MedPage Today (8/25, Firth) reports a systematic review and meta-analysis of 99 studies found that “cannabis products containing high concentrations of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the main psychoactive compound in marijuana – were linked to psychosis, schizophrenia, and addiction.” Researchers observed that “70% of the nontherapeutic studies (i.e., those not attempting to treat a medical condition or symptom) showed an unfavorable association with psychosis or schizophrenia and 75% found a relationship to cannabis use disorder (CUD).
Anxiety and depression appeared to be worsened in 53% and 41% of such studies, respectively, with even higher rates when studying healthy individuals specifically.” The researchers noted the findings complement those of prior systematic reviews in “reinforcing the conclusion that higher THC concentrations increase the risk for adverse mental health outcomes.” The review was published in Annals of Internal Medicine.
Related Links:
— MedPage Today (requires login and subscription)