randomization (48 h after randomization) minus pre-randomization (24 h prior to randomization). This is the first randomized trial to investigate whether adjunctive dronabinol is effective in reducing opioid consumption in acute pain management of traumatic injury. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03928015.
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