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Zhao S, Brands B, Kaduri P, Wickens CM, Hasan OSM, Chen S, Le Foll B, Di Ciano P. The effect of cannabis edibles on driving and blood THC. J Cannabis Res 2024; 6:26. [PMID: 38822413 PMCID: PMC11140993 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-024-00234-y] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis has been shown to impact driving due to changes produced by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis. Current legal thresholds for blood THC while driving are based predominantly on evidence utilizing smoked cannabis. It is known that levels of THC in blood are lower after eating cannabis as compared to smoking yet the impact of edibles on driving and associated blood THC has never been studied. METHODS Participants drove a driving simulator before and after ingesting their preferred legally purchased cannabis edible. In a counterbalanced control session, participants did not consume any THC or cannabidiol (CBD). Blood was collected for measurement of THC and metabolites as well as CBD. Subjective experience was also assessed. RESULTS Participants consumed edibles with, on average, 7.3 mg of THC, which is less than the maximum amount available in a single retail package in Ontario, providing an ecologically valid test of cannabis edibles. Compared to control, cannabis edibles produced a decrease in mean speed 2 h after consumption but not at 4 and 6 h. Under dual task conditions in which participants completed a secondary task while driving, changes in speed were not significant after the correction for multiple comparison. No changes in standard deviation of lateral position (SDLP; 'weaving'), maximum speed, standard deviation of speed or reaction time were found at any time point or under either standard or dual task conditions. Mean THC levels were significantly increased, relative to control, after consuming the edible but remained relatively low at approximately 2.8 ng/mL 2 h after consumption. Driving impairment was not correlated with blood THC. Subjective experience was altered for 7 h and participants were less willing/able to drive for up to 6 h, suggesting that the edible was intoxicating. INTERPRETATION This is the first study of the impact of cannabis edibles on simulated driving. Edibles were intoxicating as revealed by the results of subjective assessments (VAS), and there was some impact on driving. Detection of driving impairment after the use of cannabis edibles may be difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zhao
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - B Brands
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - P Kaduri
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - C M Wickens
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - O S M Hasan
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - S Chen
- Biostatistics Core, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - B Le Foll
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - P Di Ciano
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, Canada.
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Dasram MH, Naidoo P, Walker RB, Khamanga SM. Targeting the Endocannabinoid System Present in the Glioblastoma Tumour Microenvironment as a Potential Anti-Cancer Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1371. [PMID: 38338649 PMCID: PMC10855826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The highly aggressive and invasive glioblastoma (GBM) tumour is the most malignant lesion among adult-type diffuse gliomas, representing the most common primary brain tumour in the neuro-oncology practice of adults. With a poor overall prognosis and strong resistance to treatment, this nervous system tumour requires new innovative treatment. GBM is a polymorphic tumour consisting of an array of stromal cells and various malignant cells contributing to tumour initiation, progression, and treatment response. Cannabinoids possess anti-cancer potencies against glioma cell lines and in animal models. To improve existing treatment, cannabinoids as functionalised ligands on nanocarriers were investigated as potential anti-cancer agents. The GBM tumour microenvironment is a multifaceted system consisting of resident or recruited immune cells, extracellular matrix components, tissue-resident cells, and soluble factors. The immune microenvironment accounts for a substantial volume of GBM tumours. The barriers to the treatment of glioblastoma with cannabinoids, such as crossing the blood-brain barrier and psychoactive and off-target side effects, can be alleviated with the use of nanocarrier drug delivery systems and functionalised ligands for improved specificity and targeting of pharmacological receptors and anti-cancer signalling pathways. This review has shown the presence of endocannabinoid receptors in the tumour microenvironment, which can be used as a potential unique target for specific drug delivery. Existing cannabinoid agents, studied previously, show anti-cancer potencies via signalling pathways associated with the hallmarks of cancer. The results of the review can be used to provide guidance in the design of future drug therapy for glioblastoma tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sandile M. Khamanga
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6139, South Africa (R.B.W.)
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Di Ciano P, Rajji TK, Hong L, Zhao S, Byrne P, Elzohairy Y, Brubacher JR, McGrath M, Brands B, Chen S, Wang W, Hasan OSM, Wickens CM, Kaduri P, Le Foll B. Cannabis and Driving in Older Adults. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2352233. [PMID: 38236599 PMCID: PMC10797455 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.52233] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Epidemiological studies have found that cannabis increases the risk of a motor vehicle collision. Cannabis use is increasing in older adults, but laboratory studies of the association between cannabis and driving in people aged older than 65 years are lacking. Objective To investigate the association between cannabis, simulated driving, and concurrent blood tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels in older adults. Design, Setting, and Participants Using an ecologically valid counterbalanced design, in this cohort study, regular cannabis users operated a driving simulator before, 30 minutes after, and 180 minutes after smoking their preferred legal cannabis or after resting. This study was conducted in Toronto, Canada, between March and November 2022 with no follow-up period. Data were analyzed from December 2022 to February 2023. Exposures Most participants chose THC-dominant cannabis with a mean (SD) content of 18.74% (6.12%) THC and 1.46% (3.37%) cannabidiol (CBD). Main outcomes and measures The primary end point was SD of lateral position (SDLP, or weaving). Secondary outcomes were mean speed (MS), maximum speed, SD of speed, and reaction time. Driving was assessed under both single-task and dual-task (distracted) conditions. Blood THC and metabolites of THC and CBD were also measured at the time of the drives. Results A total of 31 participants (21 male [68%]; 29 White [94%], 1 Latin American [3%], and 1 mixed race [3%]; mean [SD] age, 68.7 [3.5] years), completed all study procedures. SDLP was increased and MS was decreased at 30 but not 180 minutes after smoking cannabis compared with the control condition in both the single-task (SDLP effect size [ES], 0.30; b = 1.65; 95% CI, 0.37 to 2.93; MS ES, -0.58; b = -2.46; 95% CI, -3.56 to -1.36) and dual-task (SDLP ES, 0.27; b = 1.75; 95% CI, 0.21 to 3.28; MS ES, -0.47; b = -3.15; 95% CI, -5.05 to -1.24) conditions. Blood THC levels were significantly increased at 30 minutes but not 180 minutes. Blood THC was not correlated with SDLP or MS at 30 minutes, and SDLP was not correlated with MS. Subjective ratings remained elevated for 5 hours and participants reported that they were less willing to drive at 3 hours after smoking. Conclusions and relevance In this cohort study, the findings suggested that older drivers should exercise caution after smoking cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Di Ciano
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tarek K. Rajji
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Toronto Dementia Research Alliance, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lauren Hong
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sampson Zhao
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrick Byrne
- Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jeffrey R. Brubacher
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael McGrath
- Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bruna Brands
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheng Chen
- Biostatistics Core, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wei Wang
- Biostatistics Core, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Omer S. M. Hasan
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christine M. Wickens
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pamela Kaduri
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbill University of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Acute Care Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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Ortiz-Peregrina S, Oviedo-Trespalacios O, Ortiz C, Anera RG. Self-Regulation of Driving Behavior Under the Influence of Cannabis: The Role of Driving Complexity and Driver Vision. HUMAN FACTORS 2023; 65:1506-1524. [PMID: 34601949 DOI: 10.1177/00187208211047799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study analyzed the self-regulation behaviors of drivers under the influence of cannabis and its relationship with road complexity and some driver traits, including visual deterioration. BACKGROUND Cannabis is the illicit drug most often detected in drivers; its use results in significant negative effects in terms of visual function. Self-regulation behaviors involve the mechanisms used by drivers to maintain or reduce the risk resulting from different circumstances or the driving environment. METHODS Thirty-one young, occasional cannabis users were assessed both in a baseline session and after smoking cannabis. We evaluated the visual function (visual acuity and contrast sensitivity) and driver self-regulation variables of both longitudinal and lateral control as the speed adaptation and standard deviation of lateral position (SDLP). RESULTS Visual function was significantly impaired after cannabis use. Recreational cannabis use did not result in self-regulation, although some road features such as curved roads did determine self-regulation. Male participants adopted mean faster driving speeds with respect to the speed limit. Driver age also determined better lateral control with lower SDLPs. In addition, visual impairment resulting from cannabis use (contrast sensitivity) was linked with self-regulation by changes in longitudinal and lateral control. CONCLUSION Contrast sensitivity could be a good indicator of individual visual status to help determine how drivers self-regulate their driving both in normal conditions and while under the influence of cannabis. APPLICATION The findings provide new insights about driver self-regulation under cannabis effects and are useful for policy making and awareness campaigns.
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Solmi M, De Toffol M, Kim JY, Choi MJ, Stubbs B, Thompson T, Firth J, Miola A, Croatto G, Baggio F, Michelon S, Ballan L, Gerdle B, Monaco F, Simonato P, Scocco P, Ricca V, Castellini G, Fornaro M, Murru A, Vieta E, Fusar-Poli P, Barbui C, Ioannidis JPA, Carvalho AF, Radua J, Correll CU, Cortese S, Murray RM, Castle D, Shin JI, Dragioti E. Balancing risks and benefits of cannabis use: umbrella review of meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials and observational studies. BMJ 2023; 382:e072348. [PMID: 37648266 PMCID: PMC10466434 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-072348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically assess credibility and certainty of associations between cannabis, cannabinoids, and cannabis based medicines and human health, from observational studies and randomised controlled trials (RCTs). DESIGN Umbrella review. DATA SOURCES PubMed, PsychInfo, Embase, up to 9 February 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES Systematic reviews with meta-analyses of observational studies and RCTs that have reported on the efficacy and safety of cannabis, cannabinoids, or cannabis based medicines were included. Credibility was graded according to convincing, highly suggestive, suggestive, weak, or not significant (observational evidence), and by GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations) (RCTs). Quality was assessed with AMSTAR 2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2). Sensitivity analyses were conducted. RESULTS 101 meta-analyses were included (observational=50, RCTs=51) (AMSTAR 2 high 33, moderate 31, low 32, or critically low 5). From RCTs supported by high to moderate certainty, cannabis based medicines increased adverse events related to the central nervous system (equivalent odds ratio 2.84 (95% confidence interval 2.16 to 3.73)), psychological effects (3.07 (1.79 to 5.26)), and vision (3.00 (1.79 to 5.03)) in people with mixed conditions (GRADE=high), improved nausea/vomit, pain, spasticity, but increased psychiatric, gastrointestinal adverse events, and somnolence among others (GRADE=moderate). Cannabidiol improved 50% reduction of seizures (0.59 (0.38 to 0.92)) and seizure events (0.59 (0.36 to 0.96)) (GRADE=high), but increased pneumonia, gastrointestinal adverse events, and somnolence (GRADE=moderate). For chronic pain, cannabis based medicines or cannabinoids reduced pain by 30% (0.59 (0.37 to 0.93), GRADE=high), across different conditions (n=7), but increased psychological distress. For epilepsy, cannabidiol increased risk of diarrhoea (2.25 (1.33 to 3.81)), had no effect on sleep disruption (GRADE=high), reduced seizures across different populations and measures (n=7), improved global impression (n=2), quality of life, and increased risk of somnolence (GRADE=moderate). In the general population, cannabis worsened positive psychotic symptoms (5.21 (3.36 to 8.01)) and total psychiatric symptoms (7.49 (5.31 to 10.42)) (GRADE=high), negative psychotic symptoms, and cognition (n=11) (GRADE=moderate). In healthy people, cannabinoids improved pain threshold (0.74 (0.59 to 0.91)), unpleasantness (0.60 (0.41 to 0.88)) (GRADE=high). For inflammatory bowel disease, cannabinoids improved quality of life (0.34 (0.22 to 0.53) (GRADE=high). For multiple sclerosis, cannabinoids improved spasticity, pain, but increased risk of dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, somnolence (GRADE=moderate). For cancer, cannabinoids improved sleep disruption, but had gastrointestinal adverse events (n=2) (GRADE=moderate). Cannabis based medicines, cannabis, and cannabinoids resulted in poor tolerability across various conditions (GRADE=moderate). Evidence was convincing from observational studies (main and sensitivity analyses) in pregnant women, small for gestational age (1.61 (1.41 to 1.83)), low birth weight (1.43 (1.27 to 1.62)); in drivers, car crash (1.27 (1.21 to 1.34)); and in the general population, psychosis (1.71 (1.47 to 2.00)). Harmful effects were noted for additional neonatal outcomes, outcomes related to car crash, outcomes in the general population including psychotic symptoms, suicide attempt, depression, and mania, and impaired cognition in healthy cannabis users (all suggestive to highly suggestive). CONCLUSIONS Convincing or converging evidence supports avoidance of cannabis during adolescence and early adulthood, in people prone to or with mental health disorders, in pregnancy and before and while driving. Cannabidiol is effective in people with epilepsy. Cannabis based medicines are effective in people with multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, inflammatory bowel disease, and in palliative medicine but not without adverse events. STUDY REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42018093045. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Solmi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ontario, ON, Canada
- On Track: The Champlain First Episode Psychosis Program, Department of Mental Health, The Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical detection Lab, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health-Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, and NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marco De Toffol
- Psychiatry Unit, Veris Delli Ponti Scorrano Hospital, Department of Mental Health, ASL Lecce, Lecce, Italy
| | - Jong Yeob Kim
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min Je Choi
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Physiotherapy Department, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Trevor Thompson
- Centre of Chronic Illness and Ageing, University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - Joseph Firth
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Alessandro Miola
- Neurosciences Department, Padua Neuroscience Center, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Croatto
- Mental Health Department, AULSS 3 Serenissima, Mestre, Venice, Italy
| | - Francesca Baggio
- Mental Health Department, AULSS 3 Serenissima, Mestre, Venice, Italy
| | - Silvia Michelon
- Department of Mental Health, AULSS 7 Pedemontana Veneto, Italy
| | - Luca Ballan
- Department of Mental Health, AULSS 7 Pedemontana Veneto, Italy
| | - Björn Gerdle
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Francesco Monaco
- Department of Mental Health, Asl Salerno, Salerno, Italy
- European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Simonato
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Paolo Scocco
- Mental Health Department, ULSS 6 Euganea, Padova, Italy
| | - Valdo Ricca
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Castellini
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Fornaro
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, University School of Medicine Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Murru
- Institute of Neuroscience, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Institute of Neuroscience, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical detection Lab, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - John P A Ioannidis
- Meta-Research Innovation Center at Stanford, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Meta-Research Innovation Center Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- Departments of Medicine, of Epidemiology and Population Health, of Biomedical Data Science, and of Statistics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andrè F Carvalho
- IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Joaquim Radua
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer, CIBERSAM, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health-Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, and NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (Central Nervous System and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York City, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robin M Murray
- Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College of London, London, UK
| | - David Castle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, TAS, Australia
- Co-Director, Centre for Mental Health Service Innovation, Department of Health, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Severance Underwood Meta-research Center, Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Elena Dragioti
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Research Laboratory Psychology of Patients, Families and Health Professionals, Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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Voy A. Collisions and cannabis: Measuring the effect of recreational marijuana legalization on traffic crashes in Washington State. TRAFFIC INJURY PREVENTION 2023; 24:527-535. [PMID: 37347154 DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2023.2220853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Washington State was among the first states in the US to legalize recreational consumption and retail sales of marijuana. Recreational use of cannabis was legalized December 6, 2012, following the passage of Initiative 502 30 days prior. Roughly 19 months later the first retail cannabis stores opened their doors for public sales ("commercialization"). I measure the impact of cannabis legalization and commercialization on traffic collisions in Washington State. METHODS With county-level vehicle crash data from the Washington State Department of Transportation collected monthly, I utilize an interrupted time-series framework with Poisson estimation to compare traffic collisions with recreational retail cannabis sales revenue from 2011 (three years pre-commercialization) through 2017 (three years post-commercialization). First, I measure the shift in collisions brought about by Washington's 2012 cannabis legalization. Then, I compare retail cannabis sales-a measure of commercialization-to traffic collisions based on severity of injury (fatal, severe injury, minor injury, non-injury, and all). RESULTS After controlling for confounding factors, evidence suggests that recreational cannabis legalization led to fewer fatal and serious injury collisions. Retail cannabis sales generally correlate with more traffic collisions, particularly for less severe (minor injury) crashes. These findings are robust to the inclusion of additional control variables pertaining to county-level cannabis usage and driving behavior while intoxicated. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis legalization led to fewer fatal, serious, and minor injury collisions. Commercialization (cannabis sales) correlated with an increase in less severe crashes. Although cannabis use generally increased in Washington State following legalization/commercialization, survey data suggest that driving behavior while under the influence of cannabis did not change significantly over the post-commercialization period. Future research should focus on measuring the dose-dependent impact of cannabis consumption on traffic collisions. This should include recognition of the importance of cannabis dosing, timing, and route of consumption. Lastly, the dangers of poly-drug driving-particularly cannabis and alcohol-are well established and should be high priority for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Voy
- Economics, School of Business Administration, Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington
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Marinello S, Powell LM. The impact of recreational cannabis markets on motor vehicle accident, suicide, and opioid overdose fatalities. Soc Sci Med 2023; 320:115680. [PMID: 36764087 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.115680] [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] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In the U.S., an increasing number of states are legalizing regulated commercial markets for recreational cannabis, which allows private industry to produce, distribute, and sell marijuana to those 21 and older. The health impacts of these markets are not fully understood. Preliminary evidence suggests recreational markets may be associated with increased use among adults, which indicates there may be downstream health impacts on outcomes related to cannabis use. Three causes of death that are linked to cannabis use are motor vehicle accidents, suicide, and opioid overdose. Drawing on data from U.S. death certificates from 2009 to 2019, we conducted a difference-in-differences analysis to estimate the impact of recreational markets on fatalities from motor vehicle accidents, suicide, and opioid overdose in seven states: Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Nevada, California, and Massachusetts. States with comprehensive medical cannabis programs with similar pre-trends in deaths were used as comparisons. For each outcome, a pooled estimate was generated with a meta-analysis using random effects models. The results revealed substantial increases in crash fatalities in Colorado, Oregon, Alaska, and California of 16%, 22%, 20%, and 14%, respectively. Based on estimates from all seven states, recreational markets were associated with a 10% increase in motor vehicle accident deaths, on average. This study found no evidence that recreational markets impacted suicides. Most states saw a relative reduction in opioid overdose death that ranged between 3 and 28%. On average, recreational markets were associated with an 11% reduction in opioid overdose fatalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Marinello
- Division of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, 1603 W. Taylor Street, M/C 923, Chicago, IL, 60612-4394, USA.
| | - Lisa M Powell
- Division of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, 1603 W. Taylor Street, M/C 923, Chicago, IL, 60612-4394, USA
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Teeters JB, Armstrong NM, King SA, Hubbard SM. A randomized pilot trial of a mobile phone-based brief intervention with personalized feedback and interactive text messaging to reduce driving after cannabis use and riding with a cannabis impaired driver. J Subst Abuse Treat 2022; 142:108867. [PMID: 36007434 PMCID: PMC10810297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2022.108867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Driving after cannabis use (DACU) and riding with a cannabis-impaired driver (RWCD) are national public health concerns. Though driving impairments and increased crash risk make DACU and RWCD two of the riskiest cannabis-related behaviors, many continue to drive after use and ride with others who are under the influence and do not view DACU or RWCD as dangerous. The current study examined the efficacy of an accessible, low-cost, mobile phone-based brief intervention aimed at reducing DACU and RWCD among college cannabis users in the context of a randomized three-group pilot trial. METHOD Participants were 97 college cannabis users (67.4 % women; average age = 21.34; 80.4 % Caucasian) who endorsed DACU at least three times in the past three months. After completing baseline measures, the study randomly assigned participants to one of three conditions: a) a substance impaired-driving personalized feedback plus MI-style interactive text messaging intervention (PF + MIT); b) a substance impaired-driving personalized feedback only intervention (PF); and c) a substance information control condition (IC). All conditions completed outcome measures three months postintervention. RESULTS Generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) analyses indicated that after controlling for sex, cannabis users in the PF + MIT condition significantly reduced DACU and RWCD over time compared to those in the IC condition. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide preliminary support for the short-term efficacy of a mobile phone-based intervention in decreasing DACU and RWCD among college cannabis users. Future research should determine whether these reductions in driving behaviors persist past three months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenni B Teeters
- Psychological Sciences Department, Western Kentucky University, United States of America.
| | - Nicole M Armstrong
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, United States of America
| | - Shelby A King
- Psychology Department, East Tennessee State University, United States of America
| | - Sterling M Hubbard
- Counseling Psychology Department, Iowa State University, United States of America
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9
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Pollard MA, Drakes DH, Harris N. Perceptions of the Risk and Social Acceptability of Driving Under the Influence of Cannabis. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00879-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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10
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Simmons SM, Caird JK, Sterzer F, Asbridge M. The effects of cannabis and alcohol on driving performance and driver behaviour: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Addiction 2022; 117:1843-1856. [PMID: 35083810 DOI: 10.1111/add.15770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cannabis and alcohol are frequently detected in fatal and injury motor vehicle crashes. While epidemiological meta-analyses of cannabis and alcohol have found associations with an increase in crash risk, convergent evidence from driving performance measures is insufficiently quantitatively characterized. Our objectives were to quantify the magnitude of the effect of cannabis and alcohol-alone and in combination-on driving performance and behaviour. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis. We systematically searched Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and TRID. Of the 616 studies that underwent full-text review, this meta-analysis represents 57 studies and 1725 participants. We extracted data for hazard response time, lateral position variability, lane deviations or excursions, time out of lane, driving speed, driving speed variability, speed violations, time speeding, headway, headway variability and crashes from experimental driving studies (i.e. driving simulator, closed-course, on-road) involving cannabis and/or alcohol administration. We reported meta-analyses of effect sizes using Hedges' g and r. RESULTS Cannabis alone was associated with impaired lateral control [e.g. g = 0.331, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.212-0.451 for lateral position variability; g = 0.198, 95% CI = 0.001-0.395 for lane excursions) and decreased driving speed (g = -0.176, 95% CI = -0.298 to -0.053]. The combination of cannabis and alcohol was associated with greater driving performance decrements than either drug in isolation [e.g. g = 0.480, 95% CI = 0.096-0.865 for lateral position variability (combination versus alcohol); g = 0.525, 95% CI = 0.049-1.002 for time out of lane (versus alcohol); g = 0.336, 95% CI = 0.036-0.636 for lateral position variability (combination versus cannabis; g = 0.475, 95% CI = 0.002-0.949 for time out of lane (combination versus cannabis)]. Subgroup analyses indicated that the effects of cannabis on driving performance measures were similar to low blood alcohol concentrations. A scarcity of data and study heterogeneity limited the interpretation of some measures. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis indicates that cannabis, like alcohol, impairs driving, and the combination of the two drugs is more detrimental to driving performance than either in isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Simmons
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jeff K Caird
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,O'Brien Institute of Public Health, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Frances Sterzer
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mark Asbridge
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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11
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Fischer B, Robinson T, Bullen C, Curran V, Jutras-Aswad D, Medina-Mora ME, Pacula RL, Rehm J, Room R, van den Brink W, Hall W. Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines (LRCUG) for reducing health harms from non-medical cannabis use: A comprehensive evidence and recommendations update. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 99:103381. [PMID: 34465496 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use is common, especially among young people, and is associated with risks for various health harms. Some jurisdictions have recently moved to legalization/regulation pursuing public health goals. Evidence-based 'Lower Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines' (LRCUG) and recommendations were previously developed to reduce modifiable risk factors of cannabis-related adverse health outcomes; related evidence has evolved substantially since. We aimed to review new scientific evidence and to develop comprehensively up-to-date LRCUG, including their recommendations, on this evidence basis. METHODS Targeted searches for literature (since 2016) on main risk factors for cannabis-related adverse health outcomes modifiable by the user-individual were conducted. Topical areas were informed by previous LRCUG content and expanded upon current evidence. Searches preferentially focused on systematic reviews, supplemented by key individual studies. The review results were evidence-graded, topically organized and narratively summarized; recommendations were developed through an iterative scientific expert consensus development process. RESULTS A substantial body of modifiable risk factors for cannabis use-related health harms were identified with varying evidence quality. Twelve substantive recommendation clusters and three precautionary statements were developed. In general, current evidence suggests that individuals can substantially reduce their risk for adverse health outcomes if they delay the onset of cannabis use until after adolescence, avoid the use of high-potency (THC) cannabis products and high-frequency/-intensity of use, and refrain from smoking-routes for administration. While young people are particularly vulnerable to cannabis-related harms, other sub-groups (e.g., pregnant women, drivers, older adults, those with co-morbidities) are advised to exercise particular caution with use-related risks. Legal/regulated cannabis products should be used where possible. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis use can result in adverse health outcomes, mostly among sub-groups with higher-risk use. Reducing the risk factors identified can help to reduce health harms from use. The LRCUG offer one targeted intervention component within a comprehensive public health approach for cannabis use. They require effective audience-tailoring and dissemination, regular updating as new evidence become available, and should be evaluated for their impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Fischer
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Tessa Robinson
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Chris Bullen
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; National Institute for Health Innovation (NIHI), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Canada
| | - Maria Elena Medina-Mora
- Center for Global Mental Health Research, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosalie Liccardo Pacula
- Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Sol Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, Toronto, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs, Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wim van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wayne Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, United Kingdom
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12
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Blandino A, Cotroneo R, Tambuzzi S, Di Candia D, Genovese U, Zoja R. Driving under the influence of drugs: Correlation between blood psychoactive drug concentrations and cognitive impairment. A narrative review taking into account forensic issues. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 4:100224. [PMID: 35330981 PMCID: PMC8938866 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Driving under the influence of alcohol has been shown to increase the risk of involvement in road traffic collisions (RTCs) however, less is known about the effects of illicit drugs, and a clear correlation between drug concentrations and RTC risk is still debated. The goal of this narrative review is to assess the current literature regarding the most detected psychoactive drugs in RTC (ethanol, amphetamines, cannabis, opioids and cocaine), in relation to driving performance. Evidence on impaired driving due to psychoactive substances, forensic issues relating to the assessment of the impact of drugs, blood cut-off values proposed to date as well as scientific basis for proposed legislative limits are discussed. At present there is no unequivocal evidence demonstrating a clear dose/concentration dependent impairment in many substances. Per se and zero tolerance approaches seem to have negative effect on drugged driving fatalities. However, the weight of these approaches needs further investigation. Driving under the influence of psychotropic substances has become a widespread phenomenon. Only a few substances have been reported to have a clear dose/concentration dependent impairment. Statistically significant differences should not be considered as clinically significant per se There is wide variability in legislative cut-offs. Detection limits seems to be the most public safety-oriented legislative approach.
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13
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Mohiuddin M, Blyth FM, Degenhardt L, Di Forti M, Eccleston C, Haroutounian S, Moore A, Rice ASC, Wallace M, Park R, Gilron I. General risks of harm with cannabinoids, cannabis, and cannabis-based medicine possibly relevant to patients receiving these for pain management: an overview of systematic reviews. Pain 2021; 162:S80-S96. [PMID: 32941319 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The growing demand for improved pain treatments together with expanding legalization of, and access to, cannabinoids, cannabis, and cannabis-based medicines has intensified the focus on risk-benefit considerations in pain management. Given limited harms data from analgesic clinical trials, we conducted an overview of systematic reviews focused on all harms possibly relevant to patients receiving cannabinoids for pain management. This PROSPERO-registered, PRISMA-compliant systematic overview identified 79 reviews, encompassing over 2200 individual reports about psychiatric and psychosocial harms, cognitive/behavioral effects, motor vehicle accidents, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer-related, maternal/fetal, and general harms. Reviews, and their included studies, were of variable quality. Available evidence suggests variable associations between cannabis exposure (ranging from monthly to daily use based largely on self-report) and psychosis, motor vehicle accidents, respiratory problems, and other harms. Most evidence comes from settings other than that of pain management (eg, nonmedicinal and experimental) but does signal a need for caution and more robust harms evaluation in future studies. Given partial overlap between patients receiving cannabinoids for pain management and individuals using cannabinoids for other reasons, lessons from the crisis of oversupply and overuse of opioids in some parts of the world emphasize the need to broadly consider harms evidence from real-world settings. The advancement of research on cannabinoid harms will serve to guide optimal approaches to the use of cannabinoids for pain management. In the meantime, this evidence should be carefully examined when making risk-benefit considerations about the use of cannabinoids, cannabis, and cannabis-based medicine for chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Mohiuddin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Fiona M Blyth
- University of Sydney Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marta Di Forti
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre at South London, Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, King's College, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Simon Haroutounian
- Division of Clinical and Translational Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, United States
| | | | - Andrew S C Rice
- Department Surgery and Cancer, Pain Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Wallace
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rex Park
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Ian Gilron
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- School of Policy Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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14
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Lee C, Voaklander D, Minhas-Sandhu JK, Hanlon JG, Hyshka E, Dyck JRB, Eurich DT. Cohort study of medical cannabis authorization and motor vehicle crash-related healthcare visits in 2014-2017 in Ontario, Canada. Inj Epidemiol 2021; 8:33. [PMID: 33906699 PMCID: PMC8080313 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-021-00321-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With increasing numbers of countries/jurisdictions legalizing cannabis, cannabis impaired driving has become a serious public health concern. Despite substantive research linking cannabis use with higher rates of motor vehicle crashes (MVC), there is an absence of conclusive evidence linking MVC risk with medical cannabis use. In fact, there is no clear understanding of the impact of medical cannabis use on short- and long-term motor vehicle-related healthcare visits. This study assesses the impact of medical cannabis authorization on motor vehicle-related health utilization visits (hospitalizations, ambulatory care, emergency department visits, etc) between 2014 and 2017 in Ontario, Canada. Methods A matched cohort study was conducted on patients authorized to use medical cannabis and controls who did not receive authorization for medical cannabis – in Ontario, Canada. Overall, 29,153 adult patients were identified and subsequently linked to the administrative databases of the Ontario Ministry of Health, providing up to at least 6 months of longitudinal follow-up data following the initial medical cannabis consultation. Interrupted time series analyses was conducted to evaluate the change in rates of healthcare utilization as a result of MVC 6 months before and 6 months after medical cannabis authorization. Results Over the 6-month follow-up period, MVC-related visits in medical cannabis patients were 0.50 visits/10000 patients (p = 0.61) and − 0.31 visits/10000 patients (p = 0.64) for MVC-related visits in controls. Overall, authorization for medical cannabis was associated with an immediate decrease in MVC-related visits of − 2.42 visits/10000 patients (p = 0.014) followed by a statistically significant increased rate of MVC-related visits (+ 0.89 events/10,000 in those authorized medical cannabis) relative to controls in the period following their authorization(p = 0.0019). Overall, after accounting for both the immediate and trend effects, authorization for medical cannabis was associated with an increase of 2.92 events/10,000 (95%CI 0.64 to 5.19) over the entire follow-up period. This effect was largely driven by MVC-related emergency department visits (+ 0.80 events/10,000, p < 0.001). Conclusions Overall, there was an association between medical cannabis authorization and healthcare utilization, at the population level, in Ontario, Canada. These findings have public health importance and patients and clinicians should be fully educated on the potential risks. Continued follow-up of medically authorized cannabis patients is warranted to fully comprehend long-term impact on motor vehicle crash risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cerina Lee
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 2-040 Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Research Innovation 11,203-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Don Voaklander
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 2-040 Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Research Innovation 11,203-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jasjeet K Minhas-Sandhu
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 2-040 Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Research Innovation 11,203-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - John G Hanlon
- St. Michael's Hospital Department of Anesthesia, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elaine Hyshka
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 2-040 Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Research Innovation 11,203-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jason R B Dyck
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dean T Eurich
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 2-040 Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Research Innovation 11,203-87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, AB T6G 2E1, Canada.
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15
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Abstract
The aim of this review is to discuss recent evidence on cannabis and driving ability. In particular, the review examines experimental research on the acute effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on driving-related neurobehavioral skills and driving performance based on simulator and road course studies. The evidence indicates that certain driving abilities are significantly, albeit modestly, impaired in individuals experiencing the acute effects of THC. Treatment effects are moderated by dose, delivery method, recency of use, and tolerance development, with inconclusive evidence concerning the moderating influence of cannabidiol. Emerging research priorities include linking neurobehavioral deficits to specific decrements in driving performance, estimating the real-world implications of experimental impaired driving research, understanding how tolerance differentially affects driving impairment across subgroups, and developing more evidence on cannabidiol's potential role in mitigating THC-induced impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L Sevigny
- Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, 55 Park Place NE, Suite 519, Atlanta, GA, 30303, United States.
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16
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Preuss UW, Huestis MA, Schneider M, Hermann D, Lutz B, Hasan A, Kambeitz J, Wong JWM, Hoch E. Cannabis Use and Car Crashes: A Review. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:643315. [PMID: 34122176 PMCID: PMC8195290 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.643315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, state-of-the-art evidence on the relationship between cannabis use, traffic crash risks, and driving safety were analyzed. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and other relevant papers published within the last decade were systematically searched and synthesized. Findings show that meta-analyses and culpability studies consistently indicate a slightly but significantly increased risk of crashes after acute cannabis use. These risks vary across included study type, crash severity, and method of substance application and measurement. Some studies show a significant correlation between high THC blood concentrations and car crash risk. Most studies do not support this relationship at lower THC concentrations. However, no scientifically supported clear cut-off concentration can be derived from these results. Further research is needed to determine dose-response effects on driving skills combined with measures of neuropsychological functioning related to driving skills and crash risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich W Preuss
- Vitos Klinik Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Herborn, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute on Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Severna Park, MD, United States
| | - Miriam Schneider
- Institute of Psychology, Heidelberg University, Department of Developmental and Biological Psychology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Derik Hermann
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and German Center for Resilience, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Alkomiet Hasan
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Clinic of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Joseph Kambeitz
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Clinic of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Eva Hoch
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Clinic of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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Ortiz-Peregrina S, Ortiz C, Castro-Torres JJ, Jiménez JR, Anera RG. Effects of Smoking Cannabis on Visual Function and Driving Performance. A Driving-Simulator Based Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239033. [PMID: 33287427 PMCID: PMC7731084 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in the world. Limited information about the effects of cannabis on visual function is available, and more detail about the possible impact of visual effects on car driving is required. This study investigated the effects of smoking cannabis on vision and driving performance, and whether these effects are correlated. Twenty drivers and occasional users were included (mean (SE) age, 23.3 (1.0) years; five women). Vision and simulated driving performance were evaluated in a baseline session and after smoking cannabis. Under the influence of cannabis, certain visual functions such as visual acuity (p < 0.001), contrast sensitivity (p = 0.004) and stereoacuity (far, p < 0.001; near, p = 0.013) worsened. In addition, there was an overall deterioration of driving performance, with the task of keeping the vehicle in the lane proving more difficult (p < 0.05). A correlation analysis showed significant associations between driving performance and visual function. Thus, the strongest correlations were found between the distance driven onto the shoulder and stereoacuity, for near (ρ = 0.504; p = 0.001) and far distances (ρ = 0.408; p = 0.011). This study provides the first evidence to show that the visual effects of cannabis could impact driving performance, compromising driving safety. The results indicate that information and awareness campaigns are essential for reducing the incidence of driving under the influence of cannabis.
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18
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Lloyd SL, Lopez-Quintero C, Striley CW. Sex differences in driving under the influence of cannabis: The role of medical and recreational cannabis use. Addict Behav 2020; 110:106525. [PMID: 32711286 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing evidence suggest that cannabis may impair driving and is the most prevalent drug identified in drivers. Males exhibit an excess risk for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol compared to females. We assessed sex differences in the association between the reason for cannabis use (medical, recreational, or both) and driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC). METHODS A sample of 17,405 past 12-month cannabis users (18 + years old) were analyzed from the 2016-17 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the interaction of sex and reason for cannabis use on DUIC using predicted probabilities. RESULTS Among cannabis users in the sample, 88.1% used for recreational reasons, 7.8% used for medical reasons, and 4.1% used for medical and recreational reasons. The probability of DUIC was as low as 20% among female medical only users, and as high as 40% among male combined medical and recreational users. Females showed more similar probabilities of DUIC across reasons of use (range 20% to 25%s) than males (range 28% to 40%). The difference in the probability of DUIC between combined medical and recreational users and recreational only users was significantly greater among males than among females (Δ 0.1, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The observed effects of sex and reasons for cannabis use on DUIC suggests a need for targeted educational interventions, particularly among males reporting combined medical and recreational marijuana use.
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Campeny E, López-Pelayo H, Nutt D, Blithikioti C, Oliveras C, Nuño L, Maldonado R, Florez G, Arias F, Fernández-Artamendi S, Villalbí JR, Sellarès J, Ballbè M, Rehm J, Balcells-Olivero MM, Gual A. The blind men and the elephant: Systematic review of systematic reviews of cannabis use related health harms. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 33:1-35. [PMID: 32165103 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is the third most used psychoactive substance worldwide. The legal status of cannabis is changing in many Western countries, while we have very limited knowledge of the public health impact of cannabis-related harms. There is a need for a summary of the evidence of harms and risks attributed to cannabis use, in order to inform the definition of cannabis risky use. We have conducted a systematic review of systematic reviews, aiming to define cannabis-related harms. We included systematic reviews published until July 2018 from six different databases and following the PRISMA guidelines. To assess study quality we applied the AMSTAR 2 tool. A total of 44 systematic reviews, including 1,053 different studies, were eligible for inclusion. Harm was categorized in three dimensions: mental health, somatic harm and physical injury (including mortality). Evidence shows a clear association between cannabis use and psychosis, affective disorders, anxiety, sleep disorders, cognitive failures, respiratory adverse events, cancer, cardiovascular outcomes, and gastrointestinal disorders. Moreover, cannabis use is a risk factor for motor vehicle collision, suicidal behavior and partner and child violence. Cannabis use is a risk factor for several medical conditions and negative social consequences. There is still little data on the dose-dependency of these effects; evidence that is essential in order to define, from a public health perspective, what can be considered risky use of cannabis. This definition should be based on quantitative and qualitative criteria that informs and permits the evaluation of current approaches to a regulated cannabis market.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Campeny
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.
| | - H López-Pelayo
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Nutt
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology, Division of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - C Blithikioti
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Oliveras
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Nuño
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Maldonado
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Florez
- Hospital Universitario de Ourense, Ourense, Spain
| | - F Arias
- Hospital Doce de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - J R Villalbí
- Public Health Agency of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Sellarès
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Ballbè
- Catalan Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, (CAMH), Canada; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Canada; Addiction Policy, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto (UofT), Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, UofT, Canada; Epidemiological Research Unit, Klinische Psychologie & Psychotherapie, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - M M Balcells-Olivero
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Gual
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Grup Recerca Addiccions Clinic (GRAC-GRE) Psychiatry Department, Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
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Herrera-Gómez F, García-Mingo M, Colás M, González-Luque JC, Alvarez FJ. Drivers who tested positive for cannabis in oral fluid: a longitudinal analysis of administrative data for Spain between 2011 and 2016. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026648. [PMID: 31455697 PMCID: PMC6720329 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the association between positive roadside tests for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other driving-impairing substances and THC concentrations and the age and gender of THC-positive drivers. DESIGN This study is based on administrative data. SETTING, PARTICIPANTS AND EXPOSURES National administrative data on drivers who tested positive in confirmation analysis of driving-impairing substances in oral fluid were assessed (2011-2016, 179 645 tests). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Frequencies of positivity for THC, THC alone and THC plus non-THC substances (stratification by age and gender in 2016) and THC concentration were obtained. Comparisons and univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed. RESULTS Of the 65 244 confirmed drug-positive tests, 51 869 were positive for THC (79.5%). In 50.8% of the THC-positive tests, cocaine and amphetamines were also detected. Positivity for THC and non-THC substances predominated among drivers with low THC concentrations and represented 58.6% of those with levels lower than 25 ng/mL. The mean±SD for age was 29.6±7.7 years (year 2016, n=24 941). Men accounted for 96.3% of all THC-positive drivers. With increasing age, positivity for THC decreased (OR 0.948; 95% CI 0.945 to 0.952; p<0.0001), and positivity for THC and non-THC substances increased (OR 1.021; 95% CI 1.017 to 1.024; p<0.0001). Men were associated with higher THC concentrations (OR 1.394; 95% CI 1.188 to 1.636; p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Cannabis positivity is frequent among drivers, and polysubstance use is common. Hence, focusing on younger drivers and those with low THC concentrations is encouraged. This study provides evidence on the current implementation of roadside drug testing in Spain and aims to characterise driving under the influence (DUI) of cannabis to increase the awareness of all involved to help them avoid DUI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Herrera-Gómez
- Pharmacological Big Data Laboratory, Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
- Nephrology, Complejo Asistencial de Zamora, Zamora, Spain
| | - Mercedes García-Mingo
- Pharmacological Big Data Laboratory, Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | | | - Juan Carlos González-Luque
- Direccion General de Trafico, Madrid, Spain
- Subdirección General de Coordinación de Programas, Delegación del Gobierno para el Plan Nacional sobre Drogas, Ministerio de Sanidad, Consumo y Bienestar Social, Madrid, Spain
| | - F Javier Alvarez
- Pharmacological Big Data Laboratory, Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
- CEIm, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
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Ghazaleh S, Alqahtani A, Nehme C, Abugharbyeh A, Said Ahmed TS. A Rare Case of Cannabis-induced Acute Pancreatitis. Cureus 2019; 11:e4878. [PMID: 31417823 PMCID: PMC6693792 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammatory condition of the pancreas, caused mainly by gallstones and alcohol abuse. A significant proportion of acute pancreatitis cases remain idiopathic. Recent reports have highlighted cannabis use as an etiology of acute pancreatitis. A few case reports are available that report the association of cannabis with acute pancreatitis. Considering the global use of cannabis medically and illicitly, it becomes imperative to explore this adverse effect of cannabis use especially in idiopathic cases of acute pancreatitis. Here, in this report, we present a case of acute pancreatitis with no obvious cause. The patient was a 48-year-old female with no history of alcohol use. She had a history of cholecystectomy with normal serum triglycerides and calcium levels. The patient was consuming marijuana (cannabis) daily for the last three years. The diagnosis of cannabis-induced acute pancreatitis was made in the patient after other causes were excluded. It is difficult to distinguish cannabis-induced pancreatitis as there are no clear and specific associated clinical features. The diagnosis of cannabis-induced pancreatitis becomes even more challenging due to the use of multiple drugs. It becomes difficult to point out the causative agent among the multitude of drugs. Hence, a detailed history of drug intake in cases of acute pancreatitis may help to identify the candidature of the drugs in the pathogenesis of the disease. In view of the increasing illicit and medical use of cannabis, it becomes quintessential for clinicians to consider pancreatitis as a possible adverse effect of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Ghazaleh
- Internal Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, USA
| | - Ali Alqahtani
- Internal Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, USA
| | - Christian Nehme
- Internal Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, USA
| | - Aya Abugharbyeh
- Internal Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, USA
| | - Tamer S Said Ahmed
- Pulmonary / Critical Care Medicine, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, USA
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22
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Delling FN, Vittinghoff E, Dewland TA, Pletcher MJ, Olgin JE, Nah G, Aschbacher K, Fang CD, Lee ES, Fan SM, Kazi DS, Marcus GM. Does cannabis legalisation change healthcare utilisation? A population-based study using the healthcare cost and utilisation project in Colorado, USA. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e027432. [PMID: 31092662 PMCID: PMC6530411 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of cannabis legalisation on health effects and healthcare utilisation in Colorado (CO), the first state to legalise recreational cannabis, when compared with two control states, New York (NY) and Oklahoma (OK). DESIGN We used the 2010 to 2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilisation Project (HCUP) inpatient databases to compare changes in rates of healthcare utilisation and diagnoses in CO versus NY and OK. SETTING Population-based, inpatient. PARTICIPANTS HCUP state-wide data comprising over 28 million individuals and over 16 million hospitalisations across three states. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We used International Classification of Diseases-Ninth Edition codes to assess changes in healthcare utilisation specific to various medical diagnoses potentially treated by or exacerbated by cannabis. Diagnoses were classified based on weight of evidence from the National Academy of Science (NAS). Negative binomial models were used to compare rates of admissions between states. RESULTS In CO compared with NY and OK, respectively, cannabis abuse hospitalisations increased (risk ratio (RR) 1.27, 95% CI 1.26 to 1.28 and RR 1.16, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.17; both p<0.0005) post-legalisation. In CO, there was a reduction in total admissions but only when compared with OK (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.96 to 0.98, p<0.0005). Length of stay and costs did not change significantly in CO compared with NY or OK. Post-legalisation changes most consistent with NAS included an increase in motor vehicle accidents, alcohol abuse, overdose injury and a reduction in chronic pain admissions (all p<0.05 compared with each control state). CONCLUSIONS Recreational cannabis legalisation is associated with neutral effects on healthcare utilisation. In line with previous evidence, cannabis liberalisation is linked to an increase in motor vehicle accidents, alcohol abuse, overdose injuries and a decrease in chronic pain admissions. Such population-level effects may help guide future decisions regarding cannabis use, prescription and policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca N Delling
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Eric Vittinghoff
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Thomas A Dewland
- Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Mark J Pletcher
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Olgin
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Gregory Nah
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kirstin Aschbacher
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christina D Fang
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Emily S Lee
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Shannon M Fan
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Dhruv S Kazi
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Gregory M Marcus
- Medicine (Cardiology), University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Shover CL, Humphreys K. Six policy lessons relevant to cannabis legalization. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2019; 45:698-706. [PMID: 30870053 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2019.1569669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background: Cannabis (marijuana) has been legalized for recreational and/or medicinal use in many US states, despite remaining a Schedule-I drug at the federal level. As legalization regimes are established in multiple countries, public health professionals should leverage decades of knowledge from other policy areas (e.g., alcohol and tobacco regulation) to inform cannabis policy.Objectives: Identify policy lessons from other more established policy areas that can inform cannabis policy in the United States, Canada, and any other nations that legalize recreational cannabis.Methods: Narrative review of policy and public health literature.Results: We identified six key lessons to guide cannabis policy. To avoid the harms of "a medical system only in name," medical cannabis programs should either be regulated like medicine or combined with the recreational market. Capping potency of cannabis products can reduce the harms of the drug, including addiction. Pricing policies that promote public health may include minimum unit pricing or taxation by weight. Protecting science and public health from corporate interest can prevent the scenarios we have seen with soda and tobacco lobbies funding studies to report favorable results about their products. Legalizing states can go beyond reducing possession arrests (which can be accomplished without legalization) by expunging prior criminal records of cannabis-related convictions. Finally, facilitating rigorous research can differentiate truth from positive and negative hype about cannabis' effects.Conclusion: Scientists and policymakers can learn from the successes and failures of alcohol and tobacco policy to regulate cannabis products, thereby mitigating old harms of cannabis prohibition while reducing new harms from legalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea L Shover
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Keith Humphreys
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Veterans Affairs Health Care System and Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Pearson MR. A meta-analytic investigation of the associations between cannabis use and cannabis-related negative consequences. PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS 2019; 33:190-196. [PMID: 30843713 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In the current climate of policy change regarding cannabis (i.e., decriminalization, medicalization, and legalization), various stakeholders have a strong interest in determining the associations between cannabis use and important outcomes. The present study sought to quantify the association between indicators of cannabis use and the experience of cannabis-related negative consequences. We found 19 unique studies that examined the associations between cannabis use and negative consequences as measured by 1 of 4 measures: the Marijuana Problems Scale, the Rutgers Marijuana Problem Index, the Cannabis Problems Questionnaire, or the Marijuana Consequences Questionnaire. We used random effects meta-analytic techniques to estimate the average strength of association between cannabis use and negative consequences, determine the level of heterogeneity in effect sizes, and examine possible moderators of these associations (measure of consequences, gender/sex distribution). We found that cannabis use had a medium-sized association with consequences, rw = .367, with high levels of heterogeneity that depended to some extent on the specific consequence measure used. Similar to a meta-analytic integration of the alcohol use-consequences association, we found that most of the variance in cannabis-related negative consequences was not explained by any single indicator of cannabis use, pointing to the fact that additional factors need to be examined to explain the experience of negative consequences from cannabis use and that additional indicators of cannabis use may be needed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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25
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Bonar EE, Cranford JA, Arterberry BJ, Walton MA, Bohnert KM, Ilgen MA. Driving under the influence of cannabis among medical cannabis patients with chronic pain. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 195:193-197. [PMID: 30638777 PMCID: PMC6359955 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) is a public health concern among those using medical cannabis. Understanding behaviors contributing to DUIC can inform prevention efforts. We evaluated three past 6-month DUIC behaviors among medical cannabis users with chronic pain. METHODS Adults (N = 790) seeking medical cannabis certification or recertification for moderate/severe pain were recruited from February 2014 through June 2015 at Michigan medical cannabis clinics. About half of participants were male (52%) and 81% were White; their Mean age was 45.8 years. Participants completed survey measures of DUIC (driving within 2 h of use, driving while "a little high," and driving while "very high") and background factors (demographics, alcohol use, etc.). Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regressions were used to examine correlates of DUIC. RESULTS For the past 6 months, DUIC within 2 h of use was reported by 56.4% of the sample, DUIC while a "little high" was reported by 50.5%, and "very high" was reported by 21.1%. Greater cannabis quantity consumed and binge drinking were generally associated with DUIC behaviors. Higher pain was associated with lower likelihood of DUIC. Findings vary somewhat across DUIC measures. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of DUIC is concerning, with more research needed on how to best measure DUIC. Prevention messaging for DUIC may be enhanced by addressing alcohol co-consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Bonar
- University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 2800 Plymouth Road, NCRC10-G080, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109
| | - James A. Cranford
- University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Brooke J. Arterberry
- University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,Department of Psychology, Iowa State University, 901 Stange Road, Ames, IA 50011
| | - Maureen A. Walton
- University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 2800 Plymouth Road, NCRC10-G080, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109
| | - Kipling M. Bohnert
- University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, 2215 Fuller Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
| | - Mark A. Ilgen
- University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan School of Medicine, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, 2215 Fuller Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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Towards an On-Site Marijuana Impairment Test (OMIT) for Safety-Sensitive Workplaces. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2018. [DOI: 10.1097/cxa.0000000000000023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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