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Osteoarthritis accounts for 0.6% of disability-adjusted life years globally. There is a paucity of research focused on cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) for osteoarthritic chronic pain management. This study aims to assess changes in validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and CBMP clinical safety in patients with osteoarthritis. A prospective case series from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry was analyzed. Primary outcomes were changes in the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ2), EQ-5D-5L, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire, and Single-Item Sleep Quality Scale (SQS) at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups from baseline. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v.4.0 was used for adverse event (AE) analysis. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.050. Seventy-seven patients met inclusion criteria. CBMP initiation correlated with BPI pain severity (p = 0.004), pain interference (p = 0.005), and MPQ2 (p = 0.017) improvements at all follow-ups compared to baseline. There were improvements in the EQ-5D-5L index (p = 0.026), SQS (p < 0.001), and GAD-7 (p = 0.038) up to 6 and 3 months, respectively. Seventeen participants (22.08%) recorded 76 mild AEs (34.86%), 104 moderate AEs (47.71%), and 38 severe AEs (17.43%). Though causality cannot be assumed in this observational study, results support development of randomized control trials for osteoarthritis pain management with CBMPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This narrative review explores current insights into the potential use of medicinal cannabis-related products as an emerging therapy for opioid use disorder in the landscape of increasing knowledge about medicinal cannabis-based products, commercialisation and global legalisation. Preclinical studies have provided preliminary insight into the putative neurobiological mechanisms that underpin the potential for medicinal cannabis to be considered a therapeutic in opioid use disorder and addiction. With the progressive legalisation of cannabis in many jurisdictions worldwide, contemporary research has highlighted further evidence that medicinal cannabis may have efficacy in reducing cravings and withdrawal effects, and therefore may be considered as an adjunct or standalone to current medications for opioid use disorder. Despite this potential, the landscape of research in this space draws from a large number of observational studies, with a paucity of rigorous randomised controlled trials to ascertain a true understanding of effect size and safety profile. With current challenges in implementation that arise from political and legal qualms about adopting medicinal cannabis on the background of associated social stigma, significant hurdles remain to be addressed by government, policy-makers, healthcare providers and researchers before medical cannabis can be introduced globally for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Plain Language Summary: The aim of this review was to synthesise current evidence to understand how medicinal cannabis products may be able to tackle the signs, symptoms and outcomes related to opioid dependence. At the present time, opioid dependence is associated with a significant burden of disease and death in the community. Current treatment for opioid dependence includes supplying controlled-release opioids in a regulated (and often observed) manner in the community. However, despite the implementation of this strategy, the outcomes related to opioid use and dependence remain relatively unchanged, indicating that the current gold standard treatment is not as effective as it should be. Following the legalisation and commercialisation of medicinal cannabis, there has been increased research into the ways these products can be leveraged for different conditions and indications, including in opioid dependence. Given this context, in this narrative we explore this preliminary evidence and evaluate the steps required in further research and policy changes before more widespread implementation of medical cannabis can be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Schedule-induced drinking (SID) reproduces an excessive and repetitive behavioural pattern that has led to propose this procedure as an animal model to study compulsive behaviours. Although it is known that cannabis can cause several adverse effects, in recent years there has been great interest in the medical application of cannabis derivatives for obsessive-compulsive related disorders. Objectives: The present study investigated the effects of repeated THC administration on rates of previously acquired SID, as well as the possible alteration of its temporal distribution along inter-food intervals. Methods: Male Wistar rats acquired SID under a 30 min fixed-time 30-sec food delivery schedule (from 30 to 43 sessions to reach a stable level). Thereafter, 5 or 10 mg/kg daily i.p. injections of THC or vehicle were repeatedly administered for 7 days to evaluate the effects on SID. Results: Repeated THC administration at a dose of 5 mg/kg resulted in an increase on licking. Surprisingly, no effects on SID were observed with the 10 mg/kg dose. However, magazine entries were reduced with both THC doses. THC also modified the temporal distributions of licking and magazine entries during inter-food intervals. Conclusions: The present results show that repeated THC administration may (i) increase induced licking at moderate doses, (ii) reduce magazine entries, and (iii) affect the temporal pattern of SID. These findings suggest that THC does not appear to be beneficial to reduce compulsive behaviour in this animal model, while another collateral effect of THC —such as a greater habitual-like behaviour— needs to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis-related emergency department visits have increased after legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational use. Accordingly, the incidence of emergency department visits due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in patients with chronic cannabis use has also increased. The aim of this study was to examine trends of emergency department visit due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in Nevada and evaluate factors associated with the increased risk for emergency department visit. The State Emergency Department Databases of Nevada between 2013 and 2021 were used for investigating trends of emergency department visits for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. We compared patients visiting the emergency department due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome with those visiting the emergency department due to other causes except cannabinoid hyperemesis and estimated the impact of cannabis commercialization for recreational use. Emergency department visits due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome have continuously increased during the study period. The number of emergency department visits per 100,000 was 1.07 before commercialization for recreational use. It increased to 2.22 per 100,000 (by approximately 1.1 per 100,000) after commercialization in the third quarter of 2017. Those with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome were younger with fewer male patients than those without cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. A substantial increase in emergency department visits due to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome occurred in Nevada, especially after the commercialization of recreational cannabis. Further study is needed to explore factors associated with emergency department visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabis was legalised for medical purposes in 2016. Uptake was initially slow, but since 2019 there has been a large increase in the number of Australians who have been prescribed cannabis for medical reasons. Yet a significant number of consumers continue to treat their medical conditions via illicitly-sourced cannabis. Little is known about how these two groups of medical cannabis consumers differ. Methods: The anonymous Cannabis-As-Medicine Survey 2022–2023 (CAMS-22) was available for completion online from December 2022 to April 2023 to adult Australians who had used cannabis to treat a medical condition in the previous year. Recruitment occurred through social media, consumer forums, and medical practices. Questions included demographic characteristics, patterns of cannabis use, conditions treated, and self-rated effectiveness. Results: Of the 3323 respondents included in these analyses, 2352 (73%) mainly used prescribed medical cannabis, 871 (27%) mainly used illicit. Prescribed users were significantly more likely than illicit users to have had their health condition diagnosed (OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.3, 2.2), to consume their cannabis via oral (OR = 1.9; CI 1.5, 2.4) or vaporised (OR = 5.2; CI 4.0, 6.8) routes, and to be sure of the composition of their medical cannabis (OR = 25.0; CI 16.7, 50.0). Prescribed users were significantly less likely to have used cannabis non-medically before medical use (OR = 0.6, CI 0.5, 0.7), consume cannabis via smoked routes (OR = 0.2, CI 0.1, 0.2), and to report any side effects (OR = 0.1; CI 0.1, 0.2). The most common conditions among both prescribed and illicit users were pain (37%), mental health (36%), and sleep (15%) conditions. Prescribed users were significantly more likely to use cannabis to mainly treat a pain (OR = 1.3; CI 1.1, 1.5) or sleep condition (OR = 1.4; CI 1.1, 1.7) and less likely to treat a mental health condition (OR = 0.8; CI 0.7, 0.9). There were no between-group differences in effectiveness with 97% saying medical cannabis had improved their symptoms. Conclusions: From a harm-reduction perspective there is much to recommend prescribed medical cannabis; it has fewer side-effects than illicit, is used more safely (oral or vaporised versus smoked routes), gives consumers greater certainty regarding the composition and quality of their medicine, and does not risk exposure to the criminal justice system. Of concern, however, is the apparent willingness of prescribers to prescribe for indications for which there is limited evidence of efficacy, such as mental health and sleep conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As cannabinoid-based medications gain popularity in the treatment of refractory medical conditions, it is crucial to examine the neurocognitive effects of commonly prescribed products to ensure associated safety profiles. The present study aims to investigate the acute effects of a standard 1 mL sublingual dose of CannEpil®, a medicinal cannabis oil containing 100 mg cannabidiol (CBD) and 5 mg Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on neurocognition, attention, and mood. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subjects design assessed 31 healthy participants (16 female, 15 male), aged between 21 and 58 years, over a two-week experimental protocol. Neurocognitive performance outcomes were assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, with the Profile of Mood States questionnaire, and the Bond-Lader Visual Analogue Scale used to assess subjective state and mood. CannEpil increased Total Errors in Spatial Span and Correct Latency (median) in Pattern Recognition Memory, while also increasing Efficiency Score (lower score indicates greater efficiency) relative to placebo (all p <.05). Subjective Contentedness (p <.01) and Amicability (p <.05) were also increased at around 2.5 h post dosing, relative to placebo. Drowsiness or sedative effect was reported by 23 % of participants between three to six hours post CannEpil administration. Plasma concentrations of CBD, THC, and their metabolites were not significantly correlated with any observed alterations in neurocognition, subjective state, or adverse event occurrence. An acute dose of CannEpil impairs select aspects of visuospatial working memory and delayed pattern recognition, while largely preserving mood states among healthy individuals. Intermittent reports of drowsiness and sedation underscore the inter-individual variability of medicinal cannabis effects on subjective state. (ANZCTR; ACTRN12619000932167; https://www.anzctr.org.au) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest in using cannabis products for a medical purpose in children under the age of 18 years is increasing. There are many medical cannabis products available that can include cannabidiol (CBD) or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or both. Despite many therapeutic claims, there are few rigorous studies to inform the dosing, safety, and efficacy of medical cannabis in paediatric clinical practice. This statement reviews the current evidence and provides recommendations for using medical cannabis in children. Longer-term (2-year) reports support the sustained tolerability and efficacy of cannabidiol therapy for patients with Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes. CBD-enriched cannabis extracts containing small amounts of THC have been evaluated in a small number of paediatric patients, and further research is needed to inform clinical practice guidelines. Given the widespread use of medical cannabis in Canada, paediatricians should be prepared to engage in open, ongoing discussions with families about its potential benefits and risks, and develop individualized plans that monitor efficacy, reduce harms, and mitigate drug–drug interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Disordered autonomic nervous system regulation and supraspinal pain inhibition have been repeatedly described in chronic pain. We aimed to explore the effects of δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an emerging treatment option, on autonomic nervous system and central pain modulation measures in patients with chronic pain. Methods: Twelve male patients with chronic radicular neuropathic pain participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled, single-administration trial. Low/high frequency (LF/HF) heart rate variability (HRV) ratio and conditioned pain modulation (CPM) response were measured and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at baseline and after sublingual administration of either 0.2 mg/kg oral THC or placebo. Results: THC significantly reduced the LF/HF ratio compared with placebo (interaction effect F(1,11) = 20.5; p < 0.005) and significantly improved CPM responses (interaction effect F(1,9) = 5.2; p = 0.048). The THC-induced reduction in LF/HF ratio correlated with increased functional connectivity between the rostral ventrolateral medulla and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [T(10) = 6.4, cluster p-FDR < 0.005]. Conclusions: THC shifts the autonomic balance towards increased parasympathetic tone and improves inhibitory pain mechanisms in chronic pain. The increase in vagal tone correlates with connectivity changes in higher-order regulatory brain regions, suggesting THC exerts top-down effects. These changes may reflect a normalizing effect of THC on multiple domains of supraspinal pain dysregulation. Clinical Trial Registry Number: NCT02560545. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the past two decades of cannabis legalization, the prevalence of medical cannabis (MC) use has increased and there has also been an upward trend in alcohol consumption. As less restricted cannabis laws generate more adult cannabis users, there is concern that more individuals may be simultaneously using medical cannabis with alcohol. A few studies have examined simultaneous use of medical cannabis with alcohol, but none of those studies also assessed patients' current or previous non-medical cannabis use. This paper explores simultaneous alcohol and medical cannabis use among medical cannabis patients with a specific focus on previous history of cannabis use and current non-medical cannabis use. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of MC patients (N = 319) from four dispensaries located in New York. Bivariate chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression are used to estimate the extent to which sociodemographic and other factors were associated with simultaneous use. Results: Approximately 29% of the sample engaged in simultaneous use and a large share of these users report previous (44%) or current (66%) use of cannabis for non-medical purposes. MC patients who either previously or currently use cannabis non-medicinally, men, and patients using MC to treat a pain-related condition, were significantly more likely to report simultaneous alcohol/MC use. Conclusions: Findings indicate that there may be differential risks related to alcohol/MC use, which should be considered by cannabis regulatory policies and prevention/treatment programs. If patients are using cannabis and/or alcohol to manage pain, clinicians should screen for both alcohol and cannabis use risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delta-8 THC is a federally unregulated psychoactive cannabis product rising in popularity. However, little is known regarding its retail availability. Method: We assessed Delta-8 THC retail by calling locations with alcohol, tobacco, and/or consumable hemp retail licenses in Fort Worth, Texas, before and after Texas announced ongoing litigation surrounding Delta-8 THC legality. We linked census block area deprivation index (ADI) scores (1–10; 10 = most disadvantaged) to locations. Logistic regression models examined associations between license type, ADI, ADI*license type interaction, and Delta-8 availability at each time. Results: Retail availability was 11% at Time 1 (n = 133/1,223) and 9% at Time 2 (n = 94/1,026). Alcohol (aORTime1 = 0.18, 95%CI = 0.12,0.28; aORTime2 = 0.14, 95%CI = 0.08,0.24), tobacco (aORTime1 = 15.13, 95%CI = 6.78,33.74; aORTime2 = 12.39, 95%CI = 4.97,30.91), and consumable hemp licenses (aORTime1 = 21.85, 95%CI = 7.91,60.39; aORTime2 = 22.93, 95%CI = 6.92,75.98) were associated with Delta-8 THC retail availability; ADI scores were borderline but not statistically significant. The multiplicative interaction at Time 2 indicated locations with both high ADI scores and alcohol retail licenses had higher odds of selling Delta-8 THC. Differential associations between ADI and Delta-8 THC availability were observed based on those with (b = 0.007) or without (b = −0.023) alcohol retail licenses. Conclusions: Both timepoints had similar proportions of Delta-8 THC retailers, indicating that despite the uncertain legal landscape in Texas, interest in Delta-8 did not appear to be declining. Geographic socioeconomic disparities were observed among locations with alcohol retail licenses. Future regulations may include minimum distances from specific locations (e.g., schools), particularly in more disadvantaged areas. Increasing the compliance of Texas Delta-8 THC retailers to have the required hemp license is important for surveillance and product safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Our research group is conducting three large randomized placebo-controlled trials of medicinal cannabis for cancer symptoms. All participants are invited to take part in a posttrial surveillance study. Methods: Participants were given the manufacturers dosing instructions and liberty to titrate to effect. Data were collected on symptoms (Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale [ESAS] score), perceived benefits, adverse effects, satisfaction with the product, and dose/frequency. Results: Twenty-six percent of eligible participants consented to take part in the surveillance study. Most participants changed their self-titrated dose at least once. Pain, sleep, and mood were the most frequently cited symptoms which improved. Fatigue, nausea, and cognitive impairment were the most frequently mentioned adverse effects. Conclusion: Participants felt confident making changes to their medicinal cannabis dose within the limits suggested by the manufacturer of each product. A number of benefits and adverse effects were ascribed to the product. Benefits were similar to those described in previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis‐based therapeutics have garnered increasing attention in recent years as patients seek alternative treatments for various medical conditions. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the science behind the medical use of cannabis, focusing on the medical evidence for commonly treated conditions. In addition, the review addresses the practical considerations of using cannabis as a therapeutic agent, offering insights into dosing strategies, variations in cannabinoid formulation, and individual patient responses. Precautions, adverse consequences, and drug interactions are also discussed, with a focus on patient safety and the potential risks associated with cannabis use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize the possession of cannabis. Despite the government's unwillingness to legalize recreational cannabis or promote cannabis tourism, a recreational cannabis industry fueled by tourism quickly emerged on a large scale in just a few months after decriminalization. Through the tourism worldmaking theory, the article seeks to show how cannabis tourism has taken shape in a semi-legal context following the decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand. Through a qualitative methodology combining document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and active participant observation, it is shown that following legislative changes, a recreational tourism industry has rapidly developed alongside the medical cannabis industry in which an array of cannabis products and services for tourists have emerged in the country's major tourist destinations, transforming the tourism landscape of these places. Cannabis tourism has grown rapidly despite legal restrictions and government rhetoric aimed at preventing recreational cannabis tourism. The article aims to show that after opening Pandora's box through the decriminalization of cannabis, cannabis tourism has developed on its own where many market-driven actors capitalized on this new economic opportunity following years of loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distressing symptoms are common in advanced cancer. Medicinal cannabinoids are commonly prescribed for a variety of symptoms. There is little evidence to support their use for most indications in palliative care. This study aims to assess a 1:20 delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol (THC/CBD) cannabinoid preparation in the management of symptom distress in patients with advanced cancer undergoing palliative care. Methods and design: One hundred and fifty participants will be recruited across multiple sites in Queensland, Australia. A teletrial model will facilitate the recruitment of patients outside of major metropolitan areas. The study is a pragmatic, multicenter, randomised, placebo-controlled, two-arm trial of escalating doses of an oral 1:20 THC/CBD medicinal cannabinoid preparation (10 mg THC:200 mg CBD/mL). It will compare the efficacy and safety outcomes of a titrated dose range of 2.5 mg THC/50mgCBD to 30 mg THC/600 mg CBD per day against a placebo. There is a 2-week patient-determined titration phase, to reach a dose that achieves symptom relief or intolerable side effects, with a further 2 weeks of assessment on the final dose. The primary objective is to assess the effect of escalating doses of a 1:20 THC/CBD medicinal cannabinoid preparation against placebo on change in total symptom distress score, with secondary objectives including establishing a patient-determined effective dose, the effect on sleep quality and overall quality of life. Some patients will be enrolled in a sub-study which will more rigorously evaluate the effect on sleep. Discussion: MedCan-3 is a high-quality, adequately powered, placebo-controlled trial which will help demonstrate the utility of a THC:CBD 1:20 oral medicinal cannabis product in reducing total symptom distress in this population. Secondary outcomes may lead to new hypotheses regarding medicinal cannabis' role in particular symptoms or in particular cancers. The sleep sub-study will test the feasibility of using actigraphy and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) in this cohort. This will be the first large-scale palliative care randomised clinical trial to utilise the teletrial model in Australia. If successful, this will have significant implications for trial access for rural and remote patients in Australia and internationally. Trial registration: ANZCTR ACTRN12622000083796. Protocol number 001/20. Registered on 21 January 2022. Recruitment started on 8 August 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Up to now, it is unclear whether different medicinal cannabis (MC) strains are differently efficacious across different medical conditions. In this study, the effectiveness of different MC strains was compared depending on the disease to be treated. Methods This was an online survey conducted in Germany between June 2020 and August 2020. Patients were allowed to participate only if they received a cannabis -based treatment from pharmacies in the form of cannabis flowers prescribed by a physician. Results The survey was completed by n=1,028 participants. Most participants (58%) have used MC for more than 1 year, on average, 5.9 different strains. Bedrocan (pure tetrahydrocannabinol to pure cannabidiol [THC:CBD]=22:<1) was the most frequently prescribed strain, followed by Bakerstreet (THC:CBD=19:<1) and Pedanios 22/1 (THC:CBD=22:1). The most frequent conditions MC was prescribed for were different pain disorders, psychiatric and neurological diseases, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Overall, the mean patient-reported effectiveness was 80.1% (range, 0–100%). A regression model revealed no association between the patient-reported effectiveness and the variety. Furthermore, no influence of the disease on the choice of the MC strain was detected. On average, 2.1 side effects were reported (most commonly dry mouth (19.5%), increased appetite (17.1%), and tiredness (13.0%)). However, 29% of participants did not report any side effects. Only 398 participants (38.7%) indicated that costs for MC were covered by their health insurance. Conclusions Patients self-reported very good efficacy and tolerability of MC. There was no evidence suggesting that specific MC strains are superior depending on the disease to be treated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Perceptions of cannabis as a potential medical treatment for mood and anxiety disorders have been increasing in the context of legalizations, availability, and medical cannabis programs, though current evidence predominately indicates risks and negative effects of cannabis use (CU) on mental health outcomes. This study aims to understand motivations, perceptions, effects, and patterns of CU in individuals with mood and anxiety disorders. Methods Thirty-six adult patients diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder who were currently using cannabis completed an in-depth qualitative interview on individual motivations, perceptions, experiences, effects, and patterns of their CU. The thematic analysis focused on phases of CU and sources of cannabis products and information. Results Reported motivations for initiation of CU included curiosity, peer pressure, and dissatisfaction with conventional treatments. Factors such as psychotropic effects and coping with mental health symptoms and insomnia contributed to the continuation of CU. More negative effects, including cognitive dysfunction, worsening of mood, and anxiety symptoms, were acknowledged with ongoing CU. Concerning findings included common initiation of CU before age 18, combined medical and recreational CU, rare consultation of medical professionals on CU, and potential effects and harms. Discussion Findings indicate individual complexity of motivations, perceptions, and patterns of CU in the study population. The reported potential beneficial effects of specific cannabis products should be further investigated. Findings emphasize patient-provider dialogue on both CU and conventional treatments. Information from this study can contribute to and inform the development of education, prevention, and intervention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis–drug interactions have caused significant concerns, mainly due to their role in the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme‐mediated metabolic pathway of numerous medications. A systematic review was conducted to gain an overview of the potential interactions of cannabis with different drug classes by extracting pertinent information from published study data. From the inception of the study to October 1, 2023, we performed a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, clinicaltrials.gov, and Web of Science. We included 54 out of 464 articles, and a total of 20 drug classes were identified to have interactions with medicinal cannabis. The cannabis–drug interactions were assessed and classified according to their probability and severity. The analysis revealed that antiepileptics had the most evidence of interaction with cannabis, followed by clobazam (CLB), warfarin, and tacrolimus. Generally, cannabis–drug interactions result in pharmacokinetic (PK) or pharmacodynamic (PD) changes. Therefore, careful monitoring should be performed to detect any unusual elevations in plasma levels. In addition, dose titrations or treatment withdrawal could help mitigate the adverse effects attributed to cannabis–drug interactions. Nevertheless, novel drugs are constantly emerging, and more research is needed to further identify potential interactions with cannabis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study investigated community pharmacists' level of knowledge and attitude towards medical marijuana and its association with sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 21 February 2022 to 15 November 2022. Community pharmacists working in Klang Valley were given a self-administered questionnaire. This survey instrument facilitated the collection of information about their sociodemographic attributes, training background, and knowledge and attitude concerning medical marijuana. Through rigorous analysis of the accumulated data, discernible factors correlating with the levels of knowledge and attitudes surrounding medical marijuana were identified. Results: The majority (n=149, 53.8%) of participants had low knowledge of medical marijuana. Participants with lower knowledge of medical marijuana tend to have a negative attitude toward medical marijuana. Besides that, male participants showed higher knowledge of medical marijuana than female participants. Furthermore, it was found that atheists had the most negative attitude among other religions toward medical marijuana. Conclusion: Most community pharmacists in Malaysia lack sufficient knowledge about medical marijuana. This indicates that Malaysian pharmacists are not future-ready and need to equip themselves with adequate knowledge of the indications and adverse effects of medical marijuana if it is to be legalised one day. Thus, there is a need for improved training and education of pharmacists around cannabis-based medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis use may increase the risk of self-harm, but whether legalization of cannabis is associated with changes in self-harm is unknown. We examined changes in cannabis-involvement in emergency department (ED) visits for self-harm after the liberalization of medical and legalization of non-medical cannabis in Canada. This repeated cross-sectional study used health administrative data to identify all ED visits for self-harm in individuals aged ten and older between January 2010 and December 2021. We identified self-harm ED visits with a co-diagnosis of cannabis (main exposure) or alcohol (control condition) and examined changes in rates of visits over four distinct policy periods (pre-legalization, medical liberalization, non-medical legalization with restrictions, and non-medical commercialization/COVID-19) using Poisson models. The study included 158,912 individuals with one or more self-harm ED visits, of which 7810 (4.9 %) individuals had a co-diagnosis of cannabis use and 24,761 (15.6 %) had a co-diagnosis of alcohol use. Between 2010 and 2021, the annual rate of ED visits for self-harm injuries involving cannabis per 100,000 individuals increased by 90.1 % (3.6 in 2010 to 6.9 in 2021 per 100,000 individuals), while the annual rate of self-harm injuries involving alcohol decreased by 17.3 % (168.1 in 2010 to 153.1 in 2021 per 100,000 individuals). The entire increase in visits relative to pre-legalization occurred after medical liberalization (seasonally adjusted Risk Ratio [a s RR] 1.71 95 % CI 1.09–1.15) with no further increases during the legalization with restrictions (a s RR 1.77 95%CI 1.62–1.93) or commercialization/COVID-19 periods (a s RR 1.63 95%CI 1.50–176). Cannabis-involvement in self-harm ED visits almost doubled over 12 years and may have accelerated after medical cannabis liberalization. While the results cannot determine whether cannabis is increasingly causing self-harm ED visits or whether cannabis is increasingly being used by individuals at high risk of self-harm, greater detection for cannabis use in this population and intervention may be indicated. • Of the 158,912 self-harm ED visits in Ontario, Canada between 2010 and 2021, 4.9 % involved cannabis. • The annual rate of self-harm ED visits with cannabis involvement increased by 90.1 %. • Medical cannabis liberalization was associated with these increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been a precipitous decline in authorizations for medical cannabis since non-medical cannabis was legalized in Canada in 2018. This study examines the demographic and health- and medical cannabis-related factors associated with authorization as well as the differences in medical cannabis use, side effects, and sources of medical cannabis and information by authorization status. Methods: Individuals who were taking cannabis for therapeutic purposes completed an online survey in early 2022. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of demographic and health- and medical cannabis-related variables associated with holding medical cannabis authorization. The differences in medical cannabis use, side effects, and sources of information by authorization status were determined via t-tests and chi-squared analysis. Results: A total of 5433 individuals who were currently taking cannabis for therapeutic purposes completed the study, of which 2941 (54.1%) currently held medical authorization. Individuals with authorization were more likely to be older (OR ≥ 70 years vs. < 30 years, 4.85 (95% CI, 3.49–6.76)), identify as a man (OR man vs. woman, 1.53 (1.34–1.74)), have a higher income (OR > $100,000/year vs. < $50,000 year, 1.55 (1.30–1.84)), and less likely to live in a small town (OR small town/rural vs. large city, 0.69 (0.59–0.81)). They were significantly more likely to report not experiencing any side effects (29.9% vs. 23.4%; p < 0.001), knowing the amount of cannabis they were taking (32.1% vs. 17.7%; p < 0.001), obtaining cannabis from regulated sources (74.1% vs. 47.5%; p < 0.001), and seeking information about medical cannabis from healthcare professionals (67.8% vs. 48.2%; p < 0.01) than individuals without authorization. Conclusions: These findings offer insight into the possible issues regarding equitable access to medical cannabis and how authorization may support and influence individuals in a jurisdiction where recreational cannabis is legalized, highlighting the value of a formal medical cannabis authorization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors discuss key data regarding licensed medical cannabis use in the United States, including changes in estimates of patients using medical cannabis overall, conditions for which patients obtain medical cannabis licenses, passage of new state-level medical cannabis laws, the number and type of clinicians authorizing medical cannabis use, and shifts in the number of patients based on the presence of nonmedical adult use laws. Visual Abstract. Trends in U.S. Medical Cannabis Registrations, Authorizing Clinicians, and Reasons for Use From 2020 to 2022: The authors discuss key data regarding licensed medical cannabis use in the United States, including changes in estimates of patients using medical cannabis overall, conditions for which patients obtain medical cannabis licenses, passage of new state-level medical cannabis laws, the number and type of clinicians authorizing medical cannabis use, and shifts in the number of patients based on the presence of nonmedical adult use laws. Background: As medical cannabis availability increases, up-to-date trends in medical cannabis licensure can inform clinical policy and care. Objective: To describe current trends in medical cannabis licensure in the United States. Design: Ecological study with repeated measures. Setting: Publicly available state registry data from 2020 to 2022. Participants: People with medical cannabis licenses and clinicians authorizing cannabis licenses in the United States. Measurements: Total patient volume and prevalence per 10 000 persons in the total population, symptoms or conditions qualifying patients for licensure (that is, patient-reported qualifying conditions), and number of authorizing clinicians. Results: In 2022, of 39 jurisdictions allowing medical cannabis use, 34 reported patient numbers, 19 reported patient-reported qualifying conditions, and 29 reported authorizing clinician numbers. Enrolled patients increased 33.3% from 2020 (3 099 096) to 2022 (4 132 098), with a corresponding 23.0% increase in the population prevalence of patients (175.0 per 10 000 in 2020 to 215.2 per 10 000 in 2022). However, 13 of 15 jurisdictions with nonmedical adult-use laws had decreased enrollment from 2020 to 2022. The proportion of patient-reported qualifying conditions with substantial or conclusive evidence of therapeutic value decreased from 70.4% (2020) to 53.8% (2022). Chronic pain was the most common patient-reported qualifying condition in 2022 (48.4%), followed by anxiety (14.2%) and posttraumatic stress disorder (13.0%). In 2022, the United States had 29 500 authorizing clinicians (7.7 per 1000 patients), 53.5% of whom were physicians. The most common specialties reported were internal or family medicine (63.4%), physical medicine and rehabilitation (9.1%), and anesthesia or pain (7.9%). Limitation: Missing data (for example, from California), descriptive analysis, lack of information on individual use patterns, and changing evidence base. Conclusion: Enrollment in medical cannabis programs increased overall but generally decreased in jurisdictions with nonmedical adult-use laws. Use for conditions or symptoms without a strong evidence basis continues to increase. Given these trends, more research is needed to better understand the risks and benefits of medical cannabis. Primary Funding Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children receiving palliative care have life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, which include symptoms ranging from unpleasant to intolerable suffering. We describe three diverse cases of medical marijuana within ambulatory pediatric palliative care, highlighting use for spasticity, refractory seizures, and cancer-related symptoms. Included are caregiver perspectives of their child's experience with medical marijuana. This population has high potential for positive effects from medical marijuana therapy, particularly for maximizing quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Cannabis use is increasing among older adults, with use primarily for medicinal purposes. Much of the evidence on perceptions of cannabis is derived from younger populations and current users of cannabis. The purpose of this study was to describe community-dwelling older Canadians' perceptions of cannabis effectiveness, safety and accessibility for medicinal purposes and to identify factors influencing cannabis perceptions. Methods: An online survey of older adults' perceptions, knowledge and experiences with cannabis was completed between February and September 2022. The survey was open to English-speaking and French-speaking Canadians aged 50 years and older regardless of their cannabis use history. Results: A total of 1615 Canadians completed the survey. Respondents identified primarily as men (49.7%) or women (48.5%) of Caucasian decent. The majority of participants viewed cannabis as a reasonable alternative (65.8%) and an effective (70.5%) treatment modality for symptom management in older adults. Few respondents (16.4%) felt that older adults compared to younger adults were at a higher risk of side effects and 34.5% felt that cannabis is safe to use with most medicines. Cannabis perceptions were influenced by gender, cannabis use history (prior use vs current use) and reasons for cannabis use (recreational purposes vs medicinal purposes vs both purposes). Conclusions: Older Canadians have a positive view of the role of cannabis in symptom management. The perceptions of cannabis safety and effectiveness were influenced by gender, cannabis use history and reasons for cannabis use. Healthcare professionals should leverage these perceptions when discussing cannabis with their older patient populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: People with cancer who use medicinal cannabis do so despite risks associated with limited clinical evidence, legalities, and stigma. This study investigated how Australians with cancer rationalise their medicinal cannabis use despite its risks. Methods: Ten adults (5 males and 5 females; mean age of 53.3) who used cannabis medicinally for their cancer were interviewed in 2021–2022 about how they used and accessed the substance, attitudes and beliefs underpinning their use, and conversations with others about medicinal cannabis. Results: Participants had cancer of the bowel, skin, oesophagus, stomach, thyroid, breast, and Hodgkin lymphoma for which they were receiving treatment (n = 5) or under surveillance (n = 5), with most (n = 6) encountering metastatic disease. Cannabis was used to treat a variety of cancer-related symptoms such as pain, poor sleep, and low mood. Cannabis was perceived as natural and thus less risky than pharmaceuticals. Participants legitimised their medicinal cannabis use by emphasising its natural qualities and distancing themselves from problematic users or riskier substances. Cost barriers and a lack of healthcare professional communication impeded prescription access. Similarly, participants navigated medicinal cannabis use independently due to a lack of guidance from healthcare professionals. Conclusion: Findings highlight the need for robust data regarding the harms and efficacy of medicinal cannabis and dissemination of such information among healthcare professionals and to patients who choose to use the substance. Ensuring healthcare professionals are equipped to provide non-judgmental and evidence-based guidance may mitigate potential safety and legal risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using cross-sectional baseline measurements from a longitudinal cohort study, we evaluated the perceived impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on cannabis use and emotional well-being among college students meeting cannabis use disorder (CUD) criteria (N = 150). Compared to before the pandemic, participants retrospectively reported an increase in cannabis use during the first phase of the pandemic when stay-at-home orders occurred, which was correlated with a greater number of CUD symptoms and cannabis use-related consequences since the pandemic began. Reporting greater frequency of cannabis use during the pandemic was associated with greater frequency of using amphetamine-type drugs and consumption of cannabis by dabbing since the pandemic began. There were significant differences in cannabis use-related outcomes as a function of negative emotions (e.g., feeling lonely/stressed/anxious/depressed) experienced during the pandemic. The findings elucidate the impact of the pandemic on cannabis use among college students with CUD and can inform prevention/intervention efforts in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing evidence on medical cannabis has moved its legislation forward in various countries, which has increased research on stakeholder reactions. While various studies looked at experts and users, research on public perceptions is scarce. This study aims to (1) examine the relationships between knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intention toward medical cannabis, and (2) identify and profile key segments within the general public. An online survey was conducted among 656 respondents in Belgium. Findings showed that both subjective and objective knowledge are relatively poor, while risk/benefit perceptions and behavioral intention are much more positive. Subjective and objective knowledge as well as social trust have a positive influence on benefit perceptions and a negative influence on risk perceptions. In turn, risk and benefit perceptions are key determinants of behavioral intention, but in opposite directions. Furthermore, cluster analysis identified a cautious (23% of the sample), positive (50%), and enthusiastic cluster (27%). In terms of socio-demographic profile, older and highly educated people were significantly more represented in the latter two clusters. While our study demonstrated that cannabis is well accepted for medical purposes, research is needed to further validate the relationships between knowledge, perceptions, and (intended) behavior in different settings and policy contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical cannabis use among U.S. Veterans has continued to rise. However, data on cannabis use by older Veterans is generally less available. This study aims to understand the characteristics of older Veterans who enrolled in the Medical Cannabis Patient Program in Illinois and analyze their health outcomes and co-use of cannabis and opioids using longitudinal survey data. Overall, participants reported positive outcomes for pain, sleep, and emotional problems because of cannabis use in two survey periods. Approximately, 62% and 85% respondents reported no change in memory and falls, respectively, with only 3% and 1% reporting a negative outcome for the conditions in both surveys. About 20.4% of those who indicated cannabis use only in the initial survey started to co-use opioids in the follow-up survey, while 44.1% of those who indicated the use of both substances in the initial survey reported no longer using opioids in the follow-up survey. However, these changes were not statistically significant ($$\alpha = 0.05).$$ α = 0.05). The logistic regression showed that both clinical and contextual factors affected co-use. In conclusion, older U.S. Veterans may be using cannabis to alleviate their pain and other chronic conditions. More research is needed to understand the effect of cannabis use on reducing or substituting opioids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early adversity, the loss of the inhibitory GABAergic interneuron parvalbumin, and elevated neuroinflammation are associated with depression. Individuals with a maltreatment history initiate medicinal cannabis use earlier in life than non-maltreated individuals, suggesting self-medication. Female rats underwent maternal separation (MS) between 2 and 20 days of age to model early adversity or served as colony controls. The prelimbic cortex and behavior were examined to determine whether MS alters the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), which has anti-inflammatory properties. A reduction in the CB2-associated regulatory enzyme MARCH7 leading to increased NLRP3 was observed with Western immunoblots in MS females. Immunohistochemistry with stereology quantified numbers of parvalbumin-immunoreactive cells and CB2 at 25, 40, and 100 days of age, revealing that the CB2 receptor associated with PV neurons initially increases at P25 and subsequently decreases by P40 in MS animals, with no change in controls. Confocal and triple-label microscopy suggest colocalization of these CB2 receptors to microglia wrapped around the parvalbumin neuron. Depressive-like behavior in MS animals was elevated at P40 and reduced with the CB2 agonist HU-308 or a CB2-overexpressing lentivirus microinjected into the prelimbic cortex. These results suggest that increasing CB2 expression by P40 in the prelimbic cortex prevents depressive behavior in MS female rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) is a major cause of preventable death and a growing public health concern. News media coverage of DUIC may influence public perceptions of causal factors for DUIC, risks of DUIC, and potential policy solutions. This study examines Israeli news media coverage of DUIC, and contrasts media coverage according to whether news items refer to cannabis use for medical vs. non-medical purposes. We conducted a quantitative content analysis of news articles related to driving accidents and cannabis use (N = 299) from eleven of the highest circulation newspapers in Israel between 2008 and 2020. We apply attribution theory to analyze media coverage of accidents that were linked to medical cannabis, use compared with non-medical use. News items describing DUIC in the context of non-medical (vs. medical) cannabis use were more likely to: (a) emphasize individual causes (vs. social and political); (b) describe drivers in negative terms (vs. neutral or positive); (c) refer to an increased accident risk due to cannabis use (vs. inconclusive or low risk); and (d) call for increased enforcement rather than education. Results show that Israeli news media coverage of cannabis-impaired driving varied significantly depending on whether it referred to cannabis use for medical purposes, or non-medical purposes. News media coverage may influence public perceptions of the risks of DUIC, the factors that are associated with this issue, and potential policy solutions that may reduce the prevalence of DUIC in Israel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Symptom management is a key goal of palliative cancer care. There is growing interest in the use of cannabis-based medicines or products for the management of physical and psychosocial symptoms associated with cancer or cancer treatment, including pain, nausea and vomiting, insomnia, and mood disorders. However, research on medical uses of cannabis has been limited because of legal restrictions and stigma. The goal of this review is to explore the potential role of cannabis and cannabinoids in the management of cancer-related symptoms. Limited evidence suggests that cannabis may improve cancer-related pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, appetite and chemosensory changes, insomnia, and mood disorders; however, cannabis is associated with several neuropsychiatric and systemic adverse effects and drug interactions. In this review, we discuss the potential role of cannabis and cannabinoids in the management of cancer-related symptoms. There is limited evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of cannabis-based products in treating cancer-related pain and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Regarding the role of cannabis-based products in the treatment of insomnia and mood disorders, most studies looked at these symptoms as secondary outcomes with mixed results. Cannabis-based products have adverse effects, ranging from neuropsychiatric to systemic effects to potential drug interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabis use in young adulthood has been associated with exposure to traumatic events and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Coping motives for cannabis use represent one mechanism linking PTSD with cannabis problems, yet some individuals with PTSD consider their cannabis use to be medicinal in nature. While a medicinal orientation to cannabis overlaps conceptually with coping motives, it could be associated with unique cannabis outcomes. Objectives: This study examined trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation as mediators of the association between PTSD symptoms and cannabis outcomes in young adults. Method: Data came from an online survey of 212 university students (M age = 19.41; 70.3% Women; 43.4% White) who used cannabis in the past month and endorsed a traumatic life event. Path analyses examined associations of PTSD symptoms with past month cannabis frequency and problems through medicinal cannabis orientation (i.e., number of mental health symptoms that cannabis is used to manage) and trauma-related coping motives. Results: PTSD symptoms were associated with trauma-related coping motives but not with medicinal cannabis orientation. Both trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation were uniquely associated with greater cannabis use frequency, but only trauma-related coping motives were associated with greater cannabis problems. There were significant indirect relationships from PTSD symptoms to cannabis use frequency and problems through trauma-related coping motives but not through medicinal cannabis orientation. Conclusions: Results support unique contributions of trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation to cannabis outcomes and suggest that trauma-related coping motives are specifically implicated in the link between PTSD and cannabis problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relations among attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep, and substance-related negative consequences are largely unknown. In this cross-sectional study, we examined associations among ADHD diagnosis, sleep, and alcohol-related consequences. We also evaluated the independent and interactive effects of sleep and ADHD on alcohol-related negative consequences, above and beyond levels of alcohol use. Methods: College students who drink alcohol with (n = 51) and without (n = 50) ADHD completed an assessment that included a diagnostic interview assessing ADHD, and questionnaire measures of sleep quality, substance use, and associated consequences. Analyses utilized a series of hierarchical linear regression models and explored these aims for cannabis use in a subset of participants (n = 52 participants that used cannabis). Results: College students who drink alcohol with ADHD reported significantly worse sleep quality and more alcohol-related consequences, relative to those without ADHD. When ADHD and sleep quality were included in the model, ADHD—but not sleep quality—was independently associated with alcohol consequences, but not cannabis consequences. There were no moderating effects of ADHD on the associations between sleep and substance-related consequences. Conclusions: Students who drank alcohol with ADHD may be particularly vulnerable to experiencing poor sleep and consequences from their substance use, compared to their heavy drinking peers without ADHD. Future, larger scale studies should consider longitudinal effects as well as underlying mechanisms of risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug treatment courts are challenged by the ongoing trend of marijuana legalization. In states where it is legal for adult citizens to consume marijuana for medical and recreational purposes, treatment courts need to determine whether participants should be allowed to consume or possess marijuana. By analyzing the written policies of treatment courts in states that have legalized recreational and medical marijuana, this study explores how treatment courts address such challenges. The review shows a large percentage of drug treatment courts have yet to clearly communicate their marijuana policies with the participants in writing. However, among the drug treatment courts that have established marijuana-specific policies, the vast majority of courts continue to ban the use of marijuana while a few courts allow medical marijuana use on an individual basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important public concern about the impact of recreational cannabis legalization is how it may affect adolescent cannabis use. Prior research on this issue has primarily focused on the implications of medical cannabis legalization for adolescents and used data that cover a relatively short post-legalization period. This study extends this line of research by examining the relationship between recreational cannabis legalization and adolescent cannabis use in Washington State, using the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDHU) data from 2005 to 2019. Based on a quasi-experimental research design, this study found some evidence suggesting a positive effect of recreational legalization on the prevalence of adolescent cannabis use and cannabis initiation. Findings suggest the need to create a cannabis regulatory environment that minimizes adolescent access to this drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, many current uses for cannabinoids have been described, ranging from controlling epilepsy to neuropathic pain and anxiety treatment. Medicines containing cannabinoids have been approved by both the FDA and the EMA for the control of specific diseases for which there are few alternatives. However, the molecular-level mechanism of action of cannabinoids is still poorly understood. Recently, cannabinoids have been shown to interact with autotaxin (ATX), a secreted lysophospholipase D enzyme responsible for catalyzing lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a pleiotropic growth factor that interacts with LPA receptors. In addition, a high-resolution structure of ATX in complex with THC has recently been published, accompanied by biochemical studies investigating this interaction. Due to their LPA-like structure, endocannabinoids have been shown to interact with ATX in a less potent manner. This finding opens new areas of research regarding cannabinoids and endocannabinoids, as it could establish the effect of these compounds at the molecular level, particularly in relation to inflammation, which cannot be explained by the interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors alone. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism behind the interaction between cannabinoids and endocannabinoids in humans and to fully explore the therapeutic potential of such approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To test the hypothesis that genetic and pharmacological modulation of the classical cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) receptors attenuate cancer-induced bone pain, we searched Medline, Web of Science and Scopus for relevant skeletal and non-skeletal cancer studies from inception to July 28, 2022. We identified 29 animal and 35 human studies. In mice, a meta-analysis of pooled studies showed that treatment of osteolysis-bearing males with the endocannabinoids AEA and 2-AG (mean difference [MD] − 24.83, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] − 34.89, − 14.76, p < 0.00001) or the synthetic cannabinoid (CB) agonists ACPA, WIN55,212-2, CP55,940 (CB1/2-non-selective) and AM1241 (CB2-selective) (MD − 28.73, 95%CI − 45.43, − 12.02, p = 0.0008) are associated with significant reduction in paw withdrawal frequency. Consistently, the synthetic agonists AM1241 and JWH015 (CB2-selective) increased paw withdrawal threshold (MD 0.89, 95%CI 0.79, 0.99, p < 0.00001), and ACEA (CB1-selective), AM1241 and JWH015 (CB2-selective) reduced spontaneous flinches (MD − 4.85, 95%CI − 6.74, − 2.96, p < 0. 00001) in osteolysis-bearing male mice. In rats, significant increase in paw withdrawal threshold is associated with the administration of ACEA and WIN55,212-2 (CB1/2-non-selective), JWH015 and AM1241 (CB2-selective) in osteolysis-bearing females (MD 8.18, 95%CI 6.14, 10.21, p < 0.00001), and treatment with AM1241 (CB2-selective) increased paw withdrawal thermal latency in males (mean difference [MD]: 3.94, 95%CI 2.13, 5.75, p < 0.0001), confirming the analgesic capabilities of CB1/2 ligands in rodents. In human, treatment of cancer patients with medical cannabis (standardized MD − 0.19, 95%CI − 0.35, − 0.02, p = 0.03) and the plant-derived delta-9-THC (20 mg) (MD 3.29, CI 2.24, 4.33, p < 0.00001) or its synthetic derivative NIB (4 mg) (MD 2.55, 95%CI 1.58, 3.51, p < 0.00001) are associated with reduction in pain intensity. Bioinformatics validation of KEGG, GO and MPO pathway, function and process enrichment analysis of mouse, rat and human data revealed that CB1 and CB2 receptors are enriched in a cocktail of nociceptive and sensory perception, inflammatory, immune-modulatory, and cancer pathways. Thus, we cautiously conclude that pharmacological modulators of CB1/2 receptors show promise in the treatment of cancer-induced bone pain, however further assessment of their effects on bone pain in genetically engineered animal models and cancer patients is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Canada, cannabis legalization altered the way that the public can access cannabis for medical purposes. However, Canadians still struggle with finding healthcare professionals (HCPs) who are involved in medical cannabis counselling and authorization. This raises questions about the barriers that are causing this breakdown in care. Our study explored the perceptions of primary care providers regarding cannabis in their practice. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted by Zoom with HCPs in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) to discuss their experiences with medical and non-medical cannabis in practice. Family physicians and nurse practitioners who were practicing in primary care in NL were included. The interview guide and coding template were developed using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). A thematic analysis across the TDF was then conducted. Results: Twelve participants with diverse demographic backgrounds and experience levels were interviewed. Five main themes emerged including, knowledge acquisition, internal influences, patient influences, external HCP influences, and systemic influences. The TDF domain resulting in the greatest representation of codes was environmental context and resources. Interpretation: The findings suggested that HCPs have significant knowledge gaps in authorizing medical cannabis, which limited their practice competence and confidence in this area. Referring patients to cannabis clinics, while enforcing harm-reduction strategies, was an interim option for patients to access cannabis for medical purposes. However, developing practice guidelines and educational resources were suggested as prominent facilitators to promote medical cannabis authorization within the healthcare system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research on cannabis‐based medicinal products (CBMPs) in anxiety remains inconclusive due to a paucity of high‐quality evidence. Studies indicate a bidirectional relationship between generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and sleep disruption, but it is unclear how this affects CBMP treatment outcomes. This study aims to compare the patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) of patients prescribed CBMPs for GAD, with and without impaired sleep. Methods: Changes in PROMs were recorded from baseline to 1, 3, 6, and 12 months between those with impaired or unimpaired sleep. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to compare factors associated with a clinically significant improvement in GAD‐7 at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included adverse event incidence and frequency. Results: Of the 302 patients that fit the inclusion criteria, mean GAD‐7, single‐item sleep quality, and EQ‐5D‐5L index values improved at all time points (p < 0.001). A relationship between sleep impairment and clinically significant changes in GAD‐7 at 1 and 3 months was identified (p ≤ 0.01). On multivariate regression, only baseline GAD severity was associated with an increased likelihood of observing a clinically significant improvement in anxiety (p < 0.001). Seven hundred and seven (234%) adverse events were reported by 55 (18.21%) participants. Conclusions: This study observed an association between CBMP treatment and improvements in anxiety in patients with GAD. While patients with comorbid sleep disruption had greater improvements in anxiety, the differences were not maintained in a multivariate analysis. Baseline anxiety severity may be a predictor for CBMP treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite increasing medical cannabis use, research has yet to establish whether and to what extent products containing delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) impact driving performance among patients. Stable doses of prescribed cannabinoid products during long-term treatment may alleviate clinical symptoms affecting cognitive and psychomotor performance. Aim: To examine the effects of open-label prescribed medical cannabis use on simulated driving performance among patients. Methods: In a semi-naturalistic laboratory study, 40 adults (55% male) aged between 23 and 80 years, consumed their own prescribed medical cannabis product. Driving performance outcomes including standard deviation of lateral position (SDLP), the standard deviation of speed (SDS), mean speed and steering variability were evaluated using the Forum8 driving simulator at baseline (pre-dosing), 2.5 h and 5 -h (post-dosing). Perceived driving effort (PDE) was self-reported after each drive. Oral fluid and whole blood samples were collected at multiple timepoints and analysed for THC via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: A significant main effect of time was observed for mean speed (p = 0.014) and PDE (p = 0.020), with patients displaying modest stabilisation of vehicle control, increased adherence to speed limits and reductions in PDE post-dosing, relative to baseline. SDLP (p = 0.015) and PDE (p = 0.043) were elevated for those who consumed oil relative to flower-based products. Detectable THC concentrations were observed in oral fluid at 6-h post-dosing (range = 0–24 ng/mL). Conclusions: This semi-naturalistic study suggests that the consumption of medical cannabis containing THC (1.13–39.18 mg/dose) has a negligible impact on driving performance when used as prescribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabis interest and use is increasing in the United States, yet research on its use among cancer patients is limited. Methods: Individuals with cancer completed an anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regressions estimated odds ratios (OR) between patients' demographic and clinical characteristics with cannabis-related interest, current use, and provider recommendation. Results: Participants (n = 943) were, on average, 61.7 years old. Older patients were less likely to use cannabis products (OR = 0.42, confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.26–0.69) and less likely to be interested in cannabis (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.44–0.84) than younger patients. Those with higher education were less likely to be using cannabis (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.25–0.67) and less likely to have received a provider recommendation of cannabis use than the least educated (OR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.19–0.76). Cancer spread and type were significant correlates of provider recommendation of cannabis use. Conclusions: Additional research is warranted to better understand cancer patients' motivations for cannabis use and interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2016, California transitioned from legalized medical cannabis use to adult-use. Little is known about how this policy change affected medicinal cannabis use among young adults. Objectives: To identify longitudinal groups of medicinal cannabis users and concurrent changes in health- and cannabis use-related characteristics among young adults in Los Angeles between 2014 and 2021. Methods: Cannabis users (210 patients and 156 non-patients; 34% female; ages 18–26 at baseline) were surveyed annually across six waves. Longitudinal latent class analysis derived groups from two factors – cannabis patient status and self-reported medicinal use. Trajectories of health symptoms, cannabis use motives, and cannabis use (daily/near daily use, concentrate use, and problematic use) were estimated across groups. Results: Three longitudinal latent classes emerged: Recreational Users (39.3%) – low self-reported medicinal use and low-to-decreasing patient status; Recreational Patients (40.4%) – low self-reported medicinal use and high-to-decreasing patient status; Medicinal Patients (20.3%) – high self-reported medicinal use and high-to-decreasing patient status. At baseline, Medicinal Patients had higher levels of physical health symptoms and motives than recreational groups (p <.05); both patient groups reported higher level of daily/near daily and concentrate use (p <.01). Over time, mental health symptoms increased in recreational groups (p <.05) and problematic cannabis use increased among Recreational Patients (p <.01). Conclusions: During the transition to legalized adult-use, patterns of medicinal cannabis use varied among young adults. Clinicians should monitor increases in mental health symptoms and cannabis-related problems among young adults who report recreational – but not medicinal – cannabis use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is a lack of studies on the course and effectiveness of medical cannabis in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Methods Retrospective longitudinal (18 weeks) study of n=59 outpatients with MDD, treated with medical cannabis via a telemedical platform. Previous treatment with antidepressant medication was required for inclusion into the study. Standardized data collection was carried out at entry and during monthly consultations. Severity of depression was measured on a 0–10 point rating scale. Side-effects were assessed by a checklist. Results Patients were 20–54 years old; 72.9% were male; one third reported times of regular cannabis consumption within the previous five years. Drop-out rate was 22% after 18 weeks. Mean severity of depression decreased from 6.9 points (SD 1.5) at entry to 3.8 points (2.7) at week 18 (baseline observation carried forward; 95% CI for the mean difference: 2.4 to 3.8; p<0.001). A treatment response (>50% reduction of the initial score) was seen in 50.8% at week 18. One third of patients complained about side effects, none was considered as severe. Concomitant antidepressant medication (31% of patients) was not associated with outcome. Conclusions Medical cannabis was well tolerated and dropout rate was comparable to those in clinical trials of antidepressant medication. Patients reported a clinically significant reduction of depression severity. Further research on the effectiveness of medical cannabis for MDD seems warranted. Risks of this medication, such as sustaining or inducing a cannabis use disorder, or side effects such as poor concentration, must be taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prescribed medicinal cannabis (MC) is an increasingly common prescription in Australia for treating pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Prescribed MC products generally contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and/or cannabidiol (CBD) in a variety of dose levels and forms. It is unclear whether THC and CBD products are used by patients with different characteristics and for different conditions. Objectives: To examine consumer experiences of using THC- and CBD-containing prescribed MC products to better understand how they are being used within the Australian context. Methods: We utilised data collected from an online anonymous cross-sectional survey of individuals (CAMS-20 survey), consisting of Australian residents using cannabis for therapeutic reasons. We focused on a subgroup of participants (N = 546) receiving prescribed MC products. We utilised linear, logistic, and multinomial regression modelling to analyse responses to survey questions based on the cannabinoid profile of the prescribed product. Results: Participants prescribed THC-dominant MC products were statistically more likely to be younger, male, and to prefer inhaled routes of administration than participants using CBD-dominant products who were older, female, and preferred oral routes of administration. Pain and mental health were the most common reasons for all types of prescribed MC, but were more likely to be treated with THC than CBD despite the significantly higher risk of mild to severe drowsiness, dry mouth and eye irritation. Consumer reported effectiveness of prescribed MC was very positive, particularly for THC-containing products. Consumers on opioids and antipsychotics were statistically more likely to be prescribed THC-containing products than products containing CBD only, despite the greater risk of impairment. Conclusions: This Australia-wide study found clear differences in consumer-reported experiences of prescribed THC- and CBD-containing products. Current prescriptions of these products do not always align with relevant clinical guidance. Educating prescribers around cannabinoid products is essential to ensure optimal prescribing practices and to prevent avoidable drug side effects and interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endocannabinoid system is widely expressed throughout the body and is comprised of receptors, ligands, and enzymes that maintain metabolic, immune, and reproductive homeostasis. Increasing interest in the endocannabinoid system has arisen due to these physiologic roles, policy changes leading to more widespread recreational use, and the therapeutic potential of Cannabis and phytocannabinoids. Rodents have been the primary preclinical model of focus due to their relative low cost, short gestational period, genetic manipulation strategies, and gold‐standard behavioral tests. However, the potential for lack of clinical translation to non‐human primates and humans is high as cross‐species comparisons of the endocannabinoid system have not been evaluated. To bridge this gap in knowledge, we evaluate the relative gene expression of 14 canonical and extended endocannabinoid receptors in seven peripheral organs of C57/BL6 mice, Sprague–Dawley rats, and non‐human primate rhesus macaques. Notably, we identify species‐ and organ‐specific heterogeneity in endocannabinoid receptor distribution where there is surprisingly limited overlap among the preclinical models. Importantly, we determined there were no receptors with identical expression patterns among mice (three males and two females), rats (six females), and rhesus macaques (four males). Our findings demonstrate a critical, yet previously unappreciated, contributor to challenges of rigor and reproducibility in the cannabinoid field, which has implications in hampering progress in understanding the complexity of the endocannabinoid system and development of cannabinoid‐based therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple sclerosis is the predominant autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system in adolescents and adults. Specific treatments are categorized as disease-modifying, whereas others are symptomatic treatments to alleviate painful symptoms. Currently, no singular conventional therapy is universally effective for all patients across all stages of the illness. Nevertheless, cannabinoids exhibit significant promise in their capacity for neuroprotection, anti-inflammation, and immunosuppression. This review will examine the traditional treatment for multiple sclerosis, the increasing interest in using cannabis as a treatment method, its role in protecting the nervous system and regulating the immune system, commercially available therapeutic cannabinoids, and the emerging use of cannabis in nanomedicine. In conclusion, cannabinoids exhibit potential as a disease-modifying treatment rather than merely symptomatic relief. However, further research is necessary to unveil their role and establish the safety and advancements in nano-cannabinoid medicine, offering the potential for reduced toxicity and fewer adverse effects, thereby maximizing the benefits of cannabinoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of medical Cannabis has increased in recent years due to changing legal circumstances in many countries. Approval exists only for a few neurological conditions such as rare forms of epilepsy or spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Beyond that, however, medical Cannabis is used for a wide range of neurological conditions and symptoms. In Germany, in parallel with new legislation that has simplified the prescription of medical Cannabis, an accompanying survey has been implemented for which initial data are now available. In this context, our review provides an overview of the evidence for the therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurology, the potential benefits, and side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The primary aim of this study was to assess changes in sleep‐specific health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) for those prescribed cannabis‐based medicinal products (CBMPs) for insomnia. Methods: A case series of UK patients with insomnia was analyzed. Primary outcomes were changes in the Single‐Item Sleep‐Quality Scale (SQS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7 (GAD‐7), and EQ‐5D‐5L at up to 6 months from baseline. Statistical significance was identified as a p value <.050. Results: 61 patients were included in the analysis. There was an improvement in the SQS from baseline at 1, 3, and 6 months (p <.001). There were also improvements in the EQ‐5D‐5L Index value and GAD‐7 at 1, 3, and 6 months (p <.050). There were 28 (45.9%) adverse events recorded by 8 patients (13.1%). There were no life‐threatening/disabling adverse events. Conclusion: Patients with insomnia experienced an improvement in sleep quality following the initiation of CBMPs in this medium‐term analysis. Fewer than 15% of participants reported one or more adverse events. However, due to the limitations of the study design, further investigation is required before definitive conclusions can be drawn on the efficacy of CBMPs in treating insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite evidence showing that recreational cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of psychotic disorders, this risk has not been well characterized for patients using medical cannabis. Therefore, this study assessed the risk of emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalization for psychotic disorders (the study outcome) among adult patients authorized to use medical cannabis. We performed a retrospective cohort study on patients authorized to use medical cannabis in a group of Ontario cannabis clinics between 2014 and 2019. Using clinical and health administrative data, each patient was matched by propensity scores to up to 3 population-based controls. Conditional Cox proportional hazards regressions were used to assess the risk. Among 54,006 cannabis patients matched to 161,265 controls, 39 % were aged ≤50 years, and 54 % were female. Incidence rates for psychotic disorders were 3.00/1000 person-years (95%CI: 2.72–3.32) in the cannabis group and 1.88/1000 person-years (1.75–2.03) in the control group. A significant association was observed, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.38 (95%CI: 1.19–1.60) in the total sample and 1.63 (1.40–1.91) in patients without previous psychotic disorders. The results suggest that cannabis authorization should include a benefit-risk assessment of psychotic disorders to minimize the risk of events requiring emergency attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]