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Boehnke KF, Scott JR, Martel MO, Smith T, Bergmans RS, Kruger DJ, Williams DA, Fitzcharles MA. Substituting Medical Cannabis for Medications Among Patients with Rheumatic Conditions in the United States and Canada. ACR Open Rheumatol 2024. [PMID: 39236308 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There are numerous reports of people substituting medical cannabis (MC) for medications. Our obejctive was to investigate the degree to which this substitution occurs among people with rheumatic conditions. METHODS In a secondary analysis from a cross-sectional survey conducted with patient advocacy groups in the US and Canada, we investigated MC use and medication substitution among people with rheumatic conditions. We subgrouped by whether participants substituted MC for medications and investigated differences in perceived symptom changes and use patterns, including methods of ingestion, cannabinoid content (cannabidiol vs delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]), and use frequency. RESULTS Among 763 participants, 62.5% reported substituting MC products for medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (54.7%), opioids (48.6%), sleep aids (29.6%), and muscle relaxants (25.2%). Following substitution, most participants reported decreases or cessation in medication use. The primary reasons for substitution were fewer adverse effects, better symptom management, and concerns about withdrawal symptoms. Substitution was associated with THC use and significantly higher symptom improvements (including pain, sleep, anxiety, and joint stiffness) than nonsubstitution, and a higher proportion of substitutors used inhalation routes than those who did not. CONCLUSION Although the determination of causality is limited by our cross-sectional design, these findings suggest that an appreciable number of people with rheumatic diseases substitute medications with MC for symptom management. Inhalation of MC products containing some THC was most commonly identified among those substituting, and disease characteristics did not differ by substitution status. Further study is needed to better understand the role of MC for symptom management in rheumatic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Ryan Scott
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
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da Costa-Oliveira C, Pereira ML, de Carvalho NF, Silvério LAL, Jessé Ramos Y, Mazzola PG. Exploring the Significance of Pharmaceutical Care in Mental Health: A Spotlight on Cannabis. PHARMACY 2024; 12:100. [PMID: 39051384 PMCID: PMC11270281 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy12040100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Although preliminary evidence suggests Cannabis's efficacy in symptom control for anxiety and depression-psychiatric disorders that significantly impact mental health-much remains to be understood about its effects on the central nervous system (CNS) and how to optimize treatment for these disorders. This study aims to conduct a narrative review to evaluate pharmaceutical care in treating symptoms of anxiety and depression alongside Cannabis use, focusing on safety and therapeutic efficacy optimization. We seek to conceptualize anxiety and depression disorders, review evidence on Cannabis use, evaluate the evidence quality, and identify knowledge gaps. Twelve articles were identified, revealing a significant gap in the literature regarding the integration of pharmaceutical care with Cannabis-based therapies, specifically for anxiety and depression. Despite a growing interest in the relationship between Cannabis and mental health, current research is insufficient for a comprehensive understanding. The relationship between Cannabis use and anxiety and depression disorders requires further, more targeted investigations. This study underscores the importance of future research to fill existing gaps, providing informed insights and robust guidelines for the safe and effective use of Cannabis as part of the treatment for anxiety and depression. It is crucial that pharmaceutical care integrates these therapies responsibly to improve the overall well-being of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudete da Costa-Oliveira
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, Brazil
- APEPI—Medicinal Cannabis Research and Patient Support Association, Rio de Janeiro 20040-030, Brazil
| | - Michele Lafayette Pereira
- Faculdade de Ciências Biológicas e Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Campus Zona Oeste, Rio de Janeiro 23070-200, Brazil
| | - Nicole Ferrari de Carvalho
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas 13083-871, Brazil; (N.F.d.C.); (L.A.L.S.); (P.G.M.)
| | - Luiza Aparecida Luna Silvério
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas 13083-871, Brazil; (N.F.d.C.); (L.A.L.S.); (P.G.M.)
| | - Ygor Jessé Ramos
- Farmácia da Terra Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40170-115, Brazil;
| | - Priscila Gava Mazzola
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas 13083-871, Brazil; (N.F.d.C.); (L.A.L.S.); (P.G.M.)
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Pipitone RN, Banai B, Walters J, Dautrich T, Schuller K, Rosenthal M. Using Smartphone Technology to Track Real-Time Changes in Anxiety/Depression Symptomatology Among Florida Cannabis Users. CANNABIS (ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) 2024; 7:123-134. [PMID: 38975597 PMCID: PMC11225978 DOI: 10.26828/cannabis/2024/000223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Objective Recent scientific attention has focused on the therapeutic effectiveness of cannabis use on a variety of physical and mental ailments. The present study uses smartphone technology to assess self-reported experiences of Florida cannabis users to understand how cannabis may impact anxiety and depression symptomatology. Method Several hundred Releaf App™ users from the state of Florida provided anonymous, real-time reports of their symptoms of anxiety and/or depression immediately before and after cannabis use sessions. Linear mixed-effects modeling was used to analyze the data at the symptom and user level. Results Results showed that for the majority of users, cannabis use was associated with a significant decrease in depression and anxiety symptomatology. While symptom type, doses per session, consumption method, and CBD levels were significant predictors of relief change, their effect sizes were small and should be interpreted with caution. At the user level, those who had positive relief outcomes in anxiety reported more doses and sessions, and those in the depression group reported more sessions. Conclusions Our results generally support the therapeutic effectiveness of cannabis against depression/anxiety symptomatology. Future work should include standardized statistics and effect size estimates for a better understanding of each variable's practical contribution to this area of study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin Banai
- Banai Analitika, Josipa Jurja Strossmayera 341, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Jessica Walters
- CannaMD, 7932 West Sand Lake Road, Suite 205, Orlando, FL 32819
| | - Tyler Dautrich
- MoreBetter (Releaf App), PO Box 382, Hyattsville, MD 20781-0382
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Tao X, Yip T, Fisher CB. Employment, coronavirus victimization distress, and substance use disorders among black and non-Hispanic White young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024; 23:320-339. [PMID: 35758224 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2091702] [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] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Substance abuse among young adults increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although pre-pandemic data indicate non-Hispanic White adults had higher levels of substance use disorder (SUD), Black adults suffered more serious consequences. The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new stressors that may contribute to SUD, especially among Black young adults, including employment as essential workers, which may be related to victimization distress associated with the coronavirus (i.e., coronavirus victimization distress). The current study administered an anonymous, cross-sectional, online survey to a national sample of 132 Black and 141 non-Hispanic White adults 18 - 25 years to assess the relationship between health, economic disparities, employment, coronavirus victimization distress, and substance use during the first wave of the pandemic. Controlling for COVID-19 health risks and income, structural equation models indicated that coronavirus victimization distress fully accounted for the positive association between employment and SUD risk, and this association was more pronounced among Black young adults. Findings underscore the urgency of considering disease-related victimization in SUD interventions involving employed young adults during infectious disease pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Tao
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Tiffany Yip
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Celia B Fisher
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
- Center for Ethics Education, Fordham University, Bronx, NY, USA
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Sami F, Berg S, Manadan AM, Mycyk MB. Acetaminophen overdose: analysis of 2018 US nationwide emergency database. Intern Emerg Med 2024:10.1007/s11739-024-03555-1. [PMID: 38446370 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-024-03555-1] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recognized risk factors for acetaminophen overdose include alcohol, opioids, and mood disorders. The aim of this study is to assess additional risk factors for acetaminophen overdose evaluated in the emergency department (ED). METHODS A retrospective study was performed using the 2018 US Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS). All adult ED visits for acetaminophen overdose were included in the study group and those without it were taken as control. STATA, 16.1 was used to perform multivariable logistic regression analysis and adjusted odds ratios (ORadj) were reported. RESULTS We identified 27,792 ED visits for acetaminophen overdose. Relative to non-acetaminophen ED visits, this group was younger (median age 32 vs 47 years; p < 0.0001), more often female (66.1% vs 57.0%; p < 0.0001), had higher ED charges ($3,506 vs $2,714; p < 0.0001), higher proportion of alcohol-related disorders (15.8% vs 3.5%; p < 0.0001), anxiety disorders (30.2% vs 8.3%; p < 0.0001), cannabis use (8.7% vs 1.4%; p < 0.0001), hematology/oncology diagnoses (13.3% vs 10.9%; p < 0.0001), mood disorders (52.4% vs 7.9%; p < 0.0001), opioid-related disorders (4.1% vs 1.0%; p < 0.0001), and suicide attempt/ideation (12.2% vs 1.1%; p < 0.0001). Multivariable analysis showed alcohol-related disorders (ORadj 2.67), anxiety disorders (ORadj 1.24), cannabis (ORadj 1.63), females (ORadj 1.45), Income Q3 (ORadj 1.09), hematology/oncology diagnoses (ORadj 1.40), mood disorders (ORadj 10.07), opioid-related disorders (ORadj 1.20), and suicide attempt/ideation (ORadj 1.68) were associated with acetaminophen overdose. CONCLUSION In addition to previously recognized risks, our study demonstrated that cannabis use and hematologic/oncologic comorbidities were more common among acetaminophen-overdose ED visits. These new findings are concerning because of rapid legalization of cannabis and the increasing incidence of cancer worldwide. Additional investigation into these risks should be a priority for clinicians, policymakers, and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faria Sami
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cook County Health, 1950 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Sarah Berg
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Medical Toxicology, Cook County Health, Chicago, USA
| | | | - Mark B Mycyk
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cook County Health, Chicago, USA
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Duhart Clarke SE, Victor G, Lynch P, Suen LW, Ray B. Cannabis donation as a harm reduction strategy: a case study. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:58. [PMID: 38449029 PMCID: PMC10916026 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00974-3] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The United States (US) continues to experience unprecedented rates of overdose mortality and there is increased need to identify effective harm reduction practices. Research from Canada describes cannabis donation through harm reduction agencies as an adjunctive strategy to mitigate the negative consequences of more harmful drugs. This case study describes the operational logistics, feasibility, and potential benefits of a cannabis donation program that was operated through a harm reduction program in rural Michigan. CASE PRESENTATION We applied a community driven research approach to gather information from harm reduction program staff about the implementation and evolution of cannabis donation efforts in Michigan. We also examined 20-months (September 2021 through May 2023) of administrative data from a cannabis company to compare the sale and donation of cannabis products. Ten cannabis-experienced harm reduction clients received cannabis donations, with clinical staff determining client interest and appropriateness, and providing weekly pick-up or delivery. To expand product availability and sustainability, we examined administrative data from a commercialcannabis company that volunteered to provide donations. This administrative data suggests that while flower products constitute most of the adult and medical sales, edible, oil, and topical products predominated donations. Further, cost analysis suggests that donations represent only 1% of total gross sales and account for much less than the expected yearly donation amount. CONCLUSIONS Research suggests there is potential to reduce alcohol and drug use related harms of more dangerous substances through substitution with cannabis. This case study is the first to document cannabis donation as a harm reduction practice in the US and suggests potential for sustainability dependent on state laws. Findings from this case study provide a starting point for inquiry into cannabis donation as a harm reduction strategy in the US; future research is needed to fully understand the individual-level outcomes, public health impacts, necessary legal regulations, and best practices for cannabis donation programs through harm reduction organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Grant Victor
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, 120 Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Pamela Lynch
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, 27709, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Leslie W Suen
- Division of General Internal Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 2540 23rd Street, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bradley Ray
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road, 27709, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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van den Hoek TC, Verhagen IE, de Boer I, Terwindt GM. Substance use in a Dutch migraine cohort compared with the general population. Headache 2024; 64:141-148. [PMID: 38299699 DOI: 10.1111/head.14663] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate self-reported substance user profiles for individuals with migraine and compare these to the general population. BACKGROUND There is increasing attention to lifestyle influences such as substance use as presumed migraine triggers. METHODS Data on substance use were collected by survey in a large migraine cohort and from the biannual survey in the general Dutch population for substances. A representative cohort of Dutch patients with migraine (n = 5176) and the Dutch general population (n = 8370) was included. Patients with migraine were subdivided into episodic (EM) and chronic migraine (CM). Substance consumption was compared between the general population and patients with migraine, and between migraine subgroups after standardization for sex and level of education. RESULTS Included patients with migraine were 83.4% female (4319/5176) and had a mean (standard deviation) age of 44.8 (11.3) years. Patients with migraine reported less illicit drug use (odds ratio [OR] 0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42-0.55; p < 0.001), less current and lifetime smoking (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.55-0.65; p < 0.001 and OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.71-0.79; p < 0.001), and less current alcohol consumption (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.62-0.70; p < 0.001) compared with the general population. Prevalence of substance use was compared between CM and EM participants and showed higher illicit drug use (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.11-2.69; p = 0.011), higher current smoking (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.22-2.11; p < 0.001) but less alcohol use (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.43-0.68; p < 0.001) for participants with CM compared with EM. No differences were found for a history of smoking (OR 1.18, 95% CI 0.92-1.50, p = 0.19). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with migraine are less likely to use illicit drugs, smoke, or drink alcohol compared with the general population. Patients with CM less often consume alcohol, while they more often use illicit drugs and smoke compared to those with EM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iris E Verhagen
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Irene de Boer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Gisela M Terwindt
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Mano-Sousa BJ, Ribeiro LAL, Alves BC, Gonçalves ACA, Silva LM, Duarte-Almeida JM. Bibliometric Analysis of Cannabis sativa Research: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:21-34. [PMID: 38252501 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0200] [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] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The use of medical Cannabis remains unregulated in several countries due to the scarcity of clinical studies with high scientific evidence that establish safety and efficacy of Cannabis products. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze how knowledge has been created in this field, as well as perform a bibliographic mapping to identify knowledge gaps, and investigate key authors and journals that have significantly contributed to advancing our understanding of Cannabis. Method: The study protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Review (CRD42020223084). A systematic search was conducted in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Lilacs, Google Scholar, PubMed, SciELO, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The bibliographic analysis and mapping were registered using the VOSviewer, Sci2tool, CiteSpace, and PoP software. Results: The systematic search identified 27,597 records, with 17,020 duplicates, resulting in a total of 10,577 articles included. The authors who published the most were Marilyn Ann Huestis (n=108) and Sagnik Bhattacharyya (n=71), while Elisaldo A. Carlini and Raphael Mechoulam published 8 and 22 articles, respectively. The journals Drug and Alcohol Dependence (n=297), Psychopharmacology (n=159) and Addictive Behaviors (n=150) were the ones that published the most on Cannabis. The journals suggest that the articles are correlated with the adverse and toxicological effects of recreational Cannabis use; however, most articles focus on medical Cannabis. The peak of publications was in 2021 (n=1,481). The countries that published the most were the United States (n=9,735), while Brazil occupied the 11th position (n=422). Most publications were carried out in "Pharmacology and Pharmacy" (11.31%), followed by "Psychiatry" (7.66%) and "Medicine" (5.80%). The areas of "Neurosciences" (1.59%), "Biochemistry," "Genetics," and "Molecular Biology" (0.79%) were little explored. Conclusion: This study captured the characteristics of publications about Cannabis and clinical studies in the scientific literature, yielding >10,000 articles, representing a large literature review, to date. Therefore, the most productive countries included the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, while the most productive authors were Marilyn Ann Huestis and Sagnik Bhattacharyya, with a peak of publications in 2021. Finally, the most chosen journals were Drug and Alcohol Dependence and Psychopharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brayan Jonas Mano-Sousa
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Bruna Cristina Alves
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Luiza Martins Silva
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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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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Cummings H, Ul Haq MZ, Dargham A, Shakeel N, Busse JW, Darzi AJ, Alvarez E. Individuals' Values and Preferences Regarding Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain: A Descriptive Qualitative Study. J Pain Res 2024; 17:21-34. [PMID: 38192366 PMCID: PMC10771731 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s432823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis for medical purposes has been legal in Canada since 2001; however, physicians receive no formal training in this modality, and clinical use of cannabis remains controversial. This study aims to explore the values and preferences of people living with chronic pain (PLwCP) in using medical cannabis for chronic pain to inform guideline development and shared decision-making in clinical practice. Methods We conducted a descriptive qualitative study using in-depth interviews with PLwCP. Using a deductive/inductive approach, we developed concepts and themes related to values and preferences of PLwCP on their use (or avoidance) of medical cannabis for chronic pain. Results We interviewed 52 PLwCP, including current medical cannabis users (40), previous users (10) and non-users (2). Most PLwCP who used cannabis therapeutically reported the need for experimentation to determine what cannabis products, routes, and doses worked for them. Perceived benefits of medical cannabis among current users included relief from pain, better sleep, and improved mental health. Reasons for discontinuing use of medical cannabis included lack of improvement in pain or sleep or undesirable side effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) dominant products were reported to result in minimal adverse effects (eg, physical or mental impairment) compared to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dominant products. Perceived barriers or facilitators to use included social acceptability, availability or access, cost, and attitudes and knowledge among healthcare providers. Participants noted different routes of cannabis use including oral routes that provided longer-lasting pain relief with a slower onset and inhaled routes with a more rapid onset with shorter-lived effects. Conclusion Participants' decisions to use medical cannabis for chronic pain were varied, which suggests these decisions are likely to be sensitive to individuals' values and preferences. There is a call for further research and information-sharing to help PLwCP understand the complexities of cannabis use for medical purposes, including ideal dosing and timing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanson Cummings
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Moizza Zia Ul Haq
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amne Dargham
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nauman Shakeel
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason W Busse
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Michael G DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea J Darzi
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Alvarez
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Scott JR, Williams DA, Harte SE, Harris RE, Litinas E, Sisley S, Clauw DJ, Boehnke KF. Relationship Between Nociplastic Pain Involvement and Medication Use, Symptom Relief, and Adverse Effects Among People Using Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain. Clin J Pain 2024; 40:1-9. [PMID: 37823303 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000001164] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cannabis is increasingly being used for chronic pain management, but cannabis' effects remain poorly characterized in chronic nociplastic pain (NPP), which is posited to be caused by disturbances in nervous system pain processing. In this cross-sectional study (n=1213), we used the 2011 Fibromyalgia (FM) Survey Criteria as a surrogate measure for degree of NPP among individuals using medical cannabis for chronic pain. METHODS Using a quartile-split, we investigated associations between the degree of NPP and medication use, cannabis use characteristics, and symptom relief. Continuous variables were assessed using one-way analysis of variance and categorical variables with Pearson χ 2 test and binomial logistic regression for calculation of odds ratios. RESULTS Participants were predominately female (59%), with a mean ± SD age of 49.4±13.6 years. Higher FM scores were associated with less self-reported improvement in pain and health since initiating medical cannabis use, as well as more cannabis-related side effects. Paradoxically, higher FM scores were also associated with higher usage of concomitant medication use (including opioids and benzodiazepines) but also with substituting cannabis for significantly more medication classes, including opioids and benzodiazepines. DISCUSSION This article presents evidence that individuals in higher NPP quartiles have higher analgesic intake, higher odds of substituting cannabis for medications, higher side effect burden, and lower therapeutic effect from cannabis. These seemingly contradictory findings may reflect higher symptom burden, polypharmacy at baseline, or that NPP may be challenging to treat with cannabis. Further research is necessary to further explain cannabinoid effects in NPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ryan Scott
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan
| | - David A Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan
| | - Steven E Harte
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan
| | - Richard E Harris
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan
| | | | | | - Daniel J Clauw
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan
| | - Kevin F Boehnke
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan
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12
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Boehnke KF, Wu CL, Clauw DJ. Thoughtfully Integrating Cannabis Products Into Chronic Pain Treatment. Anesth Analg 2024; 138:5-15. [PMID: 38100797 PMCID: PMC10730114 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000005904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis products (CPs) and cannabis-based medicines (CBMs) are becoming increasingly available and are commonly used for pain management. The growing societal acceptance of cannabis and liberalization of cannabis laws allows patients to access CPs with minimal clinical oversight. While there is mechanistic plausibility that CPs and CBMs may be useful for pain management, the clinical trial literature is limited and does not refute or support the use of CBMs for pain management. Complicating matters, a large and growing body of observational literature shows that many people use CPs for pain management and in place of other medications. However, products and dosing regimens in existing trials are not generalizable to the current cannabis market, making it difficult to compare and reconcile these 2 bodies of literature. Given this complexity, clinicians need clear, pragmatic guidance on how to appropriately educate and work with patients who are using CBMs for pain management. In this review, we narratively synthesize the evidence to enable a clear view of current landscape and provide pragmatic advice for clinicians to use when working with patients. This advice revolves around 3 principles: (1) maintaining the therapeutic alliance; (2) harm reduction and benefit maximization; and (3) pragmatism, principles of patient-centered care, and use of best clinical judgment in the face of uncertainty. Despite the lack of certainty CPs and chronic pain management use, we believe that following these principles can make most of the clinical opportunity presented by discussions around CPs and also enhance the likelihood of clinical benefit from CPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin F. Boehnke
- Anesthesiology Department, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Christopher L. Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care; Hospital for Special Surgery; New York, NY, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel J. Clauw
- Anesthesiology Department, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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13
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AminiLari M, Busse JW, Turna J, MacKillop J. Declared Rationale for Cannabis Use Before and After Legalization for Nonmedical Use: A Longitudinal Study of Community Adults in Ontario. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:1133-1139. [PMID: 35333612 DOI: 10.1089/can.2021.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To examine the proportion of individuals using cannabis for medical purposes who reported nonmedical use of cannabis after it became legal to do so. Materials and Methods: We acquired data from the Population Assessment for Tomorrow's Health, the Cannabis Legalization Surveillance Study on a subpopulation of participants residing in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, who reported using cannabis for medical purposes. Specifically, we acquired data 6 months before, and again 6 months after, legalization of cannabis for nonmedical purposes. We constructed a logistic regression model to explore the association between potential explanatory factors and endorsing exclusively nonmedical use after legalization and reported associations as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Our sample included 254 respondents (mean age 33±13; 61% female), of which 208 (82%) reported both medical and nonmedical use of cannabis (dual motives) before legalization for nonmedical purposes, and 46 (18%) reported cannabis use exclusively for medical purposes. Twenty-five percent (n=63) indicated they had medical authorization to use medical cannabis, of which 37 (59%) also endorsed nonmedical use. After legalization of nonmedical cannabis, ∼1 in 4 previously exclusive cannabis users for medical purposes declared dual use (medical and nonmedical), and ∼1 in 4 previously dual users declared exclusively nonmedical use of cannabis. No individual with medical authorization reported a change to exclusively nonmedical use after legalization. Our adjusted regression analysis found that younger age, male sex, and lacking authorization for cannabis use were associated with declaring exclusively nonmedical use of cannabis after legalization. Anxiety, depression, impaired sleep, pain, and headaches were among the most common complaints for which respondents used cannabis therapeutically. Most respondents reported using cannabis as a substitute for prescription medication at least some of the time, and approximately half reported using cannabis as a substitute for alcohol at least some of the time. Conclusions: In a community sample of Canadian adults reporting use of cannabis for medical purposes, legalization of nonmedical cannabis was associated with a substantial proportion changing to either dual use (using cannabis for both medical and nonmedical purposes) or exclusively nonmedical use. Younger men without medical authorization for cannabis use were more likely to declare exclusively nonmedical use after legalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood AminiLari
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- The Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Jason W Busse
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- The Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, and McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University & St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Jasmine Turna
- Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University & St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, McMaster University & St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
| | - James MacKillop
- Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University & St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
- Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, McMaster University & St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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14
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Muzumdar N, Jackson KM, Buckman JF, Spaeth AM, Sokolovsky AW, Pawlak AP, White HR. Dose-dependent Relationships of Same-day and Typical Substance Use to Sleep Duration in College Cannabis and Alcohol Users: A Multilevel Modeling Approach Using Daily Diary Data. CANNABIS (ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) 2023; 6:49-63. [PMID: 38035172 PMCID: PMC10683747 DOI: 10.26828/cannabis/2023/000179] [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: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
This study characterized how quantities of cannabis and alcohol use affect sleep. Single-day and typical cannabis and alcohol use patterns were considered to assess acute-chronic use interactions. Linear and non-linear associations assessed dose-dependence. College students (n=337; 52% female) provided 11,417 days of data, with up to five time points per day. Daily self-reported sleep duration, cannabis use quantity, and alcohol use quantity were subjected to linear mixed modeling to capture linear and curvilinear associations between single-day and typical use on same-night and typical sleep. Sleep duration (difference between bedtime and waketime) was the outcome. Quantity of cannabis used each day andtypical quantity used across all days were predictors in the cannabis models. Parallel single-day and typical alcohol variables were predictors in the alcohol models. Follow-up analyses excluded days with alcohol-cannabis co-use. Main effects of single-day and typical cannabis quantity on sleep duration were observed when all cannabis-use days were modeled. Higher than typical doses of single-day and typical cannabis were associated with longer sleep durations, but only to a point; at the highest doses, cannabis shortened sleep. A main effect of single-day alcohol quantity and two interactions (single-day use with both linear and curvilinear typical use) on sleep duration were observed when all alcohol-use days were modeled. Greater alcohol consumption on a given day led to shorter same-night sleep, but typically heavier drinkers required higher doses than typically lighter drinkers to experience these adverse effects. Follow-up models suggested alcohol co-use may contribute to the purported sleep-promoting effects of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel Muzumdar
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
- Center for Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
| | - Kristina M. Jackson
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, School of Public Health
| | - Jennifer F. Buckman
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
- Center for Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
| | - Andrea M. Spaeth
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
| | | | - Anthony P. Pawlak
- Center for Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
| | - Helene R. White
- Center for Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University – New Brunswick
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15
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Kurtzman ET, Greene J. How Are Patients Who Legally Use Medical Marijuana Treated When Hospitalized? Policy Polit Nurs Pract 2023; 24:225-230. [PMID: 37125427 DOI: 10.1177/15271544231168607] [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] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The majority of U.S. states have legalized marijuana for medical use and some states have legalized marijuana for recreational use; yet, marijuana remains illegal federally. Given the misalignment between state and federal policies, this paper seeks to explore how hospitals handle inpatients' medical marijuana use in states where medical marijuana is legal. To examine this phenomenon, we conducted an anonymous, online, cross-sectional survey of nurse leaders working in acute care inpatient settings in states that had legalized medical marijuana. Using descriptive statistics, we report on these nurse leaders' experiences. There were 811 survey responses-291 who worked in an acute care inpatient setting in a state that had legalized medical marijuana. Among those respondents, only a small percentage reported that inpatients had some access to their medical marijuana: 5.8% reported that the drug was kept in the pharmacy and dispensed like other prescriptions; another 3.4% indicated that patients kept the medical marijuana in their rooms and took it, as needed. Most respondents (55.6%) reported that patients were switched to an alternative medication during their inpatient hospital stays. Almost half (49.4%) of the nurse leaders who reported that alternative medications were used, reported that opioids were substituted, and the majority reported that the marijuana was safer than the opioids. These findings are concerning given the increase in opioid overdose deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen T Kurtzman
- Health Administration, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jessica Greene
- Marxe School of Public and International Affairs, Baruch College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
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16
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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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17
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Hegde V, Bracey DN, Pollet AK, Yazdani-Farsad Y, Dennis DA, Jennings JM. Cannabis Use Does Not Affect Outcomes After Total Hip Arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty 2023; 38:1808-1811. [PMID: 36940759 DOI: 10.1016/j.arth.2023.03.040] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use in patients undergoing arthroplasty has increased with ongoing legalization throughout the United States. The purpose of this study was to report total hip arthroplasty (THA) outcomes in patients self-reporting cannabis use. METHODS There were 74 patients who underwent primary THA from January 2014 to December 2019 at a single institution with minimum 1-year follow-up who had their self-reported cannabis use retrospectively reviewed. Patients who had a history of alcohol or illicit drug abuse were excluded. A match control was conducted based on age; body mass index; sex; Charlson Comorbidity Index; insurance status; and use of nicotine, narcotics, antidepressants, or benzodiazepines to patients undergoing THA who did not self-report cannabis use. Outcomes included Harris Hip Score (HHS), Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Reconstruction (HOOS JR), in hospital morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) consumed, outpatient MMEs prescribed, in hospital lengths of stay (LOS), postoperative complications, and readmissions. RESULTS There was no difference in the preoperative, postoperative, or change in Harris Hip Score or HOOS JR between cohorts. There was also no difference in hospital MMEs consumed (102.4 versus 101, P = .92), outpatient MMEs prescribed (119 versus 156, P = .11) or lengths of stay (1.4 versus 1.5 days, P = .32). Also, readmissions (4 versus 4, P = 1.0) and reoperations (2 versus 1, P = .56) were not different between groups. CONCLUSION Self-reported cannabis use does not influence 1-year outcomes after THA. Further studies are warranted to determine the efficacy and safety of perioperative cannabis use after THA to help guide orthopaedic surgeons in counseling patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Hegde
- Colorado Joint Replacement, Denver, Colorado; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Daniel N Bracey
- Colorado Joint Replacement, Denver, Colorado; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | | | - Douglas A Dennis
- Colorado Joint Replacement, Denver, Colorado; Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado; Department of Orthopaedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
| | - Jason M Jennings
- Colorado Joint Replacement, Denver, Colorado; Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado
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18
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Carnide N, Nadalin V, Mustard C, Severin CN, Furlan AD, Smith PM. Cannabis use among workers with work-related injuries and illnesses: results from a cross-sectional study of workers' compensation claimants in Ontario, Canada. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072994. [PMID: 37463805 PMCID: PMC10357653 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072994] [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] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little is known about how workers use cannabis following a work-related injury/illness, including whether they receive clinical guidance. The objective was to compare characteristics of workers using and not using cannabis after a work-related injury/illness and describe use patterns. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Workers who experienced a work-related physical injury/illness resulting in one or more days of lost time compensated by the workers' compensation authority in Ontario, Canada (n=1196). METHODS Participants were interviewed 18 or 36 months after their injury/illness. Participants were asked about their past-year cannabis use, including whether use was for the treatment of their work-related condition. Sociodemographic, work and health characteristics were compared across cannabis groups: no past-year use; use for the work-related condition; use unrelated to the work-related condition. Cannabis use reasons, patterns, perceived impact and healthcare provider engagement were described. RESULTS In total, 27.4% of the sample reported using cannabis (14.1% for their work-related condition). Workers using cannabis for their condition were less likely to be working (58.0%) and more likely to have quite a bit/extreme pain interference (48.5%), psychological distress (26.0%) and sleep problems most/all the time (62.1%) compared with those not using cannabis (74.3%, 26.3%, 12.0% and 38.0%, respectively) and those using cannabis for other reasons (74.2%, 19.5%, 12.0% and 37.1%, respectively) (all p<0.0001). No significant differences were observed in medical authorisations for use among those using cannabis for their condition (20.4%) or unrelated to their condition (15.7%) (p=0.3021). Healthcare provider guidance was more common among those using cannabis for their condition (32.7%) compared with those using for other reasons (17.1%) (p=0.0024); however, two-thirds of this group did not receive guidance. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis may be used to manage the consequences of work-related injuries/illnesses, yet most do not receive clinical guidance. It is important that healthcare providers speak with injured workers about their cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Carnide
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Cameron Mustard
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Andrea D Furlan
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter M Smith
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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19
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Lake S, Assaf RD, Gorbach PM, Cooper ZD. Changes in secondary substance use after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic among people who use cannabis: Findings from a web-based sample of adults in the United States. Exp Clin Psychopharmacol 2023; 31:482-490. [PMID: 35467920 PMCID: PMC9592680 DOI: 10.1037/pha0000572] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had widespread impacts on mental health and substance use. Increases in cannabis use have been documented in the United States, but little is known about how other substance use has changed among people who use cannabis. We sought to examine changes in alcohol, tobacco, opioid, and stimulant use during COVID-19 and explore how these changes relate to patterns of cannabis use. Data were obtained from a web-based survey of adults in the United States who use cannabis (n = 1,471) administered in September 2020. Using data reported in retrospective (prepandemic) and time-of-survey assessment periods, we explored changes in the prevalence of regular (≥ weekly) alcohol, tobacco, opioid, and stimulant use during COVID-19 among respondents who used medical and nonmedical cannabis. We used modified Poisson regression to examine cannabis-related correlates of increasing or decreasing secondary substance use during the pandemic. There was a slight but significant increase in ≥weekly alcohol use in the medical use group only (41.4%-47.0%, p = .034). ≥ Weekly tobacco, opioid, and stimulant use did not change significantly. Pandemic-concurrent shifts in secondary substance use depended on interacting cannabis-related factors including medical cannabis use, prepandemic cannabis frequency, and pandemic-concurrent frequency changes. For example, ≥ weekly prepandemic cannabis use was significantly and positively associated with decreasing opioid use frequency among the medical cannabis use group only. Assessments of the pandemic's effects on substance use should consider relationships between cannabis and other substances, which may differ according to cannabis-specific behaviors, motives, and contexts of use. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lake
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Ryan D. Assaf
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles
- Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles
- Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Ziva D. Cooper
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
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20
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Raman S, Maclean JC, Bradford WD, Drake C. Recreational cannabis and opioid distribution. HEALTH ECONOMICS 2023; 32:747-754. [PMID: 36653623 DOI: 10.1002/hec.4652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Twenty-one U.S. states have passed recreational cannabis laws as of November 2022. Cannabis may be a substitute for prescription opioids in the treatment of chronic pain. Previous studies have assessed recreational cannabis laws' effects on opioid prescriptions financed by specific private or public payers or dispensed to a unique endpoint. Our study adds to the literature in three important ways: by (1) examining these laws' impacts on prescription opioid dispensing across all payers and endpoints, (2) adjusting for important opioid-related policies such as opioid prescribing limits, and (3) modeling opioids separately by type. We implement two-way fixed-effects regressions and leverage variation from eleven U.S. states that adopted a recreational cannabis law (RCL) between 2010 and 2019. We find that RCLs lead to a reduction in codeine dispensed at retail pharmacies. Among prescription opioids, codeine is particularly likely to be used non-medically. Thus, the finding that RCLs appear to reduce codeine dispensing is potentially promising from a public health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Raman
- Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | | | - W David Bradford
- School of Public and International Affairs, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Coleman Drake
- Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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21
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Kuhathasan N, Ballester PL, Minuzzi L, MacKillop J, Frey BN. Predictors of perceived symptom change with acute cannabis use for mental health conditions in a naturalistic sample: A machine learning approach. Compr Psychiatry 2023; 122:152377. [PMID: 36787672 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152377] [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: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite limited clinical evidence of its efficacy, cannabis use has been commonly reported for the management of various mental health concerns in naturalistic field studies. The aim of the current study was to use machine learning methods to investigate predictors of perceived symptom change across various mental health symptoms with acute cannabis use in a large naturalistic sample. METHODS Data from 68,819 unique observations of cannabis use from 1307 individuals using cannabis to manage mental health symptoms were analyzed. Data were extracted from Strainprint®, a mobile app that allows users to monitor their cannabis use for therapeutic purposes. Machine learning models were employed to predict self-perceived symptom change after cannabis use, and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) value plots were used to assess feature importance of individual predictors in the model. Interaction effects of symptom severity pre-scores of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and gender were also examined. RESULTS The factors that were most strongly associated with perceived symptom change following acute cannabis use were pre-symptom severity, age, gender, and the ratio of CBD to THC. Further examination on the impact of baseline severity for the most commonly reported symptoms revealed distinct responses, with cannabis being reported to more likely benefit individuals with lower pre-symptom severity for depression, and higher pre-symptom severity for insomnia. Responses to cannabis use also differed between genders. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study highlight the importance of several factors in predicting perceived symptom change with acute cannabis use for mental health symptom management. Mental health profiles and baseline symptom severity may play a large role in perceived responses to cannabis. Distinct response patterns were also noted across commonly reported mental health symptoms, emphasizing the need for placebo-controlled cannabis trials for specific user profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirushi Kuhathasan
- Mood Disorders Program and Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - Pedro L Ballester
- Mood Disorders Program and Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - Luciano Minuzzi
- Mood Disorders Program and Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - James MacKillop
- Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, McMaster University/St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada
| | - Benicio N Frey
- Mood Disorders Program and Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON L8N 3K7, Canada.
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22
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Nunez J, Corroon J, Vilke G, Castillo E, Alfaraj DN, Coyne CJ. Perceptions and Practices of Cannabis Use Among Emergency Department Patients. J Emerg Med 2023; 64:543-554. [PMID: 37032203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2023.02.003] [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: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nationally, in states where cannabis has been legalized, increases in cannabis-related hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits have also been observed. OBJECTIVES This study aims to: 1) Describe the sociodemographic characteristics of cannabis users presenting to two academic EDs in California; 2) Assess cannabis-related behaviors; 3) Assess perceptions of cannabis; 4) Identify and describe reasons for cannabis-related ED utilization. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study of patients visiting one of two academic EDs between February 16, 2018 and November 21, 2020. Eligible participants completed a novel questionnaire developed by the authors. Basic descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis of responses. RESULTS The questionnaire was completed by 2577 patients. A quarter were categorized as Current Users (n = 628, 24.4%). Current, Regular Users were evenly divided across gender, were relatively younger (18-34 years, 48.1%), and were largely non-Hispanic Caucasian. Over half of all respondents believed that the use of cannabis was less harmful than tobacco or alcohol use (n = 1537, 59.6%). One in five Current Users (n = 123, 19.8%) reported driving while using cannabis in the past month. A small proportion (n = 24, 3.9%) of Current Users reported ever visiting the ED for a cannabis-related chief complaint. CONCLUSIONS Overall, many ED patients are currently using cannabis; few report utilizing the ED due to cannabis-related problems. Current, Irregular Users may represent the ideal target group for ED-based educational efforts aimed at improving knowledge of safe cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Nunez
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Jamie Corroon
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California; Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - Gary Vilke
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Edward Castillo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Dunya N Alfaraj
- King Fahd Hospital, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Al Khobar, Eastern, Saudi Arabia
| | - Christopher J Coyne
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
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Emerging Roles of Endocannabinoids as Key Lipid Mediators for a Successful Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065220. [PMID: 36982295 PMCID: PMC10048990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, Cannabis use/misuse for treating pregnancy-related symptoms and other chronic conditions has increased among pregnant women, favored by decriminalization and/or legalization of its recreational uses in addition to its easy accessibility. However, there is evidence that prenatal Cannabis exposure might have adverse consequences on pregnancy progression and a deleterious impact on proper neurodevelopmental trajectories in the offspring. Maternal Cannabis use could interfere with the complex and finely controlled role performed by the endocannabinoid system in reproductive physiology, impairing multiple gestational processes from blastocyst implantation to parturition, with long-lasting intergenerational effects. In this review, we discuss current clinical and preclinical evidence regarding the role of endocannabinoids in development, function, and immunity of the maternal–fetal interface, focusing on the impact of Cannabis constituents on each of these gestational processes. We also discuss the intrinsic limitations of the available studies and the future perspectives in this challenging research field.
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Wolfe D, Corace K, Butler C, Rice D, Skidmore B, Patel Y, Thayaparan P, Michaud A, Hamel C, Smith A, Garber G, Porath A, Conn D, Willows M, Abramovici H, Thavorn K, Kanji S, Hutton B. Impacts of medical and non-medical cannabis on the health of older adults: Findings from a scoping review of the literature. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281826. [PMID: 36800328 PMCID: PMC9937508 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis legalization has enabled increased consumption in older adults. Age-related mental, physical, and physiological changes may lead to differences in effects of cannabis in older adults compared to younger individuals. OBJECTIVE To perform a scoping review to map the evidence regarding the health effects of cannabis use for medical and non-medical purposes in older adults. METHODS Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library) were searched for systematic reviews (SRs), randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized/observational studies (NRSs) assessing the health effects and associations of cannabis use (medical or non-medical) in adults ≥ 50 years of age. Included studies met age-related inclusion criteria or involved a priori identified health conditions common among older adults. Records were screened using a liberal accelerated approach and data charting was performed independently by two reviewers. Descriptive summaries, structured tables, effect direction plots and bubble plots were used to synthesize study findings. FINDINGS From 31,393 citations, 133 publications describing 134 unique studies (26 SRs, 36 RCTs, 72 NRSs) were included. Medical cannabis had inconsistent therapeutic effects in specific patient conditions (e.g., end-stage cancer, dementia), with a number of studies suggesting possible benefits while others found no benefit. For medical cannabis, harmful associations outnumbered beneficial, and RCTs reported more negative effects than NRSs. Cannabis use was associated with greater frequencies of depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, substance use and problematic substance use, accidents/injuries, and acute healthcare use. Studies often were small, did not consistently assess harms, and did not adjust for confounding. DISCUSSION The effects of medical cannabis are inconsistent within specific patient conditions. For older adults, generally, the available evidence suggests cannabis use may be associated with greater frequencies of mental health issues, substance use, and acute healthcare use, and the benefit-to-risk ratio is unclear. Studies with a balanced assessment of benefits and harms may guide appropriate public health messaging to balance the marketing pressures of cannabis to older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianna Wolfe
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Kim Corace
- Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alan Michaud
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Andra Smith
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Gary Garber
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Amy Porath
- Canadian Center for Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David Conn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Melanie Willows
- Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hanan Abramovici
- Health Canada, Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Kednapa Thavorn
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Salmaan Kanji
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Brian Hutton
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Clarke H, Fitzcharles M. The evolving culture of medical cannabis in Canada for the management of chronic pain. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1153584. [PMID: 37089954 PMCID: PMC10119390 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1153584] [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: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Although used therapeutically for millennia, cannabis has been a prohibited substance worldwide for most of the 20th Century. With revision of prohibitive regulations in many jurisdictions during the past 2 decades, cannabis is increasingly available to patients as a potential treatment option for various symptoms. Pain relief, sleep promotion and alleviation of distress, depression and anxiety are the most common reasons for cannabis use. Canada has been at the forefront of medical cannabis (MC) legislation revisions to enable and facilitate access for therapeutic use. Although initially viewed with caution and stigma, attitudes to cannabis in general have changed. Medical cannabis is identified as the herbal plant product sourced from a grower/producer and is not at present a regulated pharmaceutical product. Medical cannabis use is currently prevalent in Canada but has bypassed the rigorous study required for usual drug approval. Although uptake has been enthusiastic by patients, the medical community has voiced cautions and concerns. Access to medical cannabis is fairly easy once an approval document is obtained from a healthcare professional, but without obligation for medical or pharmacy oversight. The greatest concern is a dearth of sound clinical evidence for effects and harms. Emerging concerns include prevalent patient self-management with information based on personal research, an abundance of on-line information which may not always be accurate, the emergence of designated "cannabis clinics," potential risks to society due to accidents, and high cost of the legal medical product leading to access via the recreational market. With cannabis now entrenched in Canadian healthcare, physicians must be sufficiently knowledgeable to provide guidance that is evidence-based and will ensure personal and societal harm reduction. Examination of the changing culture of medical cannabis in Canada will provide insight for countries that may be anticipating similar revisions of cannabis regulations to allow cannabis access for their patient population and learn from the issues created by recreational legalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Clarke
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management Pain Research Unit, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Transitional Pain Service, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - M. Fitzcharles
- Department of Rheumatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: M. Fitzcharles,
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Holman A, Kruger DJ, Lucas P, Ong K, Bergmans RS, Boehnke KF. Healthcare provider and medical cannabis patient communication regarding referral and medication substitution: the Canadian context. J Cannabis Res 2022; 4:32. [PMID: 35698183 PMCID: PMC9195481 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-022-00141-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients use medical cannabis for a wide array of illnesses and symptoms, and many substitute cannabis for pharmaceuticals. This substitution often occurs without physician oversight, raising patient safety concerns. We aimed to characterize substitution and doctor-patient communication patterns in Canada, where there is a mature market and national regulatory system for medical cannabis. Methods We conducted an anonymous, cross-sectional online survey in May 2021 for seven days with adult Canadian federally-authorized medical cannabis patients (N = 2697) registered with two global cannabis companies to evaluate patient perceptions of Primary Care Provider (PCP) knowledge of medical cannabis and communication regarding medical cannabis with PCPs, including PCP authorization of licensure and substitution of cannabis for other medications. Results Most participants (62.7%, n = 1390) obtained medical cannabis authorization from their PCP. Of those who spoke with their PCP about medical cannabis (82.2%, n = 2217), 38.6% (n = 857) reported that their PCP had “very good” or “excellent” knowledge of medical cannabis and, on average, were moderately confident in their PCP’s ability to integrate medical cannabis into treatment. Participants generally reported higher ratings for secondary care providers, with 82.8% (n = 808) of participants rating their secondary care provider’s knowledge about medical cannabis as “very good” or “excellent.” Overall, 47.1% (n = 1269) of participants reported substituting cannabis for pharmaceuticals or other substances (e.g., alcohol, tobacco/nicotine). Of these, 31.3% (n = 397) reported a delay in informing their PCP of up to 6 months or more, and 34.8% (n = 441) reported that their PCP was still not aware of their substitution. Older, female participants had higher odds of disclosing cannabis substitution to their PCPs. Conclusion Most of the surveyed Canadian medical cannabis patients considered their PCPs knowledgeable about cannabis and were confident in their PCPs’ ability to integrate cannabis into treatment plans. However, many surveyed patients substituted cannabis for other medications without consulting their PCPs. These results suggest a lack of integration between mainstream healthcare and medical cannabis that may be improved through physician education and clinical experience. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42238-022-00141-0.
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27
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Carlini BH, Schauer GL. Cannabis-only use in the USA: prevalence, demographics, use patterns, and health indicators. J Cannabis Res 2022; 4:39. [PMID: 35864553 PMCID: PMC9306107 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-022-00143-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of adults who consume cannabis while abstaining from other substances is not known in the USA. This study used nationally representative data to estimate the prevalence and explore the demographic characteristics, cannabis use behaviors, and self-reported health of US adults with past 30-day cannabis-only use, as compared with adults who used cannabis as well as other substances. Methods Data came from adults 18 years and older who responded to the 2017 or 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health and reported past 30-day cannabis use (n = 12,143). Cannabis-only use was defined as past 30-day cannabis use with no past 30-day use of other substances (alcohol, tobacco, other illicit substances, non-prescribed controlled medications). Weighted frequencies and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed for all sociodemographic and cannabis-related variables, overall, and across the two categories of cannabis consumers, stratified by age. Results The prevalence of past 30-day cannabis-only use among US adults was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.8, 1.0) and varied by age (2.0% of 18–25 years old; 0.7% of 26–49 year olds, and 0.6% of those ≥ 50 years). Among adults with any past 30-day cannabis use, 8.4% (95% CI: 7.6, 9.2; n = 980) reported cannabis-only use. Age was significantly associated with past 30-day cannabis-only use, with adults 18–25 years and 26–49 years having higher odds of cannabis-only use compared with older adults. Past year cannabis dependence was lowest among cannabis-only consumers aged ≥ 50 years (0.2%; 95% CI: 0.1, 0.5) and highest among young adult cannabis and other substance consumers (16.7%; 95% CI: 15.3, 18.2). Past year prevalence of any mental illness was generally similar across cannabis use groups and by age. Conclusions The prevalence of adult cannabis-only use in the US is low — most cannabis consumers report using other substances in the past 30 days as well. While cannabis-only use among older adults is rare, it does not appear to be accompanied by a high prevalence of dependence. These findings should guide future research and policymaking.
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DiGuiseppi GT, Fedorova EV, Lankenau SE, Davis JP, Wong CF. Egocentric Network Characteristics and Cannabis Use in a Sample of Young Adult Medical Cannabis Patients and Nonpatient Users. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2022; 83:802-811. [PMID: 36484577 PMCID: PMC9756408 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.21-00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Social factors play an important role in young adults' substance use behaviors, but little is known about how egocentric social network factors are related to young adults' cannabis use. Young adults also report medicinal and recreational uses of cannabis, which may alter the strength of these relationships. Therefore, medical cannabis patient status and medicinal/recreational orientation toward cannabis were examined as moderators of these relationships. METHOD Young adult medical cannabis patients (n = 182) and nonpatient users (n = 157) were surveyed in Los Angeles in 2015-2016 about their cannabis use, orientation (medicinal and/or recreational), and egocentric networks (cannabis use network size, social support network size, descriptive and injunctive norms). Regression models examined associations between network characteristics and past-90-day use and problematic use, and tested interactions between network characteristics and both patient status and cannabis use orientation. RESULTS Only descriptive norms (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] = 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.06, 1.33]) were associated with more frequent use, but not problematic use. Descriptive norms interacted with cannabis use orientation: descriptive norms were positively associated with cannabis use days among medicinally oriented users (aIRR = 1.22, 95% CI [1.02, 1.46]). However, this relationship was stronger for recreationally oriented users (aIRR = 1.62, 95% CI [1.31, 2.01]). No interactions were found predicting problematic use. CONCLUSIONS Descriptive cannabis use norms among one's personal network members are an important variable predicting young adults' cannabis use, but not problematic use. Perceived descriptive norms may be a stronger motivator to use for recreational users than medicinal users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham T. DiGuiseppi
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ekaterina V. Fedorova
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Stephen E. Lankenau
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jordan P. Davis
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Carolyn F. Wong
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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Bindler RJ, Watson CJW, Lyons AJ, Skeiky L, Lewis J, McDonell M, Lazarus P, Wilson M. Drug-Drug Interaction Between Orally Administered Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen and Inhalation of Cannabis Smoke: A Case Report. Hosp Pharm 2022; 57:518-525. [PMID: 35898257 PMCID: PMC9310317 DOI: 10.1177/00185787211061374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Objective To determine if a 2-day protocol measuring pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics can demonstrate drug-drug interactions when smoked cannabis is added to orally administered hydrocodone/acetaminophen combination products. Case Summary A 51-year-old non-Hispanic white male with chronic pain diagnoses participated in a 2-day pilot protocol. The participant attended two 7-hour in-lab days where he received 10 blood draws each day and completed self-administered pain and anxiety surveys. For both days, the participant took his prescribed dose of hydrocodone/acetaminophen (1/2 tablet of 7.5 mg/325 mg combination product) with the addition of 1 smoked pre-rolled marijuana cigarette (labeled as 0.5 g; 22.17% Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol; 0.12% cannabidiol) on Day 2. Blood specimens were analyzed using mass spectrometry to quantify the difference of plasma hydrocodone levels between Day 1 and Day 2. Results Compared to Day 1, lower levels of pain and anxiety were reported during Day 2 with the addition of cannabis to oral hydrocodone/acetaminophen. Day 2 pharmacokinetic analysis also revealed more rapid absorption and overall lower levels of hydrocodone in plasma. Discussion Lower hydrocodone plasma levels in Day 2 may indicate cannabis's effect on metabolism and reduce the risk of opioid toxicity. The quicker absorption rate of hydrocodone could explain lower pain and anxiety scores reported on the second day. Conclusion and Relevance A 2-day protocol was able to capture differences across time in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic measurements. Larger studies can be designed to better characterize the potential drug-drug interaction of cannabis and opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jamie Lewis
- Northwest Spine and Pain Medicine, Spokane, WA, USA
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30
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Schlag AK, Lynskey M, Fayaz A, Athanasiou-Fragkouli A, Brandner B, Haja B, Iveson E, Nutt DJ. Characteristics of People Seeking Prescribed Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Chronic Pain: Evidence From Project Twenty 21. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:891498. [PMID: 35775024 PMCID: PMC9237624 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.891498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prescribed cannabinoids are now legal in the UK and increasingly being used for a variety of conditions, with one of the most frequent conditions being chronic pain. This paper describes the characteristics of individuals seeking prescribed cannabinoids for the treatment of chronic pain in Project Twenty 21, a UK based real world data registry of prescribed cannabis patients. Method By 1st November 2021 data were available for 1,782 people who had sought treatment with medical cannabis as part of Project Twenty 21. The most common diagnosis among this cohort was chronic pain with 949 (53.5%) of the cohort reporting a primary condition related to chronic pain. Medical and self-report data on the characteristics of these patients, their health status and type/s of cannabinoid/s prescribed are summarized in this report. Results Of the 949 people reporting chronic pain as a primary condition 54.7% were male and their average age was 42.0 years (range = 18-84). Patients reported a low quality of life and high levels of comorbidity: people reported an average of 4.6 comorbid conditions with the most common comorbid conditions including anxiety, depression, insomnia and stress. A range of cannabinoid products were prescribed with the most common products being classified as high THC flower (48.5%). The majority of patients also reported using at least one other prescribed medication (68.7%). Conclusions Consistent with findings in other national and international databases, chronic pain was the most common primary condition in this real world study of prescribed cannabinoids. There was considerable variation in the types of chronic pain, comorbid pathology and in the characteristics of products being prescribed to treat these conditions. Together, this evidence supports the utility of real world evidence, as opposed to clinical trial approaches to studying the potential benefits of prescribed cannabinoids in treating chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Katrin Schlag
- Drug Science, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Alan Fayaz
- Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine, University College London Hospital National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Brigitta Brandner
- Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine, University College London Hospital National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Elizabeth Iveson
- Stroke and Neurorehabilitation, Nuffield Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - David J. Nutt
- Drug Science, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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The Role of Cannabis, Cannabidiol and Other Cannabinoids in Chronic Pain. The Perspective of Physicians. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2022; 17:318-333. [PMID: 34467511 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-021-10010-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is a renewed interest in treatments with medical cannabis and cannabinoids. Based on an increasing number of publications over the last decades that permitted new insights into mechanisms, efficacy and safety of cannabinoids, the use of cannabinergic medications is authorised in an increasing number of European and non-European countries. The alleviation of chronic, painful conditions is, since thousands of years, one of the primary reasons for the use of cannabis. Depending on the country, a wide range of medicinal cannabis preparations are available:ranging from defined cultivars of medical cannabis, mainly varying in their THC:CBD ratio, that are inhaled or taken as whole plant extracts,to highly purified single cannabinoids, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD),or mixtures of two enriched extracts, standardised to a 1:1 ratio of THC:CBD (nabiximols). Although conflicting opinions continue to exist, the majority of reviews in the past concluded that medical cannabis and cannabinoids play a significant role in the management of pain. Surprisingly, systematic studies to date do not support an "entourage effect" of the other plant constituents of cannabis (mainly terpenoids) in treatment of chronic pain. An emerging cannabinoid is CBD which is the only cannabinergic medication available at present that does not cause the typical "cannabis high"; it is not a "controlled substance". However, despite years of research, there is either no study or no well-conducted, head-to-head, comparison available between different cannabis cultivars, between pure cannabinoids, and between pure cannabinoids and extracts. It remains unanswered which is the optimal treatment approach.
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Charoenporn V, Charernboon T, Mackie CJ. Medical Cannabis as a Substitute for Prescription Agents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2070870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Veevarin Charoenporn
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand
- National Addictions Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Thammanard Charernboon
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Applied Epidemiology, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Clare J Mackie
- National Addictions Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
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Minhas M, Lunn SE. Letter to the Editor: The Need for Equitable Health Care Among Medical Cannabis Patients in Canada. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:719-721. [PMID: 35532992 PMCID: PMC9587788 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meenu Minhas
- Department of Medical Affairs, Aurora Cannabis Inc., Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stephanie E Lunn
- Department of Medical Affairs, Aurora Cannabis Inc., Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Laudanski K, Wain J. Considerations for Cannabinoids in Perioperative Care by Anesthesiologists. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030558. [PMID: 35160010 PMCID: PMC8836924 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased usage of recreational and medically indicated cannabinoid compounds has been an undeniable reality for anesthesiologists in recent years. These compounds’ complicated pharmacology, composition, and biological effects result in challenging issues for anesthesiologists during different phases of perioperative care. Here, we review the existing formulation of cannabinoids and their biological activity to put them into the context of the anesthesia plan execution. Perioperative considerations should include a way to gauge the patient’s intake of cannabinoids, the ability to gain consent properly, and vigilance to the increased risk of pulmonary and airway problems. Intraoperative management in individuals with cannabinoid use is complicated by the effects cannabinoids have on general anesthetics and depth of anesthesia monitoring while simultaneously increasing the potential occurrence of intraoperative hemodynamic instability. Postoperative planning should involve higher vigilance to the risk of postoperative strokes and acute coronary syndromes. However, most of the data are not up to date, rending definite conclusions on the importance of perioperative cannabinoid intake on anesthesia management difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Laudanski
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence: (K.L.); (J.W.)
| | - Justin Wain
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA
- Correspondence: (K.L.); (J.W.)
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Wadsworth E, Hines LA, Hammond D. Legal status of recreational cannabis and self-reported substitution of cannabis for opioids or prescription pain medication in Canada and the United States. Subst Abus 2022; 43:943-948. [PMID: 35420977 PMCID: PMC7614954 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2022.2060431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Aims: With increased liberalization of cannabis policies in North America, there is growing interest in the use of cannabis to manage pain instead of opioids. The objectives of the study were to (1) examine the use of cannabis for pain relief in Canada and the United States (US) in 2018 and 2019; (2) examine the association between recreational cannabis laws and changes in the use of cannabis for pain relief, instead of opioids or prescription pain medication. Methods: Repeat cross-sectional survey data were used from Wave 1 and Wave 2 of the International Cannabis Policy Study conducted in 2018 and 2019 in Canada and the US. Respondents were recruited through commercial panels, aged 16-65, and had ever tried cannabis (N = 44,119). Weighted binary logistic regression models examined the association between the legal status of recreational cannabis and cannabis use for pain relief instead of opioids or prescription pain medication (n = 15,092). Results: Between 14-33% of cannabis consumers in Canada and the US reported using cannabis to manage headaches or pain. Of these consumers, 79% and 78% respondents in Canada; 80% and 83% in US illegal states; and 83% and 84% in US legal states, in 2018 and 2019, respectively, reported cannabis use for pain relief instead of opioids or prescription pain medication. There was little evidence of an association between the legal status of recreational cannabis and cannabis use for pain relief instead of opioids or prescription pain medication, among Canadian (AOR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.78, 1.22) and US respondents (AOR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.96, 1.28). Conclusions: Although substitution of cannabis for opioids or prescription pain medication is common among those who use cannabis for pain, there does not seem to be a significant difference according to cannabis legality. Future research should examine cannabis and opioid substitution using different research designs and time frames.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elle Wadsworth
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Lindsey A Hines
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
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Kalaba M, Eglit GML, Feldner MT, Washer PD, Ernenwein T, Vickery AW, Ware MA. Longitudinal Relationship between the Introduction of Medicinal Cannabis and Polypharmacy: An Australian Real-World Evidence Study. Int J Clin Pract 2022; 2022:8535207. [PMID: 36448002 PMCID: PMC9663249 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8535207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies recommend medicinal cannabis (MC) as a potential treatment for chronic pain (CP) when conventional therapies are not successful; however, data from Australia is limited. This real-world evidence study explored how the introduction of MC related to concomitant medication use over time. Long-term safety also was examined. METHODS Data were collected by the Emerald Clinics (a network of seven clinics located across Australia) as part of routine practice from Jan 2020 toJan 2021. Medications were classified by group: antidepressants, benzodiazepines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and total number of medications. Adverse events (AEs) were collected at each visit and subsequently coded using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities version 23 into the system organ class (SOC) and preferred term (PT). A total of 535 patients were analyzed. RESULTS The most common daily oral dose was 10 mg for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 15 mg for cannabidiol (CBD). With the introduction of MC, patients' total number of medications consumed decreased over the course of one year; significant reductions in NSAIDs, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants were observed (p < .001). However, the number of prescribed opioid medications did not differ from baseline to the end of one year (p = .49). Only 6% of patients discontinued MC treatment during the study. A total of 600 AEs were reported in 310 patients during the reporting period and 97% of them were classified as nonserious. Discussion. Though observational in nature, these findings suggest MC is generally well-tolerated, consistent with the previous literature, and may reduce concomitant use of some medications. Due to study limitations, concomitant medication reductions cannot be causally attributed to MC. Nevertheless, these data underscore early signals that warrant further exploration in randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Kalaba
- Canopy Growth Corporation, 1 Hershey Drive, Smiths Falls, ON K7A 3K8, Canada
| | - Graham M. L. Eglit
- Canopy Growth Corporation, 1 Hershey Drive, Smiths Falls, ON K7A 3K8, Canada
| | - Matthew T. Feldner
- Canopy Growth Corporation, 1 Hershey Drive, Smiths Falls, ON K7A 3K8, Canada
| | - Patrizia D. Washer
- Emyria Limited, D2 661 Newcastle Street, Leederville WA 6007, PO Box 1442, West Leederville, WA 6901, Australia
| | - Tracie Ernenwein
- Emyria Limited, D2 661 Newcastle Street, Leederville WA 6007, PO Box 1442, West Leederville, WA 6901, Australia
| | - Alistair W. Vickery
- Emyria Limited, D2 661 Newcastle Street, Leederville WA 6007, PO Box 1442, West Leederville, WA 6901, Australia
| | - Mark A. Ware
- Canopy Growth Corporation, 1 Hershey Drive, Smiths Falls, ON K7A 3K8, Canada
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Hirschtritt ME, Avalos LA, Sarovar V, Ridout KK, Goler NC, Ansley DR, Satre DD, Young-Wolff KC. Association Between Prenatal Cannabis Use and Psychotropic Medication Use in Pregnant Patients With Depression and Anxiety. J Addict Med 2022; 16:e269-e273. [PMID: 35020701 PMCID: PMC9271523 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This cross-sectional study examined associations between prenatal cannabis use and prescribed psychotropic medication use among pregnant patients with depression or anxiety in a large, integrated healthcare system. METHODS Study patients had a confirmed pregnancy and a depressive or anxiety disorder defined by International Classification of Diseases codes between 2012 and 2018 at Kaiser Permanente Northern California. Patients were screened for prenatal substance use via a self-reported questionnaire and urine toxicology test as part of standard prenatal care. Generalized estimating equation models tested for associations between prenatal cannabis use and any dispensation of antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and hypnotics during gestation. Models were stratified by diagnosis (depression or anxiety) and depression symptom severity. RESULTS This study included 35,047 pregnancies (32,278 patients; 17.6% aged <25 years, 48.1% non-Hispanic White). Adjusting for patient age, income, race/ethnicity, and depression symptom severity, the 12.6% of patients who screened positive for prenatal cannabis use demonstrated higher odds of prenatal benzodiazepine (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] = 1.40; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20-1.62) and hypnotic (aOR = 1.28; 95% CI = 1.11-1.48), but not antidepressants (aOR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.96-1.14) use. This pattern persisted when diagnostic groups were examined separately. The odds of prenatal benzodiazepine and hypnotic use associated with prenatal cannabis use were higher among pregnancies with severe depression symptom severity (31.8% of the sample). CONCLUSIONS Among pregnant patients with depression or anxiety, prenatal cannabis use was associated with higher odds of prenatal benzodiazepine and hypnotic use. As patients may be using cannabis to address depression and anxiety, prescribers should remain vigilant for under- or untreated psychiatric symptoms among pregnant patients and provide evidence-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E. Hirschtritt
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA,Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco; San Francisco, CA, USA,The Permanente Medical Group; Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Lyndsay A. Avalos
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Varada Sarovar
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Kathryn K. Ridout
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA,The Permanente Medical Group; Santa Rosa, CA, USA
| | - Nancy C. Goler
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Deborah R. Ansley
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Derek D. Satre
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA,Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco; San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kelly C. Young-Wolff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California; Oakland, CA, USA,Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco; San Francisco, CA, USA
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Aebischer JH, Dieckmann NF, Jones KD, St John AW. Chronic Pain Clinical and Prescriptive Practices in the Cannabis Era. Pain Manag Nurs 2021; 23:109-121. [PMID: 34973920 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore how health care providers in the United States are adapting clinical recommendations and prescriptive practices in response to patient use of medical cannabis (MC) for chronic pain symptoms. DESIGN Literature searches queried MeSH/Subject terms "chronic pain," "clinician," "cannabis," and Boolean text words "practice" and "analgesics" in EBSCOHost, EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus, published 2010-2021 in the United States. Twenty-one primary, peer-reviewed studies met criteria. METHODS Studies are synthesized under major headings: recommending MC for chronic pain; MC and prescription opioids; and harm reduction of MC. RESULTS MC is increasingly utilized by patients for chronic pain symptoms. Clinical recommendations for or against MC are influenced by scopes of practice, state or federal laws, institutional policies, education, potential patient harm (or indirect harm of others), and perceived confidence. Epidemiologic and cohort studies show downward trajectories of opioid prescribing and consumption in states with legal cannabis. However, clinicians' recommendations and prescription practices are nonuniform. Impacts of cannabis laws are clear between nongovernmental and governmental institutions. Strategies addressing MC and opioid use include frequent visits, and, to reduce harm, suggesting alternative therapies and treating substance use disorders. CONCLUSIONS MC use for chronic pain is increasing with cannabis legalization. Provider practices are heterogenous, demonstrating a balance of treating chronic pain using available evidence, while being aware of potential harms associated with MC and opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nathan F Dieckmann
- Oregon Health & Science University, School of Nursing, Portland, OR; Oregon Health & Science University & Portland State University, School of Public Health, Core Faculty, Portland, OR; Oregon Health & Science University, School of Medicine, Division of Psychology & Psychiatry, Portland, OR
| | - Kim D Jones
- Linfield University, School of Nursing, Portland, OR
| | - Amanda W St John
- Oregon Health & Science University, School of Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Portland, OR
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Tumati S, Lanctôt KL, Wang R, Li A, Davis A, Herrmann N. Medical Cannabis Use Among Older Adults in Canada: Self-Reported Data on Types and Amount Used, and Perceived Effects. Drugs Aging 2021; 39:153-163. [PMID: 34940961 PMCID: PMC8696251 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-021-00913-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Medical cannabis use is growing among older adults. In this retrospective study, we aimed to assess the characteristics of older medical cannabis users including the indications, type and amount of cannabis used, perceived changes in symptoms after cannabis use, change in dose of concurrent medications, and adverse effects. Methods Data were collected between October 2014 and October 2020 from patients who were consulting the Canada-wide network of clinics of a medical cannabis provider and who were willing to answer questionnaires based on their medical status. The current study included older adults (≥ 65 years) who completed questionnaires at intake and first follow-up visits. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics, which were compared between men and women with t tests or chi-squared tests. Tests of proportions assessed categorical responses for perceived effects after cannabis use. Logistic regression was used to assess trends in cannabis usage. Results Data included that from 9766 older adult users at intake (mean ± SD age = 73.2 ± 6.8 years, females = 60.0%), among whom 4673 (females = 61.4%) returned for follow-up after 90.6 ± 58 days. The most common primary indication for which medical cannabis was sought was pain (67.7%), which was more common in women, whereas oncological and neurological conditions were more common in men. At follow-up, cannabis oil was used by 81.0% of older adults, among whom compositions containing only or mostly cannabidiol (CBD) had been used by 83.6%. Adverse effects reported by older adults at the follow-up visit included dry mouth (12.8%), drowsiness (8.6%), and dizziness (4.0%). The majority of older adults reported improvements in pain (72.7%, z = 1482.6, p < 0.0001, compared to worsening or no change), sleep (64.5%, z = 549.4, p < 0.0001), and mood (52.8%, z = 16.4, p < 0.0001), with 35.6% reporting use of a reduced dose of opioids and 19.9% a reduced dose of benzodiazepines. Interpretation Among older adults, medical cannabis is used more often by women, with CBD-containing cannabis oils being the most commonly used. Users reported improved pain, sleep, and mood symptoms at follow-up after cannabis use. This study describes the patterns of use of medical cannabis by older adults and highlights the need for research to determine appropriate indications, precise doses of active ingredients, and short- and long-term outcomes among older adults. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40266-021-00913-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shankar Tumati
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Krista L Lanctôt
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - RuoDing Wang
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Abby Li
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew Davis
- Department of Economics, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
| | - Nathan Herrmann
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Bonomo Y, Norman A, Collins L, O'Neill H, Galettis P, Trinca J, Strauss N, Martin J, Castle D. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of a Medicinal Cannabis Formulation in Patients with Chronic Non-cancer Pain on Long-Term High Dose Opioid Analgesia: A Pilot Study. Pain Ther 2021; 11:171-189. [PMID: 34921662 PMCID: PMC8861237 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-021-00344-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This phase I open-label study examined pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of escalating doses of a novel combination cannabinoid medication (1:1 tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]/cannabidiol [CBD]) in patients with chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) on high dose opioid analgesia. METHODS Nine people with CNCP and oral morphine equivalent daily dose of 60 mg or higher were recruited. Blood concentrations of THC, 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinol (OH-THC), 11-nor-9-carboxy-tetrahydrocannabinol (COOH-THC), and CBD were assayed weekly. Concentrations were measured after a single dose of 2.5 mg THC/2.5 mg CBD on day 1, and daily escalating doses up to a single dose of 12.5 mg THC/12.5 mg CBD on day 29. Follow-up was on day 36 after a 7-day washout. Secondary outcome data encompassed pain, mood, and sleep parameters. RESULTS The parent compounds THC, and CBD, and metabolites OH-THC and COOH-THC were detected at most time points. In general, the concentration of all analytes increased until 2 h post-administration, decreasing to approximately pre-dose concentrations by 8 h. There was considerable inter- and intra-individual variability. The study medication was well tolerated. Eight participants reported at least one adverse event (AE), with a total of 62 AEs; most common were euphoric mood, headache, and agitation, none classified as severe. There was no significant change to pain severity self-ratings, nor use of pain medications. Improvements in pain interference scores, mood, and some sleep parameters were observed. CONCLUSION The THC/CBD formulation was tolerated well in a group of patients with CNCP. Between-participant variability supports personalized dosing and "start low-go slow" titration. To validate and quantify improvements in secondary efficacy outcomes a randomized placebo-controlled study is needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Register (CT-2019-CTN-01224-1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Bonomo
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, University of Melbourne, P.O. Box 2900, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia.
| | - Amanda Norman
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, P.O. Box 2900, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Lisa Collins
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, P.O. Box 2900, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Helen O'Neill
- Department of Addiction Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, P.O. Box 2900, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Peter Galettis
- Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Jane Trinca
- Barbara Walker Centre for Pain Management, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, P.O. Box 2900, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Nigel Strauss
- Millswyn Clinic, 466 Punt Road, South Yarra, VIC, 3141, Australia
| | - Jennifer Martin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - David Castle
- Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, University of Melbourne, P.O. Box 2900, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
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41
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Anderson Goodell EM, Nordeck C, Finan PH, Vandrey R, Dunn KE, Thrul J. Feasibility and acceptability of using smartphone-based EMA to assess patterns of prescription opioid and medical cannabis use among individuals with chronic pain. Internet Interv 2021; 26:100460. [PMID: 34646751 PMCID: PMC8501678 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2021.100460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intensive longitudinal studies are needed to examine the co-use of prescription opioid medication and medical cannabis and their effects on chronic pain. The current study sought to investigate the feasibility and participant compliance with a smartphone-based Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) data collection protocol among individuals who use multiple substances and suffer from chronic pain. METHODS A total of 46 participants (mean age = 44.8 years; 78% female; 85% Non-Hispanic White) were recruited online and completed a 30-day EMA phase where they responded to prompted surveys (four random past-hour surveys and one daily diary per day) about opioid medication use, medical cannabis use, and pain symptoms. Qualitative follow-up interviews were conducted with a subset of 10 participants. Linear and logistic regression models were used to examine baseline participant characteristics in relation to EMA compliance. Qualitative indicators of participant study experience were extracted from interviews. RESULTS Participants responded to an average of 70% of past-hour surveys and 92% of daily diaries. Female participants were more likely to complete all daily diaries and at least one past-hour survey per day on all 30 days, respectively (OR = 5.60, 95% CI: 1.02-30.77, p < .05; OR = 7.08, 95% CI: 1.28-39.16, p < .05). Female participants were also more likely to complete at least 75% of their prompted past-hour surveys (OR = 4.67, 95% CI: 1.00-21.69, p < .05). Interview participants reported a positive study experience overall, although some mentioned problems related to smartphone notifications, redundant questions, or being prompted when they were not feeling well. Participants also mentioned problems with reporting the amount of medical cannabis used (e.g., milliliters of vaping liquid). CONCLUSIONS Study results demonstrate both feasibility and acceptability of using EMA methodology to examine use patterns of medical cannabis and prescription opioid medication among individuals with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M. Anderson Goodell
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Courtney Nordeck
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Patrick H. Finan
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelly E. Dunn
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Johannes Thrul
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Sexton M, Garcia JM, Jatoi A, Clark CS, Wallace MS. The Management of Cancer Symptoms and Treatment-Induced Side Effects With Cannabis or Cannabinoids. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr 2021; 2021:86-98. [PMID: 34850897 DOI: 10.1093/jncimonographs/lgab011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis and cannabinoids are increasingly being accessed and used by patients with advanced cancer for various symptoms and general quality of life. Specific symptoms of pain, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite and cachexia, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and medical trauma are among those that have prompted patients with cancer to use cannabis. This conference report from the National Cancer Institute's "Cannabis, Cannabinoid and Cancer Research Symposium" on the topic of "Cancer Symptom/Treatment Side Effect Management" is an expert perspective of cannabis intervention for cancer and cancer treatment-related symptoms. The purpose of the symposium was to identify research gaps, describe the need for high-quality randomized prospective studies of medical cannabis for palliative care in patients with cancer, and evaluate the impact of medical cannabis on cancer survivors' quality of life. Further, education of clinicians and affiliated health-care providers in guiding cancer patients in using cannabis for cancer care would benefit patients. Together, these steps will further aid in refining the use of cannabis and cannabinoids for symptom palliation and improve safety and efficacy for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Sexton
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Management, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jose M Garcia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Washington and Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Puget Sound Veterans Administration Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Aminah Jatoi
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Carey S Clark
- Department of Nursing, Pacific College of Health and Science, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Wallace
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Management, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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Rosenthal MS, Pipitone RN. Demographics, Perceptions, and Use of Medical Marijuana among Patients in Florida. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2021; 4:13-20. [PMID: 34676347 DOI: 10.1159/000512342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical marijuana (MMJ) is currently legal in 35 US states, with an estimated 3.6 million state-legal medical cannabis patients. Although there are currently over 440,000 MMJ patients in the state of Florida, there are limited data on their demographics, reasons and patterns of use, and successes or failures of treatment. The goal of this study is to examine the demographics, perceptions, and use of medical cannabis among patients in Florida, as well as their perceptions of the quality of information received from physicians and dispensaries. One hundred and fifty-seven MMJ patients completed an online survey regarding their characteristics and use. Patients in Florida shared many characteristics with patients in other states, such as race, use frequency, and administration technique. Patients most commonly used MMJ to treat their symptoms of anxiety, pain, and stress and reported great therapeutic effectiveness. A majority (65%) of patients also reported either a reduction or total discontinuation of at least one prescription or over-the-counter drug. The findings highlight the need to further investigate the use of MMJ as a viable treatment for pain and anxiety and to improve access of quality cannabis information to patients, physicians, and dispensary employees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha S Rosenthal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, USA
| | - R Nathan Pipitone
- Department of Psychology, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, USA
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Bramness JG, Hjellvik V, Stubhaug A, Skurtveit S. Possible opioid-saving effect of cannabis-based medicine using individual-based data from the Norwegian Prescription Database. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 130:84-92. [PMID: 34559439 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Some ecological studies have shown that areas with higher use of cannabis may have lower opioid use and fewer opioid-related problems. Newer studies are questioning this finding. Few individually based studies have been performed. Using data from the Norwegian Prescription Database, this study investigated the individual level effect of prescribed cannabis extract (Sativex®) in prescription opioid users on their opioid use in the following year. Looking at all those filling a prescription for Sativex®, opioid use was only marginally lowered in the follow-up period. Some Sativex® users, however, filled more prescriptions for Sativex® and were able to reduce their opioid use substantially. Further studies are needed to elucidate more details on these patients, so as to know who can benefit from such cannabis-based extracts in reducing their opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jørgen G Bramness
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Concurrent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders, Brumunddal, Norway
| | - Vidar Hjellvik
- Department of Chronic diseases and ageing, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Audun Stubhaug
- Department of Pain Management and Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana Skurtveit
- Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Furrer D, Kröger E, Marcotte M, Jauvin N, Bélanger R, Ware M, Foldes-Busque G, Aubin M, Pluye P, Dionne CE. Cannabis against chronic musculoskeletal pain: a scoping review on users and their perceptions. J Cannabis Res 2021; 3:41. [PMID: 34481519 PMCID: PMC8418709 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-021-00096-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) may lead to reduced physical function and is the most common cause of chronic non-cancer pain. Currently, the pharmacotherapeutic options against CMP are limited and frequently consist of pain management with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, gabapentinoids, or opioids, which carry major adverse effects. Although the effectiveness of medical cannabis (MC) for CMP still lacks solid evidence, several patients suffering from it are exploring this therapeutic option with their physicians. Objectives Little is known about patients’ perceptions of their MC treatment for CMP. We aimed to increase this knowledge, useful for healthcare professionals and patients considering this treatment, by conducting a scoping literature review, following guidance by Arksey and O’Malley, to describe the views and perceptions of adult patients who had consumed MC to relieve chronic CMP. Methods Databases (PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science) and websites were searched using combinations of controlled and free vocabulary. All studies and study designs reporting on patients’ perceptions regarding MC against CMP were considered. Studies had to include adult patients reporting qualitatively or quantitatively, i.e., through questionnaires, on MC use to treat CMP or other non-cancer pain, since studies reporting exclusively on perceptions regarding CMP were very rare. Study characteristics were extracted and limitations of the study quality were assessed. The review includes patients’ demographic characteristics, patterns of MC use, perceived positive and negative effects, use of alcohol or other drugs, reported barriers to CM use, and funding sources of the studies. Results Participants of the 49 included studies reported that MC use helped them to reduce CMP and other chronic non-cancer pain, with only minor adverse effects, and some reported improved psychological well-being. In the included studies, men represent between 18 and 88% of the subjects. The mean age of participants in these studies (42/49) varied between 28.4 and 62.8 years old. The most common route of administration is inhalation. Conclusion MC users suffering from CMP or other chronic non-cancer pain perceived more benefits than harms. However, the information from these studies has several methodological limitations and results are exploratory. These user-reported experiences must thus be examined by well-designed and methodologically sound clinical or observational studies, particularly regarding CMP, where reports are very scarce. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42238-021-00096-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Furrer
- Centre d'excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Edeltraut Kröger
- Centre d'excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, QC, Canada. .,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada. .,Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada. .,Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, room L2-30, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada.
| | - Martine Marcotte
- Centre d'excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Jauvin
- Centre d'excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Richard Bélanger
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Mark Ware
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Guillaume Foldes-Busque
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Research Centre of the Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CISSS) de Chaudière-Appalaches, Lévis, QC, Canada
| | - Michèle Aubin
- Centre d'excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre Pluye
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Clermont E Dionne
- Centre d'excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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46
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Lebesmuehlbacher T, Smith RA. The effect of medical cannabis laws on pharmaceutical marketing to physicians. HEALTH ECONOMICS 2021; 30:2409-2436. [PMID: 34258798 DOI: 10.1002/hec.4380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although cannabis is federally prohibited, a majority of U.S. states have implemented medical cannabis laws (MCLs). As more individuals consider the drug for medical treatment, they potentially substitute away from prescription drugs. Therefore, an MCL signals competitor entry. This paper exploits geographic and temporal variation in MCLs to examine the strategic response in direct-to-physician marketing by pharmaceutical firms as cannabis enters the market. Using office detailing records from 2014-2018 aggregated to the county level, we find weak evidence of a relatively small and delayed response in substitute prescription drug- and opioid-related detailing. While these effects on detailing dollars are more pronounced among smaller pharmaceutical firms, the magnitudes are economically small and likely muted at aggregate levels by the small percent of doctors that actively recommend cannabis for medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rhet A Smith
- Department of Economics & Finance, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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47
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Choi NG, Choi BY, Marti CN, DiNitto DM. Is cannabis use associated with prescription psychotropic and pain reliever medication and other substance use among individuals aged 50+ with mental illness? Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 225:108842. [PMID: 34186443 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increasing rates of nonmedical and/or medical cannabis use in the 50+ age group, scant research exists on the associations between cannabis use and prescription medication use. In this study, we examined associations of use of prescription tranquilizers, sedatives, stimulants, and pain relievers, tobacco products, any/binge/heavy alcohol, and illicit drugs with cannabis use and use characteristics among U.S. adults aged 50+ years with past-year mental illness (n = 6454). METHODS Data are from the 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). We used logistic regression models to examine associations of past-month use of each substance with (1) cannabis use among all those with past-year mental illness, and (2) cannabis use characteristics among cannabis users, controlling for severity of mental illness and sociodemographic and health characteristics. RESULTS Of individuals aged 50+, 14.1 % had any past-year mental illness, and 9.7 % of those with mental illness, compared to 4.0 % of those without, reported past-month cannabis use. Compared to nonusers, cannabis users had higher odds of using each substance except antidepressants, with adjusted odds ratios ranging from 1.3 (sedatives) to 3.6 (illicit drugs). Compared to nonmedical cannabis users, medical users had 2-2.5 times higher likelihood of co-use of tranquilizers, sedatives, and prescription pain relievers but lower odds of binge and heavy alcohol use. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis users, especially medical cannabis users, are significantly more likely to use prescription psychotropic or pain medications. Healthcare professionals should assess for poly-substance use and potential adverse effects among older adults with mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78702, USA.
| | - Bryan Y Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA; Bayhealth Medical Center, Dover, DE, 19901, USA
| | - C Nathan Marti
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78702, USA
| | - Diana M DiNitto
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78702, USA
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48
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Noori A, Miroshnychenko A, Shergill Y, Ashoorion V, Rehman Y, Couban RJ, Buckley DN, Thabane L, Bhandari M, Guyatt GH, Agoritsas T, Busse JW. Opioid-sparing effects of medical cannabis or cannabinoids for chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised and observational studies. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047717. [PMID: 34321302 PMCID: PMC8319983 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy and harms of adding medical cannabis to prescription opioids among people living with chronic pain. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES CENTRAL, EMBASE and MEDLINE. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Opioid dose reduction, pain relief, sleep disturbance, physical and emotional functioning and adverse events. STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA AND METHODS We included studies that enrolled patients with chronic pain receiving prescription opioids and explored the impact of adding medical cannabis. We used Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome. RESULTS Eligible studies included five randomised trials (all enrolling chronic cancer-pain patients) and 12 observational studies. All randomised trials instructed participants to maintain their opioid dose, which resulted in a very low certainty evidence that adding cannabis has little or no impact on opioid use (weighted mean difference (WMD) -3.4 milligram morphine equivalent (MME); 95% CI (CI) -12.7 to 5.8). Randomised trials provided high certainty evidence that cannabis addition had little or no effect on pain relief (WMD -0.18 cm; 95% CI -0.38 to 0.02; on a 10 cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain) or sleep disturbance (WMD -0.22 cm; 95% CI -0.4 to -0.06; on a 10 cm VAS for sleep disturbance; minimally important difference is 1 cm) among chronic cancer pain patients. Addition of cannabis likely increases nausea (relative risk (RR) 1.43; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.96; risk difference (RD) 4%, 95% CI 0% to 7%) and vomiting (RR 1.5; 95% CI 1.01 to 2.24; RD 3%; 95% CI 0% to 6%) (both moderate certainty) and may have no effect on constipation (RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.54 to 1.35; RD -1%; 95% CI -4% to 2%) (low certainty). Eight observational studies provided very low certainty evidence that adding cannabis reduced opioid use (WMD -22.5 MME; 95% CI -43.06 to -1.97). CONCLUSION Opioid-sparing effects of medical cannabis for chronic pain remain uncertain due to very low certainty evidence.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42018091098.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Noori
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- The Michael G. DeGroote National Pain Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna Miroshnychenko
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yaadwinder Shergill
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vahid Ashoorion
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yasir Rehman
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel J Couban
- The Michael G. DeGroote National Pain Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Norman Buckley
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohit Bhandari
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gordon H Guyatt
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Agoritsas
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Division of of General Internal Medicine, University of Geneva Faculty of Medicine, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Jason W Busse
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- The Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- The Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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49
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Kvamme SL, Pedersen MM, Rømer Thomsen K, Thylstrup B. Exploring the use of cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs in a convenience sample. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:72. [PMID: 34246279 PMCID: PMC8272272 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00520-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of cannabis as medicine (CaM) both prescribed and non-prescribed has increased markedly in the last decade, mirrored in a global shift in cannabis policy towards a more permissive stance. There is some evidence that cannabis functions as a substitute for prescription drugs, particularly opioids; however, more knowledge is needed on the motives of substitution users, their patterns of use, and perceived effects of substitution use. AIMS To explore who substitutes prescription drugs with cannabis, the type of prescription drugs substituted and the type of cannabis used, and the impact that substitution with cannabis has on prescription drug use as well as the motives for substitution in terms of experienced effects and side effects. METHODS A self-selected convenience sample was recruited through social media, public media, and patient organizations to take part in an anonymous online survey. Inclusion criteria were 18 years or older and use of cannabis (prescribed or non-prescribed) with a medical purpose. RESULTS The final sample included 2.841 respondents of which the majority (91%) used non-prescribed cannabis, and more than half (54.6%) had used CaM with the purpose of replacing a prescribed drug. Compared to non-substitution users, substitution users were more likely to be women and to use CaM in the treatment of chronic pain and other somatic conditions. Pain medication (67.2%), antidepressants (24.5%), and arthritis medication (20.7%) were the most common types of drugs replaced with CaM. Among substitution users, 38.1% reported termination of prescription drug use, and 45.9% a substantial decrease in prescription drug use. The most frequent type of cannabis used as a substitute was CBD-oil (65.2%), followed by 'hash, pot or skunk' (36.6%). More than half (65.8%) found CaM much more effective compared to prescription drugs, and 85.5% that the side effects associated with prescription drug use were much worse compared to use of CaM. CONCLUSION CaM is frequently used as a substitute for prescription drugs, particularly opioids. More research is needed on the long-term consequences of use of CaM, including the impact from low and high THC cannabis products on specific somatic and mental health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinikka L Kvamme
- Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Building 1322. Bartholins Allé 10, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Michael M Pedersen
- Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Building 1322. Bartholins Allé 10, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Kristine Rømer Thomsen
- Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Building 1322. Bartholins Allé 10, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Thylstrup
- Center for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Artillerivej 90, 2. Floor, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark
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50
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Dunn KE, Bergeria CL, Huhn AS, Speed TJ, Mun CJ, Vandrey R, Campbell CM. Within-subject, double-blinded, randomized, and placebo-controlled evaluation of the combined effects of the cannabinoid dronabinol and the opioid hydromorphone in a human laboratory pain model. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:1451-1459. [PMID: 33879842 PMCID: PMC8055479 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01007-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
This Phase II study evaluated analgesia, abuse liability, and cognitive performance of hydromorphone and oral delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; dronabinol) using a within-subject, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, human laboratory trial. Healthy adults (N = 29) with no history of drug use disorder received combinations of placebo, hydromorphone (4 mg; oral), and dronabinol (2.5 mg, 5.0 mg, 10 mg; oral). Primary outcomes were quantitative sensory testing (QST) measures of acute (thermal, pressure pain; thermal, punctate probe temporal summation; cold pressor; conditioned pain modulation) and chronic pain (capsaicin 10% topical cream with thermal rekindling), measures of drug abuse liability, cognitive functioning, and adverse events. Subgroup analyses were conducted within opioid-responders (endorsed >20 on a Drug Effect visual analog scale during the hydromorphone-only condition) and nonresponders. A consistent dose-effect relationship of dronabinol on hydromorphone across all measures was not observed. Analgesia only improved in the hydromorphone + dronabinol 2.5 mg condition. Hydromorphone + dronabinol 2.5 mg showed the lowest and hydromorphone+dronabinol 5 mg showed the highest risk for abuse. Hydromorphone+dronabinol 10 mg produced a high rate of dysphoric effects, and hydromorphone+dronabinol 5 mg and hydromorphone + dronabinol 10 mg produced AEs. Subgroup analyses showed subjective effects and abuse risk was increased among opioid responders and largely absent among nonresponders. Overall, only hydromorphone+dronabinol 2.5 mg modestly enhanced hydromorphone-based analgesia and hydromorphone + dronabinol 5 mg and 10 mg increased risk for abuse and AEs. These data can help inform opioid-sparing efforts in clinical pain populations. Demonstration that potential opioid effects varied as a function of participant opioid sensitivity (e.g., responder status) is a novel finding that warrants additional research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly E. Dunn
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Cecilia L. Bergeria
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Andrew S. Huhn
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Traci J. Speed
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Chung Jung Mun
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Claudia M. Campbell
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
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