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Beletsky A, Liu C, Lochte B, Samuel N, Grant I. Cannabis and Anxiety: A Critical Review. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2024; 7:19-30. [PMID: 38406383 PMCID: PMC10890807 DOI: 10.1159/000534855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cannabis has been reported to have both anxiogenic and anxiolytic effects. Habitual cannabis use has been associated with anxiety disorders (AD). The causal pathways and mechanisms underlying the association between cannabis use (CU)/cannabis use disorder (CUD) and anxiety remain unclear. We examined the literature via a systematic review to investigate the link between cannabis and anxiety. The hypotheses studied include causality, the common factor theory, and the self-medication hypothesis. Methods Critical systematic review of published literature examining the relationship of CU/CUD to AD or state-anxiety, including case reports, literature reviews, observational studies, and preclinical and clinical studies. A systematic MEDline search was conducted of terms including: [anxiety], [anxiogenic], [anxiolytic], [PTSD], [OCD], [GAD], [cannabis], [marijuana], [tetrahydrocannabinol], [THC]. Results While several case-control and cohort studies have reported no correlation between CU/CUD and AD or state anxiety (N = 5), other cross-sectional, and longitudinal studies report significant relationships (N = 20). Meta-analysis supports anxiety correlating with CU (N = 15 studies, OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.06-1.45, p = 0.006) or CUD (N = 13 studies, OR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.23-2.31, p = 0.001). PATH analysis identifies the self-medication hypothesis (N = 8) as the model that best explains the association between CU/CUD and AD or state-anxiety. Despite the support of multiple large cohort studies, causal interpretations (N = 17) are less plausible, while the common factor theory (N = 5), stress-misattribution hypothesis, and reciprocal feedback theory lack substantial evidential support. Conclusion The association between cannabis and anxiety is best explained by anxiety predisposing individuals toward CU as a method of self-medication. A causal relationship in which CU causes AD incidence is less likely despite multiple longitudinal studies suggesting so.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cherry Liu
- Riverside Community Hospital (RCH), San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Igor Grant
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Radhakrishnan R, Pries LK, Erzin G, ten Have M, de Graaf R, van Dorsselaer S, Gunther N, Bak M, Rutten BPF, van Os J, Guloksuz S. Bidirectional relationships between cannabis use, anxiety and depressive symptoms in the mediation of the association with psychotic experience: further support for an affective pathway to psychosis. Psychol Med 2023; 53:5551-5557. [PMID: 36093677 PMCID: PMC10482707 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722002756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Empirical evidence suggests that people use cannabis to ameliorate anxiety and depressive symptoms, yet cannabis also acutely worsens psychosis and affective symptoms. However, the temporal relationship between cannabis use, anxiety and depressive symptoms and psychotic experiences (PE) in longitudinal studies is unclear. This may be informed by examination of mutually mediating roles of cannabis, anxiety and depressive symptoms in the emergence of PE. METHODS Data were derived from the second longitudinal Netherlands Mental Health Survey and Incidence Study. Mediation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between cannabis use, anxiety/depressive symptoms and PE, using KHB logit in STATA while adjusting for age, sex and education status. RESULTS Cannabis use was found to mediate the relationship between preceding anxiety, depressive symptoms and later PE incidence, but the indirect contribution of cannabis use was small (for anxiety: % of total effect attributable to cannabis use = 1.00%; for depression: % of total effect attributable to cannabis use = 1.4%). Interestingly, anxiety and depressive symptoms were found to mediate the relationship between preceding cannabis use and later PE incidence to a greater degree (% of total effect attributable to anxiety = 17%; % of total effect attributable to depression = 37%). CONCLUSION This first longitudinal cohort study examining the mediational relationship between cannabis use, anxiety/depressive symptoms and PE, shows that there is a bidirectional relationship between cannabis use, anxiety/depressive symptoms and PE. However, the contribution of anxiety/depressive symptoms as a mediator was greater than that of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Radhakrishnan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lotta-Katrin Pries
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Gamze Erzin
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Ankara Diskapi Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Margreet ten Have
- Department of Epidemiology, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ron de Graaf
- Department of Epidemiology, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Saskia van Dorsselaer
- Department of Epidemiology, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nicole Gunther
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten Bak
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart P. F. Rutten
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jim van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, King's Health Partners, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Sinan Guloksuz
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Wang GS, Buttorff C, Wilks A, Schwam D, Tung G, Pacula RL. Impact of cannabis legalization on healthcare utilization for psychosis and schizophrenia in Colorado. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 104:103685. [PMID: 35429874 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency department (ED) visits involving psychosis and schizophrenia have increased at a rate exceeding population growth in the United States over the past decade. Research shows a strong dose-response relationship between chronic use of high-potency cannabis and odds of developing symptoms of psychosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of cannabis legalization on psychosis and schizophrenia-related ED visits in Colorado. METHODS Using administrative data from Colorado Hospital Association (CHA) on county-level quarterly ED visits between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2018, we applied a difference-in-difference analysis to examine how new exposure to recreational cannabis dispensaries after 2014 differentially influenced the rate of ED visits for psychosis and schizophrenia, comparing counties with no prior medical cannabis dispensary exposure to counties with low or high medical dispensary exposure. RESULTS As recreational dispensaries per 10,000 residents increased, there was no significant association with the rate of schizophrenia ED visits per capita (incidence rate ratio or IRR: 0.95, 95% CI [0.69, 1.30]) while the rate of psychosis visits increased 24% (IRR: 1.24, 95% CI [1.02, 1.49]). Counties with no previous medical dispensaries experienced larger increases in schizophrenia ED visits than counties already exposed to a low level of medical dispensaries, but this effect was not significant. Counties with low baseline medical exposure had lower increases in rates of psychosis visits than counties with high baseline medical exposure (IRR 0.83, 95% CI [0.69, 0.99]). CONCLUSIONS There was a positive association between the number of cannabis dispensaries and rates of psychosis ED visits across all counties in Colorado. Although it is unclear whether it is access to products, or the types of products that may be driving this association, our findings suggest there is a potential impact on the mental health of the local population that is observed after cannabis legalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Sam Wang
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Children's, Hospital Colorado Department of Pediatrics 13123 East 16th Ave B251 Aurora CO 80045, United States.
| | | | - Asa Wilks
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street Santa Monica, CA 90407, United States.
| | - Daniel Schwam
- RAND Corporation, 1200 S. Hayes St Arlington VA 22202, United States.
| | - Gregory Tung
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Colorado School of Public Health Department of Health Systems, Management & Policy Program for Injury Prevention, Education and Research (PIPER) Colorado School of Public Health, 13001 E. 17th Place, MS B119, United States.
| | - Rosalie Liccardo Pacula
- University of Southern California Sol Price School of Public Policy, Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics 635 Downey Way, VPD 514J, Los Angeles, CA 90089-3333, United States.
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Sideli L, Trotta G, Spinazzola E, La Cascia C, Di Forti M. Adverse effects of heavy cannabis use: even plants can harm the brain. Pain 2021; 162:S97-S104. [PMID: 32804835 PMCID: PMC8216111 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Sideli
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosceince, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Trotta
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosceince, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Edoardo Spinazzola
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosceince, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs (NeSMOS), Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina La Cascia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic, Palermo University, Palermo, Italy
| | - 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 and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Murray RM, David AS, Ajnakina O. Prevention of psychosis: moving on from the at-risk mental state to universal primary prevention. Psychol Med 2021; 51:223-227. [PMID: 32892760 PMCID: PMC7893507 DOI: 10.1017/s003329172000313x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The value of services for those with the 'At Risk Mental State for Psychosis' (ARMS) continues to be disputed. ARMS services have provided a valuable stimulus to academic research into the transition into psychosis. Furthermore, there is currently a welcome trend to transform such clinics into youth mental health services catering for the broader clientele of young people suffering from anxiety and depression, who already constitute the bulk of those seen at ARMS clinics. However, such services are never likely to make major inroads into preventing psychosis because they only reach a small proportion of those at risk. Evidence from medicine shows that avoiding exposure to factors which increase the risk of disease (e.g. poor nutrition, transmission of infection, tobacco smoking), produces greater public benefit than focussing efforts on individuals with, or about to develop, disease. We consider that the most productive approach for psychosis prevention is avoiding exposure to risk-increasing factors. The best-established risk factors for psychosis are obstetric events, childhood abuse, migration, city living, adverse life events and cannabis use. Some as city living, are likely proxies for an unknown causal factor(s) while preventing others such as childhood abuse is currently beyond our powers. The risk factor for psychosis which is most readily open to this approach is the use of cannabis. Therefore, as an initial step towards a strategy for universal primary prevention, we advocate public health campaigns to educate young people about the harms of regular use of high potency cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin M. Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Anthony S. David
- Institute of Mental Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Olesya Ajnakina
- Department of Biostatistics & Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, University of London, London, UK
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Hasin D, Walsh C. Cannabis Use, Cannabis Use Disorder, and Comorbid Psychiatric Illness: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2020; 10:E15. [PMID: 33374666 PMCID: PMC7793504 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The landscape of attitudes, legal status and patterns of use of cannabis is rapidly changing in the United States and elsewhere. Therefore, the primary aim of this narrative review is to provide a concise overview of the literature on the comorbidity of cannabis use and cannabis use disorder (CUD) with other substance use and psychiatric disorders, and to use this information to accurately guide future directions for the field. METHODS A literature review of PubMed was conducted for studies relating to cannabis use, CUD, and a co-occurring psychiatric disorder. To provide an overview of representative data, the literature review focused on national-level, population-based work from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) and National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) surveys. Considering rapidly changing cannabis laws, recent (past five-year) studies were addressed. RESULTS A strong body of literature shows associations between cannabis use and CUD with other drug use, psychosis, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. The strongest evidence of a potential causal relationship exists between cannabis use and psychotic disorders. While some evidence shows potential directionality between cannabis use and mood and anxiety disorders, results are inconsistent. Studies have established higher rates of CUD among those with personality disorders, but little about the specifics of this relationship is understood. CONCLUSIONS Although the general population in the United States increasingly perceives cannabis to be a harmless substance, empirical evidence shows that cannabis use is associated both with CUD and comorbid psychiatric illness. However, there is mixed evidence regarding the role of cannabis in the etiology, course, and prognosis of a co-occurring disorder across all categories of psychiatric disorders. Future research should expand on the existing body of literature with representative, longitudinal data, in order to better understand the acute and long-term effects of cannabis on comorbid psychiatric illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Hasin
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA;
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Claire Walsh
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA;
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7
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Murray RM, Mondelli V, Stilo SA, Trotta A, Sideli L, Ajnakina O, Ferraro L, Vassos E, Iyegbe C, Schoeler T, Bhattacharyya S, Marques TR, Dazzan P, Lopez-Morinigo J, Colizzi M, O'Connor J, Falcone MA, Quattrone D, Rodriguez V, Tripoli G, La Barbera D, La Cascia C, Alameda L, Trotta G, Morgan C, Gaughran F, David A, Di Forti M. The influence of risk factors on the onset and outcome of psychosis: What we learned from the GAP study. Schizophr Res 2020; 225:63-68. [PMID: 32037203 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2020.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The GAP multidisciplinary study carried out in South London, recruited 410 first episode of psychosis patients and 370 controls; the aim was to elucidate the multiple genetic and environmental factors influencing the onset and outcome of psychosis. The study demonstrated the risk increasing effect of adversity in childhood (especially parental loss, abuse, and bullying) on onset of psychosis especially positive symptoms. Adverse life events more proximal to onset, being from an ethnic minority, and cannabis use also played important roles; indeed, one quarter of new cases of psychosis could be attributed to use of high potency cannabis. The "jumping to conclusions" bias appeared to mediate the effect of lower IQ on vulnerability to psychosis. We confirmed that environmental factors operate on the background of polygenic risk, and that genetic and environment act together to push individuals over the threshold for manifesting the clinical disorder. The study demonstrated how biological pathways involved in the stress response (HPA axis and immune system) provide important mechanisms linking social risk factors to the development of psychotic symptoms. Further evidence implicating an immune/inflammatory component to psychosis came from our finding of complement dysregulation in FEP. Patients also showed an upregulation of the antimicrobial alpha-defensins, as well as differences in expression patterns of genes involved in NF-κB signaling and Cytokine Production. Being of African origin not only increased risk of onset but also of a more difficult course of illness. The malign effect of childhood adversity predicted a poorer outcome as did continued use of high potency cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - V Mondelli
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - S A Stilo
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - A Trotta
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - L Sideli
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - O Ajnakina
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - L Ferraro
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - E Vassos
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - C Iyegbe
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - T Schoeler
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - S Bhattacharyya
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - T R Marques
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - P Dazzan
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - J Lopez-Morinigo
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Colizzi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - J O'Connor
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Neuropsychology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - M A Falcone
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - D Quattrone
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - V Rodriguez
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - G Tripoli
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - D La Barbera
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - C La Cascia
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - L Alameda
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - G Trotta
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - C Morgan
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - F Gaughran
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A David
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Institute of Mental Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - M Di Forti
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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8
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Murray RM, Hall W. Will Legalization and Commercialization of Cannabis Use Increase the Incidence and Prevalence of Psychosis? JAMA Psychiatry 2020; 77:777-778. [PMID: 32267480 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.0339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robin M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Department of Psychosis Studies, King's College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wayne Hall
- Centre for Youth Substance Abuse Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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9
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Miller NS, Ipeku R, Oberbarnscheidt T. A Review of Cases of Marijuana and Violence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051578. [PMID: 32121373 PMCID: PMC7084484 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana is the most consumed illicit drug in the world, with over 192 million users. Due to the current legalization push of marijuana in the United States, there has been a lack of oversight regarding its public health policies, as marijuana advocates downplay the drug’s negative effects. This paper’s approach is from a public health perspective, focusing specifically on the cases of violence amongst some marijuana users. Here, we present 14 cases of violence with chronic marijuana users that highlight reoccurring consequences of: marijuana induced paranoia (exaggerated, unfounded distrust) and marijuana induced psychosis (radical personality change, loss of contact with reality). When individuals suffering from pre-existing medical conditions use marijuana in an attempt to alleviate their symptoms, ultimately this worsens their conditions over time. Although marijuana effects depend on the individual’s endocannabinoid receptors (which control behavioral functions, like aggression) and the potency level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the drug, scientifically documented links between certain marijuana users and violence do exist. Wider public awareness of the risks and side effects of marijuana, as well as a more prudent health policy, and government agency monitoring of the drug’s composition, creation, and distribution, are needed and recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman S. Miller
- CEO of Health Advocates PLLC, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
- Department of Psychiatry Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(517)-507-0407
| | - Redon Ipeku
- College of Law, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA;
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Gaughran F, Stahl D, Patel A, Ismail K, Smith S, Greenwood K, Atakan Z, Gardner-Sood P, Stringer D, Hopkins D, Lally J, Forti MD, Stubbs B, Lowe P, Arbuthnott M, Heslin M, David AS, Murray RM. A health promotion intervention to improve lifestyle choices and
health outcomes in people with psychosis: a research programme including the
IMPaCT RCT. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar08010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background
People with psychotic disorders have reduced life expectancy largely because
of physical health problems, especially cardiovascular disease, that are
complicated by the use of tobacco and cannabis.
Objectives
We set out to (1) chart lifestyle and substance use choices and the emergence
of cardiometabolic risk from the earliest presentation with psychosis, (2)
develop a pragmatic health promotion intervention integrated within the
clinical teams to improve the lifestyle choices and health outcomes of
people with psychosis and (3) evaluate the clinical effectiveness and
cost-effectiveness of that health promotion intervention.
Design
We performed a longitudinal cohort study of people presenting with their
first episode of psychosis in three mental health trusts and followed up
participants for 1 year [work package 1, physical health and substance use
measures in first episode of psychosis (PUMP)]. We used an iterative Delphi
methodology to develop and refine a modular health promotion intervention,
improving physical health and reducing substance use in psychosis (IMPaCT)
therapy, which was to be delivered by the patient’s usual care
co-ordinator and used motivational interviewing techniques and
cognitive–behavioural therapy to improve health choices of people
with psychosis (work package 2). We then conducted a multicentre, two-arm,
parallel-cluster, randomised controlled trial to determine the clinical
effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of using the intervention with people
with established psychosis (work package 3: IMPaCT randomised controlled
trial) in five UK mental health trusts. The work took place between 2008 and
2014.
Participants
All people aged between 16 and 65 years within 6 months of their first
presentation with a non-organic psychosis and who were proficient in English
were eligible for inclusion in the PUMP study. Participants in the work
package 2 training development were staff selected from a range of settings,
working with psychosis. Participants in the phase 3 Delphi consensus and
manual development comprised three expert groups of (1)
therapists/researchers recruited from the local and national community, (2)
clinicians and (3) service users, each of whom took part in two iterative
review and feedback sessions. For work package 3, IMPaCT randomised
controlled trial, care co-ordinators in participating community mental
health teams who were permanently employed and had a minimum of four
eligible patients (i.e. aged between 18 and 65 years with a diagnosis of a
psychotic disorder) on their caseload were eligible to participate. In
studies 1 and 3, patient participants were ineligible if they were pregnant
or had a major illness that would have had an impact on their metabolic
status or if they had a significant learning disability. All participants
were included in the study only after giving written confirmed consent.
Main outcome measures
Cardiometabolic risk markers, including rates of obesity and central obesity,
and levels of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and lipids, were the
main outcomes in work package 1 (PUMP), with descriptive data presented on
substance use. Our primary outcome measure for the IMPaCT randomised
controlled trial was the physical or mental health component Short Form
questionnaire-36 items quality-of-life scores at 12 months.
Results
Obesity rates rose from 18% at first presentation with psychosis to 24% by 1
year, but cardiometabolic risk was not associated with baseline lifestyle
and substance use choices. Patterns of increase in the levels of
HbA1c over the year following first presentation showed
variation by ethnic group. We recruited 104 care co-ordinators, of whom 52
(with 213 patients) were randomised to deliver IMPaCT therapy and 52 (with
193 patients) were randomised to deliver treatment as usual, in keeping with
our power calculations. Of these 406 participants with established
psychosis, 318 (78%) and 301 (74%) participants, respectively, attended the
12- and 15-month follow-ups. We found no significant effect of IMPaCT
therapy compared with treatment as usual on the physical or mental health
component Short Form questionnaire-36 items scores at either time point in
an intention-to-treat analysis [physical health score (‘d’)
–0.17 at 12 months and –0.09 at 15 months; mental health score
(‘d’) 0.03 at 12 months and –0.05 at 15 months] or on
costs. Nor did we find an effect on other cardiovascular risk indicators,
including diabetes, except in the case of high-density lipoprotein
cholesterol, which showed a trend for greater benefit with IMPaCT therapy
than with treatment as usual (treatment effect 0.085, 95% confidence
interval 0.007 to 0.16; p = 0.034).
Limitations
Follow-up in work package 1 was challenging, with 127 out of 293 participants
attending; however, there was no difference in cardiometabolic measures or
demographic factors at baseline between those who attended for follow-up and
those who did not. In work package 3, the IMPaCT randomised controlled
trial, care co-ordinators struggled to provide additional time to their
patients that was devoted to the health promotion intervention on top of
their usual clinical care contact with them.
Conclusions
Cardiometabolic risk is prominent even soon after first presentation with
psychosis and increases over time. Lifestyle choices and substance use
habits at first presentation do not predict those who will be most
cardiometabolically compromised 1 year later. Training and supervising care
co-ordinators to deliver a health promotion intervention to their own
patients on top of routine care is not effective in the NHS for improving
quality of life or reducing cardiometabolic risk.
Future work
Further work is needed to develop and evaluate effective, cost-effective and
affordable ways of preventing the emergence of and reversing existing
cardiometabolic risk indicators in people with psychosis.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN58667926.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)
Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in
full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 8, No.
1. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project
information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Gaughran
- National Psychosis Service, South London and Maudsley NHS
Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Stahl
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute
of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
| | - Anita Patel
- Anita Patel Health Economics Consulting Ltd, London, UK
- Centre for Primary Care and Public Health, Blizard Institute,
Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Khalida Ismail
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
| | - Shubulade Smith
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Science,
Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s
College London, London, UK
- Forensic Services, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation
Trust, London, UK
| | - Kathryn Greenwood
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Zerrin Atakan
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
| | - Poonam Gardner-Sood
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
| | - Dominic Stringer
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute
of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
| | - David Hopkins
- Institute of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity, King’s
Health Partners, London, UK
| | - John Lally
- National Psychosis Service, South London and Maudsley NHS
Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland,
Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marta Di Forti
- Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre,
Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s
College, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical
Neuroscience (BIONEC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
- Physiotherapy Department, South London and Maudsley NHS
Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | - Margaret Heslin
- King’s Health Economics, Health Service & Population
Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology &
Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony S David
- Institute of Mental Health, Division of Psychiatry, University
College London, London, UK
| | - Robin M Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College
London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical
Neuroscience (BIONEC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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11
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Abstract
Objective: This review discusses the relationship between cannabis use and psychotic, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders, as well as suicide. It summarizes epidemiological evidence from cross-sectional and long-term prospective studies and considers possible etiological mechanisms. Methods: Systematic reviews and methodologically robust studies in the field (from inception to February 2019) were identified using a comprehensive search of Medline, PsychINFO, and Embase and summarized using a narrative synthesis. Results: Consistent evidence, both from observational and experimental studies, has confirmed the important role of cannabis use in the initiation and persistence of psychotic disorders. The size of the effect is related to the extent of cannabis use, with greater risk for early cannabis use and use of high-potency varieties and synthetic cannabinoids. Accumulating evidence suggests that frequent cannabis use also increases the risk for mania as well as for suicide. However, the effect on depression is less clear and findings on anxiety are contradictory with only a few methodologically robust studies. Furthermore, the relationship with common mental disorders may involve reverse causality, as depression and anxiety are reported to lead to greater cannabis consumption in some studies. Pathogenetic mechanisms focus on the effect of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the main psychoactive ingredient of cannabis) interacting with genetic predisposition and perhaps other environmental risk factors. Cannabidiol (CBD), the other important ingredient of traditional cannabis, ameliorates the psychotogenic effects of THC but is absent from the high-potency varieties that are increasingly available. Conclusions: The evidence that heavy use of high-THC/low-CBD types of cannabis increases the risk of psychosis is sufficiently strong to merit public health education. Evidence of similar but smaller effects in mania and suicide is growing, but is not convincing for depression and anxiety. There is much current interest in the possibility that CBD may be therapeutically useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Sideli
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK.,Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences, and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Harriet Quigley
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Trust Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Caterina La Cascia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences, and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Robin M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK.,Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences, and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,South London and Maudsley NHS Trust Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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12
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Barakji JA, Korang SK, Feinberg J, Maagard M, Gluud C, Mathiesen O, Jakobsen JC. Cannabinoids versus placebo or no intervention for pain: protocol for a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e031574. [PMID: 31676655 PMCID: PMC6830650 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pain is a frequent clinical symptom with significant impact on the patient's well-being. Therefore, adequate pain management is of utmost importance. While cannabinoids have become a more popular alternative to traditional types of pain medication among patients, the quality of evidence supporting the use of cannabinoids has been questioned. The beneficial and harmful effects of cannabinoids in patients with pain is unknown. Accordingly, we aim to assess the efficacy, tolerability and safety of cannabinoids (herbal, plant-derived extracts and synthetic) compared with placebo or no intervention for any type of pain. METHODS AND ANALYSES We will conduct a systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis to assess the beneficial and harmful effects of cannabinoids in any dose, formulation and duration. We will accept placebo or no treatment as control interventions. We will include participants with any type of pain (acute and chronic pain, cancer-related pain, headache, neuropathic pain or any other types of pain). We will systematically search The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, Science Citation Index and BIOSIS for relevant literature. We will follow the recommendations by Cochrane and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. The risk of systematic errors (bias) and random errors (play of chance) will be assessed. The overall certainty of evidence will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval is not a requirement since no primary data will be collected. The findings of this systematic review will be submitted for peer-reviewed publication and disseminated in national and international conferences. DISCUSSION Although cannabinoids are now being used to manage different pain conditions, the evidence for the clinical effects are unclear. The present review will systematically assess the current evidence for the benefits and harms of cannabinoids to inform practice and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jehad Ahmad Barakji
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Rigshospitalet, Department 7812, Center for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steven Kwasi Korang
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Rigshospitalet, Department 7812, Center for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Pediatric Department, Holbaek Hospital, Holbaek, Denmark
| | | | - Mathias Maagard
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Rigshospitalet, Department 7812, Center for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Gluud
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Rigshospitalet, Department 7812, Center for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Janus Christian Jakobsen
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Rigshospitalet, Department 7812, Center for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cardiology Department, Holbaek Hospital, Holbaek, Denmark
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13
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Di Forti M, Morgan C, Selten JP, Lynskey M, Murray RM. High-potency cannabis and incident psychosis: correcting the causal assumption - Authors' reply. Lancet Psychiatry 2019; 6:466-467. [PMID: 31122474 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(19)30176-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Di Forti
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London; South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Craig Morgan
- Department of Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London
| | - Jean-Paul Selten
- Rivierduinen Institute for Mental Health Care, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Michael Lynskey
- Department of Addiction, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London
| | - Robin M Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London
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14
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Di Forti M, Quattrone D, Freeman TP, Tripoli G, Gayer-Anderson C, Quigley H, Rodriguez V, Jongsma HE, Ferraro L, La Cascia C, La Barbera D, Tarricone I, Berardi D, Szöke A, Arango C, Tortelli A, Velthorst E, Bernardo M, Del-Ben CM, Menezes PR, Selten JP, Jones PB, Kirkbride JB, Rutten BP, de Haan L, Sham PC, van Os J, Lewis CM, Lynskey M, Morgan C, Murray RM. The contribution of cannabis use to variation in the incidence of psychotic disorder across Europe (EU-GEI): a multicentre case-control study. Lancet Psychiatry 2019; 6:427-436. [PMID: 30902669 PMCID: PMC7646282 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(19)30048-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 434] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use is associated with increased risk of later psychotic disorder but whether it affects incidence of the disorder remains unclear. We aimed to identify patterns of cannabis use with the strongest effect on odds of psychotic disorder across Europe and explore whether differences in such patterns contribute to variations in the incidence rates of psychotic disorder. METHODS We included patients aged 18-64 years who presented to psychiatric services in 11 sites across Europe and Brazil with first-episode psychosis and recruited controls representative of the local populations. We applied adjusted logistic regression models to the data to estimate which patterns of cannabis use carried the highest odds for psychotic disorder. Using Europe-wide and national data on the expected concentration of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the different types of cannabis available across the sites, we divided the types of cannabis used by participants into two categories: low potency (THC <10%) and high potency (THC ≥10%). Assuming causality, we calculated the population attributable fractions (PAFs) for the patterns of cannabis use associated with the highest odds of psychosis and the correlation between such patterns and the incidence rates for psychotic disorder across the study sites. FINDINGS Between May 1, 2010, and April 1, 2015, we obtained data from 901 patients with first-episode psychosis across 11 sites and 1237 population controls from those same sites. Daily cannabis use was associated with increased odds of psychotic disorder compared with never users (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3·2, 95% CI 2·2-4·1), increasing to nearly five-times increased odds for daily use of high-potency types of cannabis (4·8, 2·5-6·3). The PAFs calculated indicated that if high-potency cannabis were no longer available, 12·2% (95% CI 3·0-16·1) of cases of first-episode psychosis could be prevented across the 11 sites, rising to 30·3% (15·2-40·0) in London and 50·3% (27·4-66·0) in Amsterdam. The adjusted incident rates for psychotic disorder were positively correlated with the prevalence in controls across the 11 sites of use of high-potency cannabis (r = 0·7; p=0·0286) and daily use (r = 0·8; p=0·0109). INTERPRETATION Differences in frequency of daily cannabis use and in use of high-potency cannabis contributed to the striking variation in the incidence of psychotic disorder across the 11 studied sites. Given the increasing availability of high-potency cannabis, this has important implications for public health. FUNDING SOURCE Medical Research Council, the European Community's Seventh Framework Program grant, São Paulo Research Foundation, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London and the NIHR BRC at University College London, Wellcome Trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Di Forti
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Diego Quattrone
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Giada Tripoli
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Gayer-Anderson
- Department of Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Harriet Quigley
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Rodriguez
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah E Jongsma
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Psylife Group, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laura Ferraro
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina La Cascia
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniele La Barbera
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tarricone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, Psychiatry Unit, Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Domenico Berardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, Psychiatry Unit, Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrei Szöke
- INSERM U955, Equipe 15, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Créteil, Paris, France
| | - Celso Arango
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Eva Velthorst
- Department of Psychiatry, Early Psychosis Section, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Miguel Bernardo
- Barcelona Clinic Schizophrenia Unit, Neuroscience Institute, Hospital clinic, Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Marta Del-Ben
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Behaviour, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo Rossi Menezes
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jean-Paul Selten
- Rivierduinen Institute for Mental Health Care, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Peter B Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; CAMEO Early Intervention Service, Cambridgeshire & Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - James B Kirkbride
- Psylife Group, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Bart Pf Rutten
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, South Limburg Mental Health Research and Teaching Network, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe de Haan
- Department of Psychiatry, Early Psychosis Section, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pak C Sham
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; Centre for Genomic Sciences, Li KaShing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jim van Os
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, Utrecht University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cathryn M Lewis
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, UK
| | - Michael Lynskey
- Department of Addiction, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Craig Morgan
- Department of Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Robin M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Mental Health Foundation Trust, London, UK
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15
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Abstract
Cannabis use is more common among people with severe mental illness than in the general population. It has detrimental effects on the course of the illness, physical health and social life of users, as well as being a financial burden on health services. It is important to understand why some people with severe mental illness continue to use cannabis, despite experiencing its effects on their condition. This article reviews research on the scale of cannabis use by such patients, the effects on the course of their illness, possible reasons to explain why they use it, and how they can be assessed in clinical settings, as well as providing some assessment tools to measure various characteristics related to cannabis use.
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16
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Hamilton I. Cannabis, psychosis and schizophrenia: unravelling a complex interaction. Addiction 2017; 112:1653-1657. [PMID: 28419656 DOI: 10.1111/add.13826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between cannabis and psychosis and schizophrenia has tested the field of addiction for decades, and in some ways serves as measure of our ability to provide a credible contribution to public health. As cannabis is used widely, many people are interested in the risks the drug poses to mental health. This paper focuses upon a seminal study examining this, the trajectory of subsequent research findings and what this has meant for understanding and communicating risk factor information. These studies provided evidence of a dose-response relationship between cannabis and psychosis, and that for those individuals with schizophrenia cannabis exacerbated their symptoms. The findings fit with a multi-causal model in which vulnerability interacts with a precipitating agent to produce a disease outcome. Even though this is a common model in epidemiology, it has proved difficult to communicate it in this case. This may be because at a population level the increased risk is weak and the vulnerabilities relatively rare. It may also be because people bring strongly held preconceptions to interpreting a complex multi-causal phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Hamilton
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, UK
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17
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Murray RM, Englund A, Abi-Dargham A, Lewis DA, Di Forti M, Davies C, Sherif M, McGuire P, D'Souza DC. Cannabis-associated psychosis: Neural substrate and clinical impact. Neuropharmacology 2017. [PMID: 28634109 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Prospective epidemiological studies have consistently demonstrated that cannabis use is associated with an increased subsequent risk of both psychotic symptoms and schizophrenia-like psychoses. Early onset of use, daily use of high-potency cannabis, and synthetic cannabinoids carry the greatest risk. The risk-increasing effects are not explained by shared genetic predisposition between schizophrenia and cannabis use. Experimental studies in healthy humans show that cannabis and its active ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can produce transient, dose-dependent, psychotic symptoms, as well as an array of psychosis-relevant behavioral, cognitive and psychophysiological effects; the psychotogenic effects can be ameliorated by cannabidiol (CBD). Findings from structural imaging studies in cannabis users have been inconsistent but functional MRI studies have linked the psychotomimetic and cognitive effects of THC to activation in brain regions implicated in psychosis. Human PET studies have shown that acute administration of THC weakly releases dopamine in the striatum but that chronic users are characterised by low striatal dopamine. We are beginning to understand how cannabis use impacts on the endocannabinoid system but there is much still to learn about the biological mechanisms underlying how cannabis increases risk of psychosis. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "A New Dawn in Cannabinoid Neurobiology".
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK.
| | - A Englund
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - A Abi-Dargham
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, New York, USA
| | - D A Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburg, PA, USA
| | - M Di Forti
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - C Davies
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - M Sherif
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA
| | - P McGuire
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - D C D'Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA
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18
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Suryadevara U, Bruijnzeel DM, Nuthi M, Jagnarine DA, Tandon R, Bruijnzeel AW. Pros and Cons of Medical Cannabis use by People with Chronic Brain Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2017; 15:800-814. [PMID: 27804883 PMCID: PMC5652027 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x14666161101095325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world and there is growing concern about the mental health effects of cannabis use. These concerns are at least partly due to the strong increase in recreational and medical cannabis use and the rise in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels. Cannabis is widely used to self-medicate by older people and people with brain disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. OBJECTIVE This review provides an overview of the perceived benefits and adverse mental health effects of cannabis use in people with ALS, MS, AD, PD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. RESULTS The reviewed studies indicate that cannabis use diminishes some symptoms associated with these disorders. Cannabis use decreases pain and spasticity in people with MS, decreases tremor, rigidity, and pain in people with PD, and improves the quality of life of ALS patients by improving appetite, and decreasing pain and spasticity. Cannabis use is more common among people with schizophrenia than healthy controls. Cannabis use is a risk factor for schizophrenia which increases positive symptoms in schizophrenia patients and diminishes negative symptoms. Cannabis use worsens bipolar disorder and there is no evidence that bipolar patients derive any benefit from cannabis. In late stage Alzheimer's patients, cannabis products may improve food intake, sleep quality, and diminish agitation. CONCLUSION Cannabis use diminishes some of the adverse effects of neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, chronic cannabis use may lead to cognitive impairments and dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uma Suryadevara
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Meena Nuthi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Rajiv Tandon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Adriaan W. Bruijnzeel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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19
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Murray RM, Quigley H, Quattrone D, Englund A, Di Forti M. Traditional marijuana, high-potency cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids: increasing risk for psychosis. World Psychiatry 2016; 15:195-204. [PMID: 27717258 PMCID: PMC5032490 DOI: 10.1002/wps.20341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological evidence demonstrates that cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of psychotic outcomes, and confirms a dose-response relationship between the level of use and the risk of later psychosis. High-potency cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids carry the greatest risk. Experimental administration of tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient of cannabis, induces transient psychosis in normal subjects, but this effect can be ameliorated by co-administration of cannabidiol. This latter is a constituent of traditional hashish, but is largely absent from modern high-potency forms of cannabis. Argument continues over the extent to which genetic predisposition is correlated to, or interacts with, cannabis use, and what proportion of psychosis could be prevented by minimizing heavy use. As yet, there is not convincing evidence that cannabis use increases risk of other psychiatric disorders, but there are no such doubts concerning its detrimental effect on cognitive function. All of the negative aspects are magnified if use starts in early adolescence. Irrespective of whether use of cannabis is decriminalized or legalized, the evidence that it is a component cause of psychosis is now sufficient for public health messages outlining the risk, especially of regular use of high-potency cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin M. Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's CollegeDe Crespigny ParkLondonSE5 8AFUK
| | - Harriet Quigley
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's CollegeDe Crespigny ParkLondonSE5 8AFUK
| | - Diego Quattrone
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's CollegeDe Crespigny ParkLondonSE5 8AFUK
| | - Amir Englund
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's CollegeDe Crespigny ParkLondonSE5 8AFUK
| | - Marta Di Forti
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's CollegeDe Crespigny ParkLondonSE5 8AFUK
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Kelley ME, Wan CR, Broussard B, Crisafio A, Cristofaro S, Johnson S, Reed TA, Amar P, Kaslow NJ, Walker EF, Compton MT. Marijuana use in the immediate 5-year premorbid period is associated with increased risk of onset of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. Schizophr Res 2016; 171:62-7. [PMID: 26785806 PMCID: PMC4929616 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2016.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Several studies suggest that adolescent marijuana use predicts earlier age at onset of schizophrenia, which is a crucial prognostic indicator. Yet, many investigations have not adequately established a clear temporal relationship between the use and onset. METHODS We enrolled 247 first-episode psychosis patients from six psychiatric units and collected data on lifetime marijuana/alcohol/tobacco use, and ages at onset of prodrome and psychosis in 210 of these patients. Cox regression (survival analysis) was employed to quantify hazard ratios (HRs) for effects of diverse premorbid use variables on psychosis onset. RESULTS Escalation of premorbid use in the 5years prior to onset was highly predictive of an increased risk for onset (e.g., increasing from no use to daily use, HR=3.6, p<0.0005). Through the analysis of time-specific measures, we determined that daily use approximately doubled the rate of onset (HR=2.2, p<0.0005), even after controlling for simultaneous alcohol/tobacco use. Building on previous studies, we were able to determine that cumulative marijuana exposure was associated with an increased rate of onset of psychosis (p=0.007), independent of gender and family history, and this is possibly the reason for age at initiation of marijuana use also being associated with rate of onset in this cohort. CONCLUSIONS These data provide evidence of a clear temporal relationship between escalations in use in the five years pre-onset and an increased rate of onset, demonstrate that the strength of the association is similar pre- and post-onset of prodromal symptoms, and determine that early adult use may be just as important as adolescent use in these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E. Kelley
- Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Claire Ramsay Wan
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Physician Assistant Program, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Beth Broussard
- Lenox Hill Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, New York, New York
| | - Anthony Crisafio
- The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - Sarah Cristofaro
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Stephanie Johnson
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Thomas A. Reed
- The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - Patrick Amar
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nadine J. Kaslow
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Elaine F. Walker
- Emory University College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michael T. Compton
- Lenox Hill Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, New York, New York,Hofstra North Shore–LIJ School of Medicine at Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York,Corresponding Author: Michael T. Compton, M.D., M.P.H., Lenox Hill Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, 111 E. 77th Street, New York, NY 10075. Tel: 212-434-3215, Fax: 212-434-3306,
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Ayhan Y, McFarland R, Pletnikov MV. Animal models of gene-environment interaction in schizophrenia: A dimensional perspective. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 136:1-27. [PMID: 26510407 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia has long been considered as a disorder with multifactorial origins. Recent discoveries have advanced our understanding of the genetic architecture of the disease. However, even with the increase of identified risk variants, heritability estimates suggest an important contribution of non-genetic factors. Various environmental risk factors have been proposed to play a role in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia. These include season of birth, maternal infections, obstetric complications, adverse events at early childhood, and drug abuse. Despite the progress in identification of genetic and environmental risk factors, we still have a limited understanding of the mechanisms whereby gene-environment interactions (G × E) operate in schizophrenia and psychoses at large. In this review we provide a critical analysis of current animal models of G × E relevant to psychotic disorders and propose that dimensional perspective will advance our understanding of the complex mechanisms of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yavuz Ayhan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA; Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Turkey
| | - Ross McFarland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Mikhail V Pletnikov
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA; Solomon H Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA.
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Di Forti M, Marconi A, Carra E, Fraietta S, Trotta A, Bonomo M, Bianconi F, Gardner-Sood P, O'Connor J, Russo M, Stilo SA, Marques TR, Mondelli V, Dazzan P, Pariante C, David AS, Gaughran F, Atakan Z, Iyegbe C, Powell J, Morgan C, Lynskey M, Murray RM. Proportion of patients in south London with first-episode psychosis attributable to use of high potency cannabis: a case-control study. Lancet Psychiatry 2015; 2:233-8. [PMID: 26359901 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(14)00117-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 348] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of individuals having adverse effects from drug use (eg, alcohol) generally depends on the frequency of use and potency of the drug used. We aimed to investigate how frequent use of skunk-like (high-potency) cannabis in south London affected the association between cannabis and psychotic disorders. METHODS We applied adjusted logistic regression models to data from patients aged 18-65 years presenting to South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust with first-episode psychosis and population controls recruited from the same area of south London (UK) to estimate the effect of the frequency of use, and type of cannabis used on the risk of psychotic disorders. We then calculated the proportion of new cases of psychosis attributable to different types of cannabis use in south London. FINDINGS Between May 1, 2005, and May 31, 2011, we obtained data from 410 patients with first-episode psychosis and 370 population controls. The risk of individuals having a psychotic disorder showed a roughly three-times increase in users of skunk-like cannabis compared with those who never used cannabis (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2·92, 95% CI 1·52-3·45, p=0·001). Use of skunk-like cannabis every day conferred the highest risk of psychotic disorders compared with no use of cannabis (adjusted OR 5·4, 95% CI 2·81-11·31, p=0·002). The population attributable fraction of first-episode psychosis for skunk use for our geographical area was 24% (95% CI 17-31), possibly because of the high prevalence of use of high-potency cannabis (218 [53%] of 410 patients) in our study. INTERPRETATION The ready availability of high potency cannabis in south London might have resulted in a greater proportion of first onset psychosis cases being attributed to cannabis use than in previous studies. FUNDING UK National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Specialist Biomedical Research Centre for Mental Health, SLaM and the Institute of Psychiatry at King's College London, Psychiatry Research Trust, Maudsley Charity Research Fund, and th European Community's Seventh Framework Program grant (agreement No. HEALTH-F2-2009-241909 [Project EU-GEI]).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Di Forti
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK.
| | - Arianna Marconi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Elena Carra
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Sara Fraietta
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Antonella Trotta
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Matteo Bonomo
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Francesca Bianconi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Poonam Gardner-Sood
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Jennifer O'Connor
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Manuela Russo
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simona A Stilo
- Department of Health Services and Public Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Tiago Reis Marques
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Valeria Mondelli
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Paola Dazzan
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Carmine Pariante
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony S David
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Gaughran
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Zerrin Atakan
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Conrad Iyegbe
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - John Powell
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Craig Morgan
- Department of Health Services and Public Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Lynskey
- Department of Addiction, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Robin M Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, London, UK
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Hall W. What has research over the past two decades revealed about the adverse health effects of recreational cannabis use? Addiction 2015; 110:19-35. [PMID: 25287883 DOI: 10.1111/add.12703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 337] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To examine changes in the evidence on the adverse health effects of cannabis since 1993. METHODS A comparison of the evidence in 1993 with the evidence and interpretation of the same health outcomes in 2013. RESULTS Research in the past 20 years has shown that driving while cannabis-impaired approximately doubles car crash risk and that around one in 10 regular cannabis users develop dependence. Regular cannabis use in adolescence approximately doubles the risks of early school-leaving and of cognitive impairment and psychoses in adulthood. Regular cannabis use in adolescence is also associated strongly with the use of other illicit drugs. These associations persist after controlling for plausible confounding variables in longitudinal studies. This suggests that cannabis use is a contributory cause of these outcomes but some researchers still argue that these relationships are explained by shared causes or risk factors. Cannabis smoking probably increases cardiovascular disease risk in middle-aged adults but its effects on respiratory function and respiratory cancer remain unclear, because most cannabis smokers have smoked or still smoke tobacco. CONCLUSIONS The epidemiological literature in the past 20 years shows that cannabis use increases the risk of accidents and can produce dependence, and that there are consistent associations between regular cannabis use and poor psychosocial outcomes and mental health in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Hall
- The University of Queensland Centre for Youth Substance Abuse Research and The UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Herston, Australia; The National Addiction Centre, Kings College London, London, UK; National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia
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Lubman DI, Cheetham A, Yücel M. Cannabis and adolescent brain development. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 148:1-16. [PMID: 25460036 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Heavy cannabis use has been frequently associated with increased rates of mental illness and cognitive impairment, particularly amongst adolescent users. However, the neurobiological processes that underlie these associations are still not well understood. In this review, we discuss the findings of studies examining the acute and chronic effects of cannabis use on the brain, with a particular focus on the impact of commencing use during adolescence. Accumulating evidence from both animal and human studies suggests that regular heavy use during this period is associated with more severe and persistent negative outcomes than use during adulthood, suggesting that the adolescent brain may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of cannabis exposure. As the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in brain development, it is plausible that prolonged use during adolescence results in a disruption in the normative neuromaturational processes that occur during this period. We identify synaptic pruning and white matter development as two processes that may be adversely impacted by cannabis exposure during adolescence. Potentially, alterations in these processes may underlie the cognitive and emotional deficits that have been associated with regular use commencing during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Ali Cheetham
- Turning Point, Eastern Health and Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Victoria, Australia; Monash Clinical & Imaging Neuroscience, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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26
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Gaughran F, Stahl D, Ismail K, Atakan Z, Lally J, Gardner-Sood P, Patel A, David A, Hopkins D, Harries B, Lowe P, Orr D, Arbuthnot M, Murray RM, Greenwood KE, Smith S. Improving physical health and reducing substance use in psychosis--randomised control trial (IMPACT RCT): study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry 2013; 13:263. [PMID: 24131496 PMCID: PMC3852764 DOI: 10.1186/1471-244x-13-263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is increased in individuals with severe mental illnesses.We set out to establish a multicentre, two arm, parallel cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a health promotion intervention (HPI), IMPACT Therapy. The patient-tailored IMPACT Therapy aims to target one or more health behaviours from a pre-defined list that includes cannabis use; alcohol use; other substance use; cigarette smoking; exercise; diet and diabetic control, prioritising those identified as problematic by the patient, taking a motivational interviewing and CBT approach. METHODS Impact therapy will be delivered by care coordinators in the community to the treatment group and will be compared to treatment as usual (TAU). The main hypothesis is that the addition of IMPACT Therapy (HPI) to TAU will be more effective than TAU alone in improving patients' quality of life as measured by the Short Form-36, including mental health and physical health subscales on completion of the intervention at 12 months post randomisation. A subsidiary hypothesis will be that addition of IMPACT Therapy (HPI) will be more cost-effective than TAU alone in improving health in people with SMI 12 months from baseline. The IMPACT therapy patient groups' improvement in quality of life, as well as its cost effectiveness, is hypothesised to be maintained at 15 months. Outcomes will be analyzed on an intention-to-treat (ITT) basis. DISCUSSION The results of the trial will provide information about the effectiveness of the IMPACT therapy programme in supporting community mental health teams to address physical comorbidity in severe mental illness. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN58667926.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Gaughran
- National Psychosis Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK.
| | - Daniel Stahl
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Khalida Ismail
- Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK,King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Zerrin Atakan
- Section of Neuroimaging, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - John Lally
- National Psychosis Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK,Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Poonam Gardner-Sood
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Anita Patel
- Centre for the Economics of Mental and Physical Health (CEMPH), Institute of Psychiatry at King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony David
- Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - David Hopkins
- Division of Ambulatory Care & Local Networks, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK,King’s College London School of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Bee Harries
- Department of Mental Health Sciences, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, UK
| | - Philippa Lowe
- Department of Mental Health Sciences, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, UK
| | - Diana Orr
- Department of Mental Health Sciences, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, UK
| | - Maurice Arbuthnot
- Department of Mental Health Sciences, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, UK
| | - Robin M Murray
- National Psychosis Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK,Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Kathryn E Greenwood
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK,Early Intervention in Psychosis Service, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, West Sussex, UK
| | - Shubulade Smith
- Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Hall W, Degenhardt L. The adverse health effects of chronic cannabis use. Drug Test Anal 2013; 6:39-45. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.1506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Revised: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Hall
- The University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Site; Herston QLD 4029 Australia
- National Addiction Centre; Kings College London; London WC2R 2LS United Kingdom
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; University of Melbourne; Melbourne VIC 3010 Australia
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Kirkbride JB, Errazuriz A, Croudace TJ, Morgan C, Jackson D, Boydell J, Murray RM, Jones PB. Incidence of schizophrenia and other psychoses in England, 1950-2009: a systematic review and meta-analyses. PLoS One 2012; 7:e31660. [PMID: 22457710 PMCID: PMC3310436 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 330] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We conducted a systematic review of incidence rates in England over a sixty-year period to determine the extent to which rates varied along accepted (age, sex) and less-accepted epidemiological gradients (ethnicity, migration and place of birth and upbringing, time). OBJECTIVES To determine variation in incidence of several psychotic disorders as above. DATA SOURCES Published and grey literature searches (MEDLINE, PSycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, ASSIA, HMIC), and identification of unpublished data through bibliographic searches and author communication. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Published 1950-2009; conducted wholly or partially in England; original data on incidence of non-organic adult-onset psychosis or one or more factor(s) pertaining to incidence. PARTICIPANTS People, 16-64 years, with first -onset psychosis, including non-affective psychoses, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychotic depression and substance-induced psychosis. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS Title, abstract and full-text review by two independent raters to identify suitable citations. Data were extracted to a standardized extraction form. Descriptive appraisals of variation in rates, including tables and forest plots, and where suitable, random-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions to test specific hypotheses; rate heterogeneity was assessed by the I²-statistic. RESULTS 83 citations met inclusion. Pooled incidence of all psychoses (N = 9) was 31.7 per 100,000 person-years (95%CI: 24.6-40.9), 23.2 (95%CI: 18.3-29.5) for non-affective psychoses (N = 8), 15.2 (95%CI: 11.9-19.5) for schizophrenia (N = 15) and 12.4 (95%CI: 9.0-17.1) for affective psychoses (N = 7). This masked rate heterogeneity (I²: 0.54-0.97), possibly explained by socio-environmental factors; our review confirmed (via meta-regression) the typical age-sex interaction in psychosis risk, including secondary peak onset in women after 45 years. Rates of most disorders were elevated in several ethnic minority groups compared with the white (British) population. For example, for schizophrenia: black Caribbean (pooled RR: 5.6; 95%CI: 3.4-9.2; N = 5), black African (pooled RR: 4.7; 95%CI: 3.3-6.8; N = 5) and South Asian groups in England (pooled RR: 2.4; 95%CI: 1.3-4.5; N = 3). We found no evidence to support an overall change in the incidence of psychotic disorder over time, though diagnostic shifts (away from schizophrenia) were reported. LIMITATIONS Incidence studies were predominantly cross-sectional, limiting causal inference. Heterogeneity, while evidencing important variation, suggested pooled estimates require interpretation alongside our descriptive systematic results. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS OF KEY FINDINGS Incidence of psychotic disorders varied markedly by age, sex, place and migration status/ethnicity. Stable incidence over time, together with a robust socio-environmental epidemiology, provides a platform for developing prediction models for health service planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- James B Kirkbride
- Department of Psychiatry, Herchel Smith Building for Brain and Mind Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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Every-Palmer S. Synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 and psychosis: an explorative study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2011; 117:152-7. [PMID: 21316162 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2011.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Revised: 01/06/2011] [Accepted: 01/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aroma, Spice, K2 and Dream are examples of a class of new and increasingly popular recreational drugs. Ostensibly branded "herbal incense", they have been intentionally adulterated with synthetic cannabinoids such as JWH-018 in order to confer on them cannabimimetic psychoactive properties while circumventing drug legislation. JWH-018 is a potent cannabinoid receptor agonist. Little is known about its pharmacology and toxicology in humans. This is the first research considering the effects of JWH-018 on a psychiatric population and exploring the relationship between JWH-018 and psychotic symptoms. METHOD This paper presents the results of semi-structured interviews regarding the use and effects of JWH-018 in 15 patients with serious mental illness in a New Zealand forensic and rehabilitative service. RESULTS All 15 subjects were familiar with a locally available JWH-018 containing product called "Aroma" and 86% reported having used it. They credited the product's potent psychoactivity, legality, ready availability and non-detection in drug testing as reasons for its popularity, with most reporting it had replaced cannabis as their drug of choice. Most patients had assumed the product was "natural" and "safe". Anxiety and psychotic symptoms were common after use, with 69% of users experiencing or exhibiting symptoms consistent with psychotic relapse after smoking JWH-018. Although psychological side effects were common, no one reported becoming physically unwell after using JWH-018. Three subjects described developing some tolerance to the product, but no one reported withdrawal symptoms. CONCLUSION It seems likely that JWH-018 can precipitate psychosis in vulnerable individuals. People with risk factors for psychosis should be counseled against using synthetic cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Every-Palmer
- Te Korowai-Whāriki, A Capital and Coast District Health Board Service, Ratonga Rua O Porirua, Regional Forensic Service, Raiha Street, P O Box 50-233 Porirua, New Zealand. Susanna
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Makkos Z, Fejes L, Inczédy-Farkas G, Kassai-Farkas A, Faludi G, Lazary J. Psychopharmacological comparison of schizophrenia spectrum disorder with and without cannabis dependency. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2011; 35:212-7. [PMID: 21087649 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2010.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2010] [Revised: 10/02/2010] [Accepted: 11/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although incidence of schizophrenia is higher among cannabis users and marijuana is the most common abused drug by adolescents, etiological linkage between schizophrenia and cannabis use is still not clarified. Clinical experiences suggest that regular cannabis user can show similar psychotic episode to schizophrenic disorders but it is still unclear if chronic cannabis use with schizophreniform disorder is a distinct entity requiring special therapy or it can be treated as classical schizophrenia. There are no data available on the comparison of pharmacotherapy between schizophreniform patients with and without cannabis use. METHODS Clinical data of 85 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder were analyzed retrospectively. Cannabis use was not reported by 43 persons (Cnbs0 subgroup) and 42 patients used regularly cannabis during at least 1 year (Cnbs1 subgroup). Comparison of anamnesis, family history, social-demographic condition, positive and negative symptoms, acute and long-term therapies recorded by clinical interviews was performed with chi square tests, logistic binary regression and t-tests using SPSS 13.0 for Windows software. RESULTS Men were over-represented in cannabis dependent group while mean age was lower among them compared to Cnbs0 subgroup. Prevalence of suicidal attempt was increased in men without cannabis use (OR = 5.25, p = 0.016). Patients without cannabis use spent more time in hospital (p = 0.026) and smoking was more frequent among them (OR = 1.36, p = 0.047). The chance to get olanzapine for acute therapy and aripiprazol for long term therapy was more than two fold in Cnbs1 subgroup (OR = 2.66, OR = 3.67, respectively). However, aripiprazol was used for acute therapy with significantly lower risk in Cnbs1 subgroup (OR = 0.47, p = 0.023). Olanzapine was administered for long term therapy in a higher dose to Cnbs0 patients (p = 0.040). Also higher dose of risperidon LAI was used in women without cannabis dependency compared to women of Cnbs1 subgroup (p=0.020). Positive and negative symptoms and family history did not differ significantly between the two subgroups. CONCLUSION Although symptom profile was similar, hospitalization time, suicidal anamnesis, smoking habit and also dosage, intensity and lasting of therapy were different between the two subgroups. Further prospective studies are required for the investigation of the clinical and molecular background of this discrepancy in order to determine a relevant protocol of prevention and treatment of the chronic cannabis use related psychotic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Makkos
- 1st Department of Psychiatry, Nyírő Gyula Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
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Rais M, van Haren NEM, Cahn W, Schnack HG, Lepage C, Collins L, Evans AC, Hulshoff Pol HE, Kahn RS. Cannabis use and progressive cortical thickness loss in areas rich in CB1 receptors during the first five years of schizophrenia. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2010; 20:855-65. [PMID: 20863671 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2010.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2010] [Revised: 07/08/2010] [Accepted: 08/18/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral grey matter volume reductions are progressive in schizophrenia, with larger grey matter volume decreases associated with cannabis use. It is unknown whether this grey matter loss is globally distributed over the entire brain or more pronounced in specific cortical brain regions. Fifty-one patients with recent-onset schizophrenia and 31 matched healthy subjects were included. For all subjects, magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained at inclusion and at 5-year follow-up. Nineteen patients (ab-)used cannabis but no other illicit drugs; 32 patients and the healthy comparison subjects did not use any drugs during the 5-year follow-up. At follow-up, clinical outcome was measured. To evaluate the local differences in cortical thickness change over five years between the two groups regression analysis was carried out over the cortical surface. At inclusion cortical thickness did not differ between patients and controls and between cannabis-using and non-using patients. Over the follow-up period we found excessive thinning of the right supplementary motor cortex, inferior frontal cortex, superior temporal gyrus, angular gyrus, occipital and parietal lobe in patients relative to controls after controlling for cannabis use. Patients who used cannabis showed additional thinning in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), left anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and left occipital lobe as compared to those patients that did not use cannabis during the scan interval. First-episode schizophrenia patients who use cannabis show a more pronounced cortical thinning than non-using patients in areas known for their high density of CB1 receptors, such as the ACC and the DLPFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Rais
- Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Malone DT, Hill MN, Rubino T. Adolescent cannabis use and psychosis: epidemiology and neurodevelopmental models. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:511-22. [PMID: 20590561 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00721.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most widely used illicit drugs among adolescents, and most users first experiment with it in adolescence. Adolescence is a critical phase for brain development, characterized by neuronal maturation and rearrangement processes, such as myelination, synaptic pruning and dendritic plasticity. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in fundamental brain developmental processes such as neuronal cell proliferation, migration and differentiation. Therefore changes in endocannabinoid activity during this specific developmental phase, induced by the psychoactive component of marijuana, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, might lead to subtle but lasting neurobiological changes that can affect brain functions and behaviour. In this review, we outline recent research into the endocannabinoid system focusing on the relationships between adolescent exposure to cannabinoids and increased risk for certain neuropsychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia, as highlighted by both human and animal studies. Particular emphasis will be given to the possible mechanisms by which adolescent cannabis consumption could render a person more susceptible to developing psychoses such as schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel T Malone
- Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Action, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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Fernandez-Espejo E, Viveros MP, Núñez L, Ellenbroek BA, Rodriguez de Fonseca F. Role of cannabis and endocannabinoids in the genesis of schizophrenia. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2009; 206:531-49. [PMID: 19629449 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-009-1612-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2008] [Accepted: 07/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Cannabis abuse and endocannabinoids are associated to schizophrenia. OBJECTIVES It is important to discern the association between schizophrenia and exogenous Cannabis sativa, on one hand, and the endogenous cannabinoid system, on the other hand. RESULTS On one hand, there is substantial evidence that cannabis abuse is a risk factor for psychosis in genetically predisposed people, may lead to a worse outcome of the disease, or it can affect normal brain development during adolescence, increasing the risk for schizophrenia in adulthood. Regarding genetic predisposition, alterations affecting the cannabinoid CNR1 gene could be related to schizophrenia. On the other hand, the endogenous cannabinoid system is altered in schizophrenia (i.e., increased density of cannabinoid CB1 receptor binding in corticolimbic regions, enhanced cerebrospinal fluid anandamide levels), and dysregulation of this system can interact with neurotransmitter systems in such a way that a "cannabinoid hypothesis" can be integrated in the neurobiological hypotheses of schizophrenia. Finally, there is also evidence that some genetic alterations of the CNR1 gene can act as a protectant factor against schizophrenia or can induce a better pharmacological response to atypical antipsychotics. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis abuse is a risk factor for psychosis in predisposed people, it can affect neurodevelopment during adolescence leading to schizophrenia, and a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system can participate in schizophrenia. It is also worth noting that some specific cannabinoid alterations can act as neuroprotectant for schizophrenia or can be a psychopharmacogenetic rather than a vulnerability factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Fernandez-Espejo
- Departamento de Fisiología Médica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.
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Abstract
For over two decades, cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, has been the most widely used illicit drug by young people in high-income countries, and has recently become popular on a global scale. Epidemiological research during the past 10 years suggests that regular use of cannabis during adolescence and into adulthood can have adverse effects. Epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory studies have established an association between cannabis use and adverse outcomes. We focus on adverse health effects of greatest potential public health interest-that is, those that are most likely to occur and to affect a large number of cannabis users. The most probable adverse effects include a dependence syndrome, increased risk of motor vehicle crashes, impaired respiratory function, cardiovascular disease, and adverse effects of regular use on adolescent psychosocial development and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Hall
- School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia.
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Crippa JA, Zuardi AW, Martín-Santos R, Bhattacharyya S, Atakan Z, McGuire P, Fusar-Poli P. Cannabis and anxiety: a critical review of the evidence. Hum Psychopharmacol 2009; 24:515-23. [PMID: 19693792 DOI: 10.1002/hup.1048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety reactions and panic attacks are the acute symptoms most frequently associated with cannabis use. Understanding the relationship between cannabis and anxiety may clarify the mechanism of action of cannabis and the pathophysiology of anxiety. Aims of the present study were to review the nature of the relationship between cannabis use and anxiety, as well as the possible clinical, diagnostic and causal implications. METHOD Systematic review of the Medline, PsycLIT and EMBASE literature. RESULTS Frequent cannabis users consistently have a high prevalence of anxiety disorders and patients with anxiety disorders have relatively high rates of cannabis use. However, it is unclear if cannabis use increases the risk of developing long-lasting anxiety disorders. Many hypotheses have been proposed in an attempt to explain these relationships, including neurobiological, environmental and social influences. CONCLUSIONS The precise relationship between cannabis use and anxiety has yet to be established. Research is needed to fully clarify the mechanisms of such the association.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alexandre Crippa
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Division of Psychiatry, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP-RP) and INCT Translational Medicine, Brazil
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Hall W. The adverse health effects of cannabis use: what are they, and what are their implications for policy? THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2009; 20:458-66. [PMID: 19362460 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2009.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2008] [Revised: 01/12/2009] [Accepted: 02/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The adverse health effects of cannabis are a source of contention in debates about policies towards the drug. METHODS This paper provides a review of epidemiological evidence on the major adverse health effects of cannabis use and considers its implications for policy. RESULTS The evidence strongly suggests that cannabis can adversely affect some users, especially adolescents who initiate use early and young adults who become regular users. These adverse effects probably include increased risks of: motor vehicle crashes, the development of cannabis dependence, impaired respiratory function, cardiovascular disease, psychotic symptoms, and adverse outcomes of adolescent development, namely, poorer educational outcomes and an increased likelihood of using other illicit drugs. CONCLUSIONS Politically, evidence of adverse health effects favours the status quo in developed countries like Australia where cannabis policy has been framed by the media as a choice between two views: (1) either cannabis use is largely harmless to most users and so we should legalize, or at the very least decriminalize its use; or (2) it harms some of its users so we should continue to prohibit its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Hall
- School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Herston Road, Herston QLD, 4006, Australia.
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Huguelet P, Borras L, Gillieron C, Brandt PY, Mohr S. Influence of spirituality and religiousness on substance misuse in patients with schizophrenia or schizo-affective disorder. Subst Use Misuse 2009; 44:502-13. [PMID: 19219658 DOI: 10.1080/10826080802344872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Substance misuse represents a major issue in the treatment of schizophrenia patients. Spirituality and religiousness have been shown to reduce substance misuse and to foster recovery among substance misusers in the general population. One hundred and fifteen stabilized outpatients with schizophrenia (mean age 39; 70% male) were selected in 2004 for an interview about religious coping. Religious involvement was significantly inversely correlated to substance use and abuse. A content analysis showed that religion may play a protective role toward substance misuse in 14% of the total sample, especially for patients who had stopped substance misuse (42%). It played a negative role in 3% of cases. Religion may play a role in the recovery of schizophrenia patients with substance misuse comorbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Huguelet
- Département de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneve, Switzerland.
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Schizopsychotic symptom-profiles and biomarkers: Beacons in diagnostic labyrinths. Neurotox Res 2008; 14:79-96. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03033800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Cohen M, Solowij N, Carr V. Cannabis, cannabinoids and schizophrenia: integration of the evidence. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2008; 42:357-68. [PMID: 18473254 DOI: 10.1080/00048670801961156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Understanding of the neurophysiological basis of cognitive, behavioural and perceptual disturbances associated with long-term cannabis use has grown dramatically. Exogenous cannabinoids alter the normative functioning of the endogenous cannabinoid system. This system is an important regulator of neurotransmission. Recent research has demonstrated abnormalities of the cannabinoid system in schizophrenia. The purpose of the present paper was to selectively review the links between cannabis use and psychosis, drawing upon recent epidemiological, clinical, cognitive, brain imaging and neurobiological research. The aim is to assist clinicians to probe more deeply into the newly unfolding world of cannabinoid physiology and to critically evaluate the potential role of cannabis in the onset and persistence of cognitive impairments and psychosis in otherwise healthy users and in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Cohen
- Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Mental Health Service, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
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Gouzoulis-Mayfrank E. Doppeldiagnose Psychose und Sucht - Grundlagen und Therapie. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2008; 36:245-53. [DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917.36.4.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung: Patienten mit der Doppeldiagnose Psychose und Sucht (DD-Patienten) sind keine Randgruppe, sondern eine große und schwer behandelbare Kerngruppe unter den Patienten mit Schizophrenie. Vor allem unter Patienten im jugendlichen und jungen Erwachsenenalter steht der Missbrauch von Cannabis an erster Stelle. Unter den verschiedenen Erklärungsmodellen für die hohe Prävalenz der Komorbidität werden derzeit das Modell einer Induktion der Psychose durch den Cannabiskonsum bei primär erhöhter Vulnerabilität für Psychosen sowie das Modell gemeinsamer Vulnerabilitätsfaktoren für beide Störungen favorisiert. Die DD-Patienten haben überwiegend eine schlechte Compliance und einen ungünstigen langfristigen Verlauf ihrer Psychose mit häufigeren Rezidiven und stationären Aufenthalten. Im Sinne einer effizienteren Behandlung dieser Patientengruppe ist es erforderlich Ansätze aus der psychiatrischen Krankenversorgung und der Suchttherapie zu integrieren und aufeinander anzupassen. Die erfolgreichsten Therapiemodelle bieten die Behandlung beider Störungen zeitlich parallel und integriert in einem Setting. Sie haben in der Regel ihren Schwerpunkt im ambulanten Sektor, bieten Pharmakotherapie, Motivationsstärkung, Psychoedukation, kognitiv-verhaltenstherapeutische Ansätze und Familieninterventionen an, und sie können alltagsrelevante Besserungen der sozialen Anpassung und Reduktionen des Konsums erzielen.
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Bozina N, Kuzman MR, Medved V, Jovanovic N, Sertic J, Hotujac L. Associations between MDR1 gene polymorphisms and schizophrenia and therapeutic response to olanzapine in female schizophrenic patients. J Psychiatr Res 2008; 42:89-97. [PMID: 17113599 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2006.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2006] [Revised: 09/27/2006] [Accepted: 10/02/2006] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Multidrug resistant protein (MDR1) gene, which codes for P-glycoprotein and functions as an efflux transporter in different cells, is widely localized in normal tissues including the gastrointestinal tract, blood cells, biliary tract, kidney and brain and plays a major role in absorption, distribution and elimination of various xenobiotics. Therefore, MDR1 gene variants were proposed as potential susceptibility factors for diseases and as determinants of treatment response to various drugs. We investigated the relationships between exon 21 G2677T and exon 26 C3435T genetic variants of MDR1 gene with susceptibility and treatment response in female schizophrenic patients. The study was conducted in two steps. We first compared allele, genotype and haplotype distributions between 117 female schizophrenic patients and 123 control female subjects. Afterwards, we studied treatment response to olanzapine, in 87 out of 117 previously unmedicated female patients. Overall, we found lower representation of G2677/C3435 haplotype in schizophrenic female patients compared to controls. Test result for linkage disequilibrium between loci was found to be significant. Furthermore, we found significant associations between MDR1 exon 21 G2677T genotypes and treatment response measured with positive PANSS percentage changes, with T allele and TT genotype being associated with significantly better treatment response. A borderline, non-significant statistical association was found between MDR1 exon 26 C3435T genotypes and treatment response, with TT genotype being associated with better treatment response. Our data support functional importance of the MDR1 mutations for the susceptibility and treatment response in female schizophrenic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Bozina
- Clinical Institute of Laboratory Diagnosis, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Salata 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Abstract
WE BRIEFLY REVIEW THE EVIDENCE THAT CANNABIS USE IN ADOLESCENCE AND YOUNG ADULTHOOD IS A CONTRIBUTORY CAUSE OF SCHIZOPHRENIFORM PSYCHOSES, BY SUMMARISING LONGITUDINAL STUDIES THAT: a) have examined relationships between cannabis use and the risk of psychosis or psychotic symptoms; and b) have controlled for potential confounders, such as other forms of drug use and personal characteristics that predict an increased risk of psychosis. There is now reasonable evidence from longitudinal studies that regular cannabis use predicts an increased risk of schizophrenia and of reporting psychotic symptoms. These relationships have persisted after controlling for confounding variables such as personal characteristics and other drug use. The relationships did not seem to be explained by cannabis being used to self-medicate symptoms of psychosis. A contributory causal relationship is biologically plausible because psychotic disorders involve disturbances in the dopamine neurotransmitter system with which the cannabinoid system interacts, as has been shown by animal studies and a human provocation study. We briefly explore the clinical and public health implications of the most plausible hypothesis, that cannabis use precipitates schizophrenia in persons who are vulnerable because of a personal or family history of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Hall
- School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Herston Road, Herston QLD 4006, Australia
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Murray RM, Morrison PD, Henquet C, Forti MD. Cannabis, the mind and society: the hash realities. Nat Rev Neurosci 2007; 8:885-95. [DOI: 10.1038/nrn2253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Ajdacic-Gross V, Lauber C, Warnke I, Haker H, Murray RM, Rössler W. Changing incidence of psychotic disorders among the young in Zurich. Schizophr Res 2007; 95:9-18. [PMID: 17630260 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2007.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2006] [Revised: 06/08/2007] [Accepted: 06/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
There is controversy over whether the incidence rates of schizophrenia and psychotic disorders have changed in recent decades. To detect deviations from trends in incidence, we analysed admission data of patients with an ICD-8/9/10 diagnosis of psychotic disorders in the Canton Zurich / Switzerland, for the period 1977-2005. The data was derived from the central psychiatric register of the Canton Zurich. Ex-post forecasting with ARIMA (Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average) models was used to assess departures from existing trends. In addition, age-period-cohort analysis was applied to determine hidden birth cohort effects. First admission rates of patients with psychotic disorders were constant in men and showed a downward trend in women. However, the rates in the youngest age groups showed a strong increase in the second half of the 1990's. The trend reversal among the youngest age groups coincides with the increased use of cannabis among young Swiss in the 1990's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladeta Ajdacic-Gross
- Research Unit for Clinical and Social Psychiatry, Psychiatric University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Boydell J, Dean K, Dutta R, Giouroukou E, Fearon P, Murray R. A comparison of symptoms and family history in schizophrenia with and without prior cannabis use: implications for the concept of cannabis psychosis. Schizophr Res 2007; 93:203-10. [PMID: 17462864 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2007.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2006] [Revised: 03/11/2007] [Accepted: 03/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is considerable interest in cannabis use in psychosis. It has been suggested that the chronic psychosis associated with cannabis use, is symptomatically distinct from idiopathic schizophrenia. Several studies have reported differences in psychopathology and family history in people with schizophrenia according to whether or not they were cannabis users. We set out to test the hypotheses arising from these studies that cannabis use is associated with more bizarre behaviour, more thought disorder, fewer negative symptoms including blunted affect, more delusions of reference, more paranoid delusions and a stronger family history of schizophrenia. METHOD We used a case register that contained 757 cases of first onset schizophrenia, 182 (24%) of whom had used cannabis in the year prior to first presentation, 552 (73%) had not and 3% had missing data. We completed the OPCRIT checklist on all patients and investigated differences in the proportion of people with distractibility, bizarre behaviour, positive formal thought disorder, delusions of reference, well organised delusions, any first rank symptom, persecutory delusions, abusive/accusatory hallucinations, blunted affect, negative thought disorder, any negative symptoms (catatonia, blunted affect, negative thought disorder, or deterioration), lack of insight, suicidal ideation and a positive family history of schizophrenia, using chi square tests. Logistic regression modelling was then used to determine whether prior cannabis use affected the presence of the characteristics after controlling for age, sex and ethnicity. RESULTS There was no statistically significant effect of cannabis use on the presence of any of the above. There remained however a non-significant trend towards more insight (OR 0.65 p=0.055 for "loss of insight") and a finding of fewer abusive or accusatory hallucinations (OR 0.65 p=0.049) of borderline significance amongst the cannabis users. These were in the hypothesised direction. There was no evidence of fewer negative symptoms or greater family history amongst cannabis users. CONCLUSION We found few appreciable differences in symptomatology between schizophrenic patients who were or were not cannabis users. There were no differences in the proportion of people with a positive family history of schizophrenia between cannabis users and non-users. This argues against a distinct schizophrenia-like psychosis caused by cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Boydell
- Division of Psychological Medicine, PO Box 63, Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, United Kingdom.
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Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating disease of major public health importance, the incidence of which shows prominent worldwide variation (up to fivefold) and is about 40% greater in men than in women. Furthermore, epidemiological studies have shown that the incidence is higher among those who grow up in urban areas and among migrants. Recent evidence indicates that, although the neurochemical origins of schizophrenia do not necessarily lie in dopamine dysregulation, this operates as the final common pathway underlying positive psychotic symptoms and may also play a role in negative and cognitive symptoms. The last few years have seen the development of a plausible model in which schizophrenia is seen as the consequence of the actions of a number of component causes, such as genes or early environmental hazards that subtly alter subsequent neurodevelopment, thereby predisposing the child to later dopamine dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Di Forti
- Division of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK.
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