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Guo Y, Long C, Ni J, Zeng J, Wang J, Dai Y, Zhao J. Glucuronidation dynamics of curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin for differential structures and chemical reactivities in human liver microsome and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 2B7. Food Chem 2024; 448:138929. [PMID: 38522299 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
THC is the main metabolite of curcumin with better bioactivity. This study aimed to explore the factors that cause differences in the bioactivity of curcumin and THC. We analyzed the metabolic activities of curcumin and THC and the factors responsible for the differences in their activities by glucuronidation activity assay, LC-MS, HPLC, homologous sequence comparisons, and molecular docking. Curcumin has higher metabolic activity than THC in HLM and UGT2B7, while the keto-enol isomers of curcumin and THC were distinctly different under different pH, and their structural transformations were hypothesized. Furthermore, UGT1A and UGT2B are differential sequences of curcumin and THC in UGTs. The binding sites and patterns of curcumin and THC in UGT2B7 are markedly different. In summary, the difference in keto-enolic interconversion isomerism between curcumin and THC is the main factor causing the difference in their activities, which provides a scientific basis for the development of curcumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlei Guo
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, 610041 Chengdu, China; Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica, 400065 Chongqing, China.
| | - Chengyan Long
- Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica, 400065 Chongqing, China
| | - Jimin Ni
- Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica, 400065 Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Quality of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Translational Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - Jianbo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Quality of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Translational Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Dai
- Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Quality of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Translational Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - Junning Zhao
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, 610041 Chengdu, China; National Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, National Medical Products Administration of China, 100037 Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Biological Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Quality of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Translational Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 610041 Chengdu, China
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Livne O, Budney A, Borodovsky J, Shmulewitz D, Walsh C, Struble CA, Habib M, Aharonovich E, Hasin DS. Age differences in patterns of cannabis use among an online US sample of adults who consume cannabis frequently. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38640463 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2024.2309340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Background: Cannabis use is increasing among middle-aged and older US adults, populations that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of cannabis. Risks for adverse effects differ by cannabis use patterns, which have become increasingly heterogeneous. Nevertheless, little is known about age differences in such patterns.Objective: To investigate age differences in cannabis use patterns, comparing younger (age 18-49), middle-aged (age 50-64), and older adults (age ≥65).Methods: A total of 4,151 US adults with past 7-day cannabis consumption completed an online survey (35.1% male; 60.1% female; 4.8% identified as "other"). Regression models examined age differences in cannabis use patterns.Results: Compared to younger adults, middle-aged and older adults were more likely to consume cannabis during evening hours (50-64: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.98, 95% CI 2.24-3.96; ≥65: aOR = 4.23, 95 CI 2.82-6.35); by only one method (50-64: aOR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.34-2.09; ≥65: aOR = 3.38, 95 CI 2.24-5.09); primarily by smoking as the only method (50-64: aOR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.29-1.78; ≥65: aOR = 2.12, 95 CI 1.64-2.74); but less likely to consume concentrated cannabis products (concentrates) with extremely high %THC (50-64: aOR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.54-0.93; ≥65: aOR = 0.30, 95 CI 0.16-0.55). Age differences in cannabis use patterns were also observed between middle-aged and older adults.Conclusion: Findings suggest that middle-aged and older adults may engage in less risky cannabis use patterns compared to younger groups (e.g. lower likelihood of consuming highly potent concentrates). However, findings also underscore the importance of recognizing risks unique to these older demographics, such as smoking-related health events. Consequently, prevention strategies targeting such use patterns are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofir Livne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alan Budney
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biomedical Data Sciences, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Hanover, NH, Lebanon
| | - Jacob Borodovsky
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biomedical Data Sciences, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Hanover, NH, Lebanon
| | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claire Walsh
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cara A Struble
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biomedical Data Sciences, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Hanover, NH, Lebanon
| | - Mohammad Habib
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biomedical Data Sciences, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Hanover, NH, Lebanon
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deborah S Hasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Helander A, Johansson M, Villén T, Andersson A. Appearance of hexahydrocannabinols as recreational drugs and implications for cannabis drug testing - focus on HHC, HHC-P, HHC-O and HHC-H. Scand J Clin Lab Invest 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38619215 DOI: 10.1080/00365513.2024.2340039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and other unclassified cannabinoids, which were recently introduced to the recreational drug market, on cannabis drug testing in urine and oral fluid samples. After the appearance of HHC in Sweden in 2022, the number of posts about HHC on an online drug discussion forum increased significantly in the spring of 2023, indicating increased interest and use. In parallel, the frequency of false positive screening tests for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in oral fluid, and for its carboxy metabolite (THC-COOH) in urine, rose from <2% to >10%. This suggested that HHC cross-reacted with the antibodies in the immunoassay screening, which was confirmed in spiking experiments with HHC, HHC-COOH, HHC acetate (HHC-O), hexahydrocannabihexol (HHC-H), hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHC-P), and THC-P. When HHC and HHC-P were classified as narcotics in Sweden on 11 July 2023, they disappeared from the online and street shops market and were replaced by other unregulated variants (e.g. HHC-O and THC-P). In urine samples submitted for routine cannabis drug testing, HHC-COOH concentrations up to 205 (mean 60, median 27) µg/L were observed. To conclude, cannabis drug testing cannot rely on results from immunoassay screening, as it cannot distinguish between different tetra- and hexahydrocannabinols, some being classified but others unregulated. The current trend for increased use of unregulated cannabinols will likely increase the proportion of positive cannabis screening results that need to be confirmed with mass spectrometric methods. However, the observed cross-reactivity also means a way to pick up use of new cannabinoids that otherwise risk going undetected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Helander
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Johansson
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tomas Villén
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annika Andersson
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Yabut KCB, Winnie Wen Y, Simon KT, Isoherranen N. CYP2C9, CYP3A and CYP2C19 metabolize Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol to multiple metabolites but metabolism is affected by human liver fatty acid binding protein (FABP1). Biochem Pharmacol 2024:116191. [PMID: 38583809 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive constituent of cannabis. It is cleared predominantly via metabolism. Metabolism to 11-OH-THC by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 has been proposed as the main clearance pathway of THC, with the estimated fraction metabolized (fm) about 70%. The remaining clearance pathways are not well established, and it is unknown how THC is eliminated in individuals with reduced CYP2C9 activity. The goal of this study was to systematically identify the CYP enzymes contributing to THC clearance and characterize the metabolites formed. Further, this study aimed to characterize the impact of liver fatty acid binding protein (FABP1) on THC metabolism by human CYPs. THC was metabolized to at least four different metabolites including 11-OH-THC in human liver microsomes (HLMs) and with recombinant CYPs. 11-OH-THC was formed by recombinant CYP2C9 (Km,u = 0.77 nM, kcat = 12 min-1) and by recombinant CYP2C19 (Km,u = 2.2 nM, kcat = 14 min-1). The other three major metabolites were likely hydroxylations in the cyclohexenyl ring and were formed mainly by recombinant CYP3A4/5 (Km,u > 10 nM). HLM experiments confirmed the contributions of CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP3A to THC metabolism. The presence of FABP1 and THC binding to FABP1 altered THC metabolism by recombinant CYPs and HLMs in an enzyme and metabolite specific manner. This suggests that FABP1 may interact with CYP enzymes and alter the fm by CYPs towards THC metabolism. In conclusion, this study is the first to systematically establish the metabolic profile of THC by human CYPs and characterize how FABP1 binding alters CYP mediated THC metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- King Clyde B Yabut
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA United States
| | - Yue Winnie Wen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA United States
| | - Keiann T Simon
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA United States
| | - Nina Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA United States.
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Cahill MS, Arsenault T, Bui TH, Zuverza-Mena N, Bharadwaj A, Prapayotin-Riveros K, White JC, Dimkpa CO. Copper Stimulation of Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol Production in Hemp ( Cannabis sativa L.) Is Copper-Type, Dose, and Cultivar Dependent. J Agric Food Chem 2024; 72:6921-6930. [PMID: 38516700 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c07819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Copper (Cu) is an element widely used as a pesticide for the control of plant diseases. Cu is also known to influence a range of plant secondary metabolisms. However, it is not known whether Cu influences the levels of the major metabolites in hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). This study investigated the impact of Cu on the levels of these cannabinoids in two hemp cultivars, Wife and Merlot, under field conditions, as a function of harvest time (August-September), Cu type (nano, bulk, or ionic), and dose (50, 100, and 500 ppm). In Wife, Cu caused significant temporal increases in THC and CBD production during plant growth, reaching increases of 33% and 31% for THC and 51% and 16.5% for CBD by harvests 3 and 4, respectively. CuO nanoparticles at 50 and 100 ppm significantly increased THC and CBD levels, compared to the control, respectively, by 18% and 27% for THC and 19.9% and 33.6% for CBD. These nanospecific increases coincided with significantly more Cu in the inflorescences (buds) than in the control and bulk CuO treatments. Contrarily, no temporal induction of the cannabinoids by Cu was noticed in Merlot, suggesting a cultivar-specific response to Cu. However, overall, in Merlot, Cu ions, but not particulate Cu, induced THC and CBD levels by 27% and 36%, respectively, compared to the control. Collectively, our findings provide information with contrasting implications in the production of these cannabinoids, where, dependent on the cultivar, metabolite levels may rise above the 0.3% regulatory threshold for THC but to a more profitable level for CBD. Further investigations with a wider range of hemp cultivars, CuO nanoparticle (NP) doses, and harvest times would clarify the significance and broader implications of the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan S Cahill
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Terri Arsenault
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Trung Huu Bui
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Nubia Zuverza-Mena
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Anuja Bharadwaj
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Kitty Prapayotin-Riveros
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Jason C White
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Christian O Dimkpa
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
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Ryalls B, Patel M, Sparkes E, Banister SD, Finlay DB, Glass M. Investigating selectivity and bias for G protein subtypes and β-arrestins by synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists at the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116052. [PMID: 38354957 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) with widespread expression in the central nervous system. This canonically G⍺i/o-coupled receptor mediates the effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs). Recreational use of SCRAs is associated with serious adverse health effects, making pharmacological research into these compounds a priority. Several studies have hypothesised that signalling bias may explain the different toxicological profiles between SCRAs and THC. Previous studies have focused on bias between G protein activation measured by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) inhibition and β-arrestin translocation. In contrast, the current study characterises bias between G⍺ subtypes of the G⍺i/o family and β-arrestins; this method facilitates a more accurate assessment of ligand bias by assessing signals that have not undergone major amplification. We have characterised G protein dissociation and translocation of β-arrestin 1 and 2 using real-time BRET reporters. The responses produced by each SCRA across the G protein subtypes tested were consistent with the responses produced by the reference ligand AMB-FUBINACA. Ligand bias was probed by applying the operational analysis to determine biases within the G⍺i/o family, and between G protein subtypes and β-arrestins. Overall, these results confirm SCRAs to be balanced, high-efficacy ligands compared to the low efficacy ligand THC, with only one SCRA, 4CN-MPP-BUT7IACA, demonstrating statistically significant bias in one pathway comparison (towards β-arrestin 1 when compared with G⍺oA/oB). This suggests that the adverse effects caused by SCRAs are due to high potency and efficacy at CB1, rather than biased agonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Ryalls
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Monica Patel
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Eric Sparkes
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel D Banister
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David B Finlay
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR) Kenepuru Science Centre: 34 Kenepuru Drive, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022, New Zealand.
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Compton W, Weiss S. Commentary on Petrilli et al.: Assessing cannabis use in real-world settings - advances using standard THC units. Addiction 2024; 119:784-785. [PMID: 38263762 DOI: 10.1111/add.16440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Wilson Compton
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Susan Weiss
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
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Torabi A, Madsen FB, Skov AL. Permeation-Enhancing Strategies for Transdermal Delivery of Cannabinoids. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:449-463. [PMID: 37751171 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This review aims to provide an overview of the advancements and status of clinical studies and potential permeation-enhancing strategies in the transdermal delivery of cannabinoids. Methods: A systematic and comprehensive literature search across academic databases, search engines, and online sources to identify relevant literature on the transdermal administration of cannabinoids. Results: Cannabinoids have proven beneficial in the treatment of wide-ranging physical and psychological disorders. A shift toward legalized cannabinoid products has increased both interests in cannabinoid research and the development of novel medicinal exploitations of cannabinoids in recent years. Oral and pulmonary delivery of cannabinoids has several limitations, including poor bioavailability, low solubility, and potential side effects. This has diverted scientific attention toward the transdermal route, successfully overcoming these hurdles by providing higher bioavailability, safety, and patient compliance. Yet, due to the barrier properties of the skin and the lipophilic nature of cannabinoids, there is a need to increase the permeation of the drugs to the underneath layers of skin to reach desired therapeutic plasma levels. Literature describing detailed clinical trials on cannabinoid transdermal delivery, either with or without permeation-enhancing strategies, is limited. Conclusion: The limited number of reports indicates that increased attention is needed on developing and examining efficient transdermal delivery systems for cannabinoids, including patch design and composition, drug-patch interaction, clinical effectiveness and safety in vivo, and permeation-enhancing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Torabi
- Danish Polymer Centre, Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Frederikke Bahrt Madsen
- Danish Polymer Centre, Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anne Ladegaard Skov
- Danish Polymer Centre, Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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Nielsen SSR, Pedersen JAZ, Sharma N, Wasehuus PK, Hansen MS, Møller AMJ, Borggaard XG, Rauch A, Frost M, Sondergaard TE, Søe K. Human osteoclasts in vitro are dose dependently both inhibited and stimulated by cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC). Bone 2024; 181:117035. [PMID: 38342278 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2024.117035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Legalized use of cannabis for medical or recreational use is becoming more and more common. With respect to potential side-effects on bone health only few clinical trials have been conducted - and with opposing results. Therefore, it seems that there is a need for more knowledge on the potential effects of cannabinoids on human bone cells. We studied the effect of cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (dose range from 0.3 to 30 μM) on human osteoclasts in mono- as well as in co-cultures with human osteoblast lineage cells. We have used CD14+ monocytes from anonymous blood donors to differentiate into osteoclasts, and human osteoblast lineage cells from outgrowths of human trabecular bone. Our results show that THC and CBD have dose-dependent effects on both human osteoclast fusion and bone resorption. In the lower dose ranges of THC and CBD, osteoclast fusion was unaffected while bone resorption was increased. At higher doses, both osteoclast fusion and bone resorption were inhibited. In co-cultures, both osteoclastic bone resorption and alkaline phosphatase activity of the osteoblast lineage cells were inhibited. Finally, we observed that the cannabinoid receptor CNR2 is more highly expressed than CNR1 in CD14+ monocytes and pre-osteoclasts, but also that differentiation to osteoclasts was coupled to a reduced expression of CNR2, in particular. Interestingly, under co-culture conditions, we only detected the expression of CNR2 but not CNR1 for both osteoclast as well as osteoblast lineage nuclei. In line with the existing literature on the effect of cannabinoids on bone cells, our current study shows both stimulatory and inhibitory effects. This highlights that potential unfavorable effects of cannabinoids on bone cells and bone health is a complex matter. The contradictory and lacking documentation for such potential unfavorable effects on bone health as well as other potential effects, should be taken into consideration when considering the use of cannabinoids for both medical and recreational use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone S R Nielsen
- Clinical Cell Biology, Pathology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Juliana A Z Pedersen
- Clinical Cell Biology, Pathology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Neha Sharma
- Clinical Cell Biology, Pathology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark.
| | - Pernille K Wasehuus
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Morten S Hansen
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory (KMEB), Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark.
| | - Anaïs M J Møller
- Clinical Cell Biology, Pathology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Lillebaelt Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Kabbeltoft 25, 7100 Vejle, Denmark.
| | - Xenia G Borggaard
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Molecular Bone Histology, Pathology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark.
| | - Alexander Rauch
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory (KMEB), Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Centre Odense, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 10, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Morten Frost
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory (KMEB), Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Centre Odense, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 10, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Teis E Sondergaard
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Kent Søe
- Clinical Cell Biology, Pathology Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark; Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 15, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark.
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10
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Spindle TR, Zamarripa CA, Russo E, Pollak L, Bigelow G, Ward AM, Tompson B, Sempio C, Shokati T, Klawitter J, Christians U, Vandrey R. Vaporized D-limonene selectively mitigates the acute anxiogenic effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in healthy adults who intermittently use cannabis. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 257:111267. [PMID: 38498958 PMCID: PMC11031290 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis contains hundreds of chemical constituents beyond delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is believed to drive most of its acute pharmacodynamic effects. The entourage effect theory asserts that non-THC constituents can impact acute cannabis effects, but few empirical studies have systematically evaluated this theory in humans. This study assessed whether the cannabis terpenoid d-limonene mitigates the acute anxiogenic effects of THC. METHODS Twenty healthy adults completed nine, double-blind outpatient sessions in which they inhaled vaporized THC alone (15mg or 30mg), d-limonene alone (1mg or 5mg), the same doses of THC and d-limonene together, or placebo; a subset of participants (n=12) completed a tenth session in which 30mg THC+15mg d-limonene was administered. Outcomes included subjective drug effects, cognitive/psychomotor performance, vital signs, and plasma THC and d-limonene concentrations. RESULTS When d-limonene was administered alone, pharmacodynamic outcomes did not differ from placebo. Administration of 15mg and 30mg THC alone produced subjective, cognitive, and physiological effects typical of acute cannabis exposure. Ratings of anxiety-like subjective effects qualitatively decreased as d-limonene dose increased and concurrent administration of 30mg THC+15mg d-limonene significantly reduced ratings of "anxious/nervous" and "paranoid" compared with 30mg THC alone. Other pharmacodynamic effects were unchanged by d-limonene. D-limonene plasma concentrations were dose orderly, and concurrent administration of d-limonene did not alter THC pharmacokinetics. CONCLUSIONS D-limonene selectively attenuated THC-induced anxiogenic effects, suggesting this terpenoid could increase the therapeutic index of THC. Future research should determine whether this effect extends to oral dose formulations and evaluate the interactions between other cannabis terpenoids or cannabinoids and THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tory R Spindle
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - C Austin Zamarripa
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Ethan Russo
- CReDO Science, 20402 81st Avenue SW, Vashon, WA 98070, USA
| | - Lauren Pollak
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - George Bigelow
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Alexandra M Ward
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Bridget Tompson
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Touraj Shokati
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Uwe Christians
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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11
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Borodovsky JT, Hasin DS, Shmulewitz D, Walsh C, Livne O, Aharonovich E, Struble CA, Habib MI, Budney AJ. Typical Hits, Grams, or Joints: Evaluating Cannabis Survey Measurement Strategies for Quantifying Consumption. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:646-658. [PMID: 36577020 PMCID: PMC10998027 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Standardized survey measures that capture diverse cannabis consumption patterns are needed to inform public health and policy. Our team is developing a flexible, personalized, low-burden survey item inventory to measure cannabis use patterns and estimate milligrams of THC (mgTHC) consumption in large samples. This study aimed to identify measurement gaps and analysis implications associated with an initial pool of candidate items that assessed use of cannabis flower and concentrate products (smoked and/or vaporized). Methods: Adult cannabis consumers (n=4247) completed an online survey assessing cannabis use frequency, quantity, product types, product potencies (%THC), and methods of administration. Participants chose to report their consumption quantities using one of three units: "hits per day," "grams per week," or "joints per week." Respondents also indicated whether their past 7-day consumption pattern represented their typical pattern. Results: Eighty-one percent had used cannabis daily in the past week. Thirty-two percent, 53%, and 15% chose to report flower and concentrate consumption quantity in hits, grams, and joints, respectively. Approximately 80-90% of responses for the number of hits, grams, and joints consumed were less than the maximum response option-suggesting that response options captured the full range of potential cannabis consumption behaviors. Those who chose grams or joints units were generally more likely to endorse higher risk cannabis use (e.g., morning use, high %THC products) in the past week than those who chose the hits unit (adjusted Odds Ratio range: 1.2-3.9). Among those who reported that the past week represented their typical behavior (83%), past 30-day and past 7-day frequencies were highly correlated (Spearman's Rho=0.77)-supporting the feasibility of using lower burden "typical week" items to extrapolate patterns beyond a 1-week time frame. Conclusion: Results from this online convenience sample of frequent cannabis consumers suggest that the current items yield coherent and expected response patterns. Although additional testing is required, a standardized, flexible survey instrument for large-scale assessment of cannabis patterns and calculation of mgTHC seems within reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob T. Borodovsky
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Deborah S. Hasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Claire Walsh
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ofir Livne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cara A. Struble
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Mohammad I. Habib
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Alan J. Budney
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
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12
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Budney AJ, Borodovsky JT, Struble CA, Habib MI, Shmulewitz D, Livne O, Aharonovich E, Walsh C, Cuttler C, Hasin DS. Estimating THC Consumption from Smoked and Vaped Cannabis Products in an Online Survey of Adults Who Use Cannabis. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:688-698. [PMID: 36521175 PMCID: PMC10998014 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Quantification of consumption patterns of the primary psychoactive compounds in cannabis, which cause euphoria or intoxication, is sorely needed to identify potential risks and benefits of use and to provide meaningful safety information to the public. The diversity of products available, multiple methods of administration, and lack of labeling of products have made such quantification challenging. Our group is developing a survey instrument for estimating the quantity of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) consumed in population samples, which is flexible and incorporates individualized reports of patterns of consumption. This study provides an illustration of a procedure for translating self-reported consumption into milligrams of THC (mgTHC), which may serve as a working model for future quantification efforts. Methods: Social media advertising was leveraged to enroll 5627 adults who use cannabis into an online, anonymous survey study. Only those who used cannabis in the past 7 days, used flower or concentrate products, and who chose to report their quantity of use in hits per day or grams per week (n=3211) were included in this report. Formulas were used to estimate mgTHC used per day, in hits per day or grams per week; potency (%THC); constants for estimating the amount of material consumed for each hit; and a method of administration efficiency constant to account for THC loss due to the administration method. Results: The estimate for mgTHC used per day was M=92.8 mg/day (SD=97.2 mg; 1st-3rd quartile range=25-132 mg). The estimated quantity of use was much lower for those reporting in hits (M=43.7 mg, SD=43.8) than for those reporting in grams (M=115.1 mg, SD=107.0). The estimated rate of binge use in the past week, arbitrarily defined as more than 50 mgTHC within any one daily time quadrant, was 6.8%, which increased to 29.3% if 25 mgTHC was used. Conclusions: The approach illustrated in this study goes beyond existing cannabis measures by asking participants to provide highly detailed estimates of their past 7-day use patterns and then applying a logical formula to translate this information into mgTHC. This initial procedure has limitations and lacks generalization; however, we hope this demonstration stimulates testing of similar approaches and relevant laboratory experiments that will enhance the validity of cannabis consumption estimation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J. Budney
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Jacob T. Borodovsky
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Cara A. Struble
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Mohammad I. Habib
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Ofir Livne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Claire Walsh
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Carrie Cuttler
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Deborah S. Hasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, USA
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13
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Miederer I, Schmitt U, Bausbacher N, Röhrich J, Mildenberger P, Lutz B, Tüscher O, Schreckenberger M. Chronic Administration of Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Alters Brain Glucose Uptake and Improves Waiting Impulsivity in the Rat. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:612-621. [PMID: 36800226 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) acts as an agonist at cannabinoid receptors. Its chronic intake affects many behaviors, including cognitive processes. The aims of this study in rats are to assess the chronic effects of THC on impulsivity and on regional brain glucose uptake. Materials and Methods: For the determination of "waiting impulsivity," a total of 20 male Lister Hooded rats were trained to perform a reaction time task, followed by a baseline test of impulsivity and baseline glucose uptake measurements with [18F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose and positron emission tomography (PET). Then, 10 rats each received 3 mg/kg THC or vehicle injected intraperitoneally daily for 21 days. Subsequently, a second behavioral test and PET measurements were performed, and blood THC concentrations were determined. Analyses of variance of brain regions of the impulsivity network with the parameter "standardized uptake value" regarding glucose uptake and correlation analyses of the collected parameters were carried out. Discussion: After chronic THC treatment, decreased glucose uptake (p-values <0.05) was found in cingulate cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, thalamus, and cerebellar cortex, as compared with vehicle-treated rats. The number of correct no-go responses (increased waiting time) significantly increased (p<0.05) in THC-treated rats. Furthermore, correct no-go responses correlated positively and strongly with the THC blood concentrations (Spearman's ρ=0.79, p<0.01). Conclusion: These findings reflect a specific reduction in impulsive behavior after chronic THC treatment, showing a functionally relevant influence of THC on "waiting impulsivity" with reduced selective glucose uptake at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Miederer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schmitt
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), Mainz, Germany
| | - Nicole Bausbacher
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jörg Röhrich
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Philipp Mildenberger
- Institute for Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, and University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Oliver Tüscher
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), Mainz, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Mathias Schreckenberger
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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14
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Lorenzetti V, Gaillard A, McTavish E, Grace S, Rossetti MG, Batalla A, Bellani M, Brambilla P, Chye Y, Conrod P, Cousijn J, Labuschagne I, Clemente A, Mackey S, Rendell P, Solowij N, Suo C, Li CSR, Terrett G, Thompson PM, Yücel M, Garavan H, Roberts CA. Cannabis Dependence is Associated with Reduced Hippocampal Subregion Volumes Independently of Sex: Findings from an ENIGMA Addiction Working Group Multi-Country Study. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024. [PMID: 38498015 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Males and females who consume cannabis can experience different mental health and cognitive problems. Neuroscientific theories of addiction postulate that dependence is underscored by neuroadaptations, but do not account for the contribution of distinct sexes. Further, there is little evidence for sex differences in the neurobiology of cannabis dependence as most neuroimaging studies have been conducted in largely male samples in which cannabis dependence, as opposed to use, is often not ascertained. Methods: We examined subregional hippocampus and amygdala volumetry in a sample of 206 people recruited from the ENIGMA Addiction Working Group. They included 59 people with cannabis dependence (17 females), 49 cannabis users without cannabis dependence (20 females), and 98 controls (33 females). Results: We found no group-by-sex effect on subregional volumetry. The left hippocampal cornu ammonis subfield 1 (CA1) volumes were lower in dependent cannabis users compared with non-dependent cannabis users (p<0.001, d=0.32) and with controls (p=0.022, d=0.18). Further, the left cornu ammonis subfield 3 (CA3) and left dentate gyrus volumes were lower in dependent versus non-dependent cannabis users but not versus controls (p=0.002, d=0.37, and p=0.002, d=0.31, respectively). All models controlled for age, intelligence quotient (IQ), alcohol and tobacco use, and intracranial volume. Amygdala volumetry was not affected by group or group-by-sex, but was smaller in females than males. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the relationship between cannabis dependence and subregional volumetry was not moderated by sex. Specifically, dependent (rather than non-dependent) cannabis use may be associated with alterations in selected hippocampus subfields high in cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors and implicated in addictive behavior. As these data are cross-sectional, it is plausible that differences predate cannabis dependence onset and contribute to the initiation of cannabis dependence. Longitudinal neuroimaging work is required to examine the time-course of the onset of subregional hippocampal alterations in cannabis dependence, and their progression as cannabis dependence exacerbates or recovers over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lorenzetti
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexandra Gaillard
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Mental Health and Department of Health Sciences and Biostatistics, Swinburne University, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Eugene McTavish
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sally Grace
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maria Gloria Rossetti
- UOC Psichiatria, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI), Verona, Italy
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Albert Batalla
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marcella Bellani
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paolo Brambilla
- UOC Psichiatria, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI), Verona, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Yann Chye
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Patricia Conrod
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montreal, CHU Ste Justine Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - Janna Cousijn
- Neuroscience of Addiction Lab, Center for Substance Use and Addiction Research (CESAR), Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Izelle Labuschagne
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Adam Clemente
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Scott Mackey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Peter Rendell
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Nadia Solowij
- School of Psychology, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Chao Suo
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Chiang-Shan R Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Gill Terrett
- Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul M Thompson
- Department of Neurology, Imaging Genetics Center, Stevens Institute for Neuroimaging & Informatics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, California, USA
| | - Murat Yücel
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Australia
| | - Hugh Garavan
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Carl A Roberts
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Coates S, Bardhi K, Lazarus P. Cannabinoid-Induced Inhibition of Morphine Glucuronidation and the Potential for In Vivo Drug-Drug Interactions. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:418. [PMID: 38543313 PMCID: PMC10975434 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16030418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Opioids are commonly prescribed for the treatment of chronic pain. Approximately 50% of adults who are prescribed opioids for pain co-use cannabis with their opioid treatment. Morphine is primarily metabolized by UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 2B7 to an inactive metabolite, morphine-3-glucuronide (M3G), and an active metabolite, morphine-6-glucuronide (M6G). Previous studies have shown that major cannabis constituents including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) inhibit major UGT enzymes. To examine whether cannabinoids or their major metabolites inhibit morphine glucuronidation by UGT2B7, in vitro assays and mechanistic static modeling were performed with these cannabinoids and their major metabolites including 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC), 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-COOH-THC), 7-hydroxy-cannabidiol (7-OH-CBD), and 7-carboxy-cannabidiol (7-COOH-CBD). In vitro assays with rUGT-overexpressing microsomes and human liver microsomes showed that THC and CBD and their metabolites inhibited UGT2B7-mediated morphine metabolism, with CBD and THC exhibiting the most potent Ki,u values (0.16 µM and 0.37 µM, respectively). Only 7-COOH-CBD exhibited no inhibitory activity against UGT2B7-mediated morphine metabolism. Static mechanistic modeling predicted an in vivo drug-drug interaction between morphine and THC after inhaled cannabis, and between THC, CBD, and 7-OH-CBD after oral consumption of cannabis. These data suggest that the co-use of these agents may lead to adverse drug events in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Philip Lazarus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, 412 E. Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
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16
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Coskun Yazici ZM, Yanar K, Bolkent S. Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol protects cardiac tissue against endoplasmic reticulum and oxidative stresses, apoptosis, and inflammation in rats with hyperinsulinemia. J Pharm Pharmacol 2024:rgae023. [PMID: 38470215 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgae023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In our study, we aimed to examine how δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) administration to hyperinsulinemia (HI) model rats would change endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in cardiac tissue. METHODS Rats were divided into four groups (n = 32): Control (C), THC, HI, and Treatment (Tre). Fructose (10%) in the drinking water was given to HI and Tre rats for 12 weeks. 1.5 mg/kg/d THC was given intraperitoneally to THC and Tre rats in the last 4 weeks of the experiment. The mRNA expressions of ERS and apoptosis markers in the cardiac tissue were detected. TNF-α concentration and oxidative stress were also analyzed. KEY FINDINGS THC treatment in rats with HI ameliorated the overexpression of GRP-78, IRE1α, ATF6, ATF4, CHOP, Cas-12, Cas-8, Cas-9, and Cas-3 mRNAs, markers of ERS and apoptosis (P < .0001 for all). In addition, THC has been shown to reduce inflammation in the Tre group by causing a decrease in increased cardiac TNF-α levels (P < .01). Moreover, THC prevented cardiac tissue damage by regulating the degraded oxidative stress marker levels and antioxidant enzyme activities in HI. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that THC treatment in rats with HI exhibited a significant effect in ameliorating cardiac tissue damage by improving the antioxidant defense system, inflammation, apoptosis, ERS, and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Mine Coskun Yazici
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Karolin Yanar
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sema Bolkent
- Department of Medical Biology, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Reisdorph N, Doenges K, Levens C, Manke J, Armstrong M, Smith H, Quinn K, Radcliffe R, Reisdorph R, Saba L, Kuhn KA. Oral Cannabis consumption and intraperitoneal THC:CBD dosing results in changes in brain and plasma neurochemicals and endocannabinoids in mice. J Cannabis Res 2024; 6:10. [PMID: 38429800 PMCID: PMC10908076 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-024-00219-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the use of orally consumed Cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) containing products, i.e. "edibles", has expanded, the health consequences are still largely unknown. This study examines the effects of oral consumption of whole Cannabis and a complex Cannabis extract on neurochemicals, endocannabinoids (eCB), and physiological parameters (body temperature, heart rate) in mice. METHODS In this pilot study, C57BL/6 J mice were treated with one of the following every other day for 2 weeks: a complex Cannabis extract by gavage, whole Cannabis mixed with nutritional gel through free feeding, or purified THC/CBD by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Treatments were conducted at 4 doses ranging from 0-100 mg/kg/day of CBD with THC levels of ≤ 1.2 mg/kg/day for free feeding and gavage and 10 mg/kg/day for i.p. Body temperature and heart rate were monitored using surgically implanted telemetry devices. Levels of neurochemicals, eCB, THC, CBD, and 11-OH-THC were measured using mass spectrometry 48 h after the final treatment. Statistical comparisons were conducted using ANOVA and t-tests. RESULTS Differences were found between neurochemicals in the brains and plasma of mice treated by i.p. (e.g. dopamine, p < 0.01), gavage (e.g., phenylalanine, p < 0.05) and in mice receiving whole Cannabis (e.g., 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic DOPAC p < 0.05). Tryptophan trended downward or was significantly decreased in the brain and/or plasma of all mice receiving Cannabis or purified CBD/THC, regardless of dose, compared to controls. Levels of the eCB, arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) were decreased in mice receiving lowest doses of a complex Cannabis extract by gavage, but were higher in mice receiving highest doses compared to controls (p < 0.05). Plasma and brain levels of THC and 11-OH-THC were higher in mice receiving 1:1 THC:CBD by i.p. compared to those receiving 1:5 or 1:10 THC:CBD. Nominal changes in body temperature and heart rate following acute and repeated exposures were seen to some degree in all treatments. CONCLUSIONS Changes to neurochemicals and eCBs were apparent at all doses regardless of treatment type. Levels of neurochemicals seemed to vary based on the presence of a complex Cannabis extract, suggesting a non-linear response between THC and neurochemicals following repeated oral dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichole Reisdorph
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Katrina Doenges
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Cassandra Levens
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Jon Manke
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Michael Armstrong
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Harry Smith
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kevin Quinn
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Richard Radcliffe
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Richard Reisdorph
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Laura Saba
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kristine A Kuhn
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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Roeder NM, Penman SL, Richardson BJ, Wang J, Freeman-Striegel L, Khan A, Pareek O, Weiss M, Mohr P, Eiden RD, Chakraborty S, Thanos PK. Vaporized Δ9- THC in utero results in reduced birthweight, increased locomotion, and altered wake-cycle activity dependent on dose, sex, and diet in the offspring. Life Sci 2024; 340:122447. [PMID: 38246518 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Preclinical studies have found that chronic ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) treatment is directly associated with weight gain when introduced during adolescence and adulthood, but the effect of prenatal THC is unclear. Clinical studies have demonstrated prenatal exposure to THC is a prospective predictor of increased health risks associated with obesity. Our study aims to examine prenatal THC impact on obesity risks in males and females throughout adolescence using a clinically relevant inhalation model. METHODS Pregnant rats were exposed to one of the following from gestational day 2 through birth: 10 mg THC, 40 mg THC, or air. Daily 10-min inhalations were conducted in each animal from 0900 to 1200. Offspring from each treatment group were given either a high-fat diet (HFD) or a normal diet (ND). Food and bodyweights were collected daily, while circadian activity, locomotion, and exercise were measured periodically (PND 21-60). Pregnancy weight gain and birth weight were collected to determine early-life developmental effects. RESULTS Rats prenatally treated with low-dose THC (LDTHC) generally had lower dark-cycle activity compared with control counterparts, but this altered activity was not observed at the higher dose of THC (HDTHC). In terms of open-field activity, THC doses displayed a general increase in locomotion. In addition, the LDTHC male rats in the ND showed significantly greater exploratory behavior. Prenatal THC had dose-dependent effects on maternal weight gain and birth weight. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings indicate there are some activity-related and developmental effects of prenatal THC, which may be related to obesity risks later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Roeder
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Samantha L Penman
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Brittany J Richardson
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Lily Freeman-Striegel
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Anas Khan
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ojas Pareek
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Maia Weiss
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Patrick Mohr
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Rina D Eiden
- Department of Psychology and Social Science Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16801, USA
| | - Saptarshi Chakraborty
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Panayotis K Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions (BNNLA), Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA; Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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Wade NE, Wallace AL, Huestis MA, Lisdahl KM, Sullivan RM, Tapert SF. Cannabis use and neurocognitive performance at 13-14 Years-Old: Optimizing assessment with hair toxicology in the Adolescent brain cognitive development (ABCD) study. Addict Behav 2024; 150:107930. [PMID: 38091780 PMCID: PMC10829878 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cannabis is widely used, including in early adolescence, with prevalence rates varying by measurement method (e.g., toxicology vs. self-report). Critical neurocognitive development occurs throughout adolescence. Given conflicting prior brain-behavior results in cannabis research, improved measurement of cannabis use in younger adolescents is needed. METHODS Data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study Year 4 follow-up (participant age: 13-14 years-old) included hair samples assessed by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS, quantifying THCCOOH (THC metabolite), THC, and cannabidiol concentrations, and the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery. Youth whose hair was positive for cannabinoids or reported past-year cannabis use were included in a Cannabis Use (CU) group (n = 123) and matched with non-using Controls on sociodemographics (n = 123). Standard and nested ANCOVAs assessed group status predicting cognitive performance, controlling for family relationships. Follow-up correlations assessed cannabinoid hair concentration, self-reported cannabis use, and neurocognition. RESULTS CU scored lower on Picture Memory (p = .03) than Controls. Within the CU group, THCCOOH negatively correlated with Picture Vocabulary (r = -0.20, p = .03) and Flanker Inhibitory Control and Attention (r = -0.19, p = .04), and past-year cannabis use was negatively associated with List Sorting Working Memory (r = -0.33, p = .0002) and Picture Sequence Memory (r = -0.19, p = .04) performances. CONCLUSIONS Youth who had used cannabis showed lower scores on an episodic memory task, and more cannabis use was linked to poorer performances on verbal, inhibitory, working memory, and episodic memory tasks. Combining hair toxicology with self-report revealed more brain-behavior relationships than self-report data alone. These youth will be followed to determine long-term substance use and neurocognition trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha E Wade
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, USA.
| | | | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Krista M Lisdahl
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA
| | - Ryan M Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA
| | - Susan F Tapert
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, USA
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20
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Aran A, Cayam Rand D. Cannabinoid treatment for the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2024; 29:65-79. [PMID: 38226593 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2024.2306290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately 3% of school-age children. The core symptoms are deficits in social communication and restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. Associated problems in cognition, language, behavior, sleep and mood are prevalent. Currently, no established pharmacological treatment exists for core ASD symptoms. Risperidone and aripiprazole are used to manage associated irritability, but their effectiveness is limited and adverse events are common. AREAS COVERED This mini-review summarizes existing scientific literature and ongoing clinical trials concerning cannabinoid treatment for ASD. Uncontrolled case series have documented improvements in both core ASD symptoms and related behavioral challenges in children treated with cannabis extracts rich in cannabidiol (CBD). Placebo-controlled studies involving CBD-rich cannabis extracts and/or pure CBD in children with ASD have demonstrated mixed efficacy results. A similar outcome was observed in a placebo-controlled study of pure CBD addressing social avoidance in Fragile X syndrome. Importantly, these studies have shown relatively high safety and tolerability. EXPERT OPINION While current clinical data suggest the potential of CBD and CBD-rich cannabis extract in managing core and behavioral deficits in ASD, it is prudent to await the results of ongoing placebo-controlled trials before considering CBD treatment for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Aran
- Neuropediatric Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Israel School of Medicine, Hebrew university of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dalit Cayam Rand
- Neuropediatric Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Israel School of Medicine, Hebrew university of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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21
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Hueppe K, Ortman J, Gauselmann H, Santibanez S, Mankertz A. Measles vaccination - An underestimated prevention measure: Analyzing a fatal case in Hildesheim, Germany. Int J Med Microbiol 2024; 314:151608. [PMID: 38335886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2024.151608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Measles and rubella are targeted for elimination in the WHO region Europe. To reach the elimination goal, vaccination coverage of 95% must be achieved and sustained, the genotype information has to be provided for 80% of all outbreaks and transmission chains of a certain variant must not be detected for >12 months. The latter information is collected at Germany's National Reference Center Measles, Mumps, Rubella (NRC MMR). We describe here an outbreak of measles occurring in Hildesheim. The outbreak comprised 43 cases and lasted 14 weeks. Surprisingly, a high number of vaccination failures was observed since 11 cases had received two doses of the MMR vaccine and 4 additional cases were vaccinated once. A 33-year-old woman passed away during the outbreak. She was the mother of 5 children between 4 and 16 years of age. Two schoolchildren contracted measles and passed it on to the rest of the family. Due to delivery bottlenecks, the vaccination of the mother was delayed. She developed measles-like symptoms 3 days after vaccination and was found dead on the morning of day 8 after vaccination. A post-mortem examination was done to identify the cause of death. Moreover, molecular characterization of the virus was performed to analyze whether she was infected by the wildtype virus circulating at that time in Hildesheim or whether the vaccine may have been a concomitant and aggravating feature of her death. The result showed that the samples taken from her at the time of death and during necropsy contained the wildtype measles virus variant corresponding to MVs/Gir Somnath.IND/42.16 (WHO Seq-ID D8-4683) that fueled the Hildesheim outbreak and circulated in Germany from March 2018 to March 2020. The vaccine virus was not detected. Moreover, two aspects uncovered by the post-mortem examination were remarkable; the woman died from giant cell pneumonia, which is a complication seen in immune-suppressed individuals and she was actively using cannabis. THC is known to influence the immune system, but literature reports describing the effects are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Hueppe
- Local Health Authority, Hildesheim, Ludolfingerstr. 2, 31137 Hildesheim, Germany
| | - Jan Ortman
- Institute for Forensic Medicine, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hannah Gauselmann
- Brandenburgisches Landesinstitut für Rechtsmedizin, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Sabine Santibanez
- National Reference Center Measles, Mumps, Rubella; Robert Koch-Institute; Seestr. 10, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Annette Mankertz
- National Reference Center Measles, Mumps, Rubella; Robert Koch-Institute; Seestr. 10, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
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22
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Hall D, Lawn W, Ofori S, Trinci K, Borissova A, Mokrysz C, Petrilli K, Bloomfield MAP, Wall MB, Freeman TP, Curran HV. The acute effects of cannabis, with and without cannabidiol, on attentional bias to cannabis related cues: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06543-7. [PMID: 38416223 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06543-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Attentional bias to drug-related stimuli is hypothesised to contribute towards addiction. However, the acute effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on attentional bias to cannabis cues, the differential response in adults and adolescents, and the moderating effect of cannabidiol (CBD) are unknown. OBJECTIVES Our study investigated (1) the acute effects of vaporised cannabis on attentional bias to cannabis-related images in adults and adolescents and (2) the moderating influences of age and CBD. METHODS We conducted a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study where three weight-adjusted vaporised cannabis preparations: 'THC' (8 mg THC for a 75-kg person), 'THC + CBD' (8 mg THC and 24 mg CBD for a 75-kg person) and PLA (matched placebo). Cannabis was administered on 3 separate days to 48 participants, who used cannabis 0.5-3 days/week: 24 adolescents (12 females, aged 16-17) and 24 adults (12 females, aged 26-29). Participants completed a visual probe task with cannabis cues. Our primary outcome was attentional bias to cannabis stimuli, measured using the differential reaction time to a cannabis vs. neutral probe, on 200-ms trials. RESULTS In contrast to hypotheses, attention was directed away from cannabis cues on placebo, and there was a main effect of the drug (F(2,92) = 3.865, p = 0.024, η2p = 0.077), indicating THC administration eliminated this bias. There was no significant impact of CBD nor an age-by-drug interaction. CONCLUSIONS Acute THC intoxication eliminated attentional bias away from cannabis cues. There was no evidence of differential response in adolescents compared to adults and no evidence that a moderate vaporised dose of CBD altered the impact of cannabis on attentional bias. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was listed with the US National Library of Medicine and registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, URL: Do Adolescents and Adults Differ in Their Acute Response to Cannabis?-Full Text View-ClinicalTrials.gov, registration number: NCT04851392.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hall
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Daniel Hall, Springfield University Hospital, 15 Springfield Drive, London, SW17 0YF, UK
| | - Will Lawn
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - Shelan Ofori
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Katie Trinci
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anya Borissova
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, University College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Claire Mokrysz
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kat Petrilli
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, London, UK
| | - Michael A P Bloomfield
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, University College Hospital, London, UK
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew B Wall
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Invicro London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, London, UK
| | - H Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK.
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Fuentes-Verdugo E, Pellón R, Miguéns M. Repeated Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol administration dose dependently increases stablished schedule-induced drinking. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06563-3. [PMID: 38413456 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06563-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Schedule-induced drinking (SID) reproduces an excessive and repetitive behavioural pattern that has led to propose this procedure as an animal model to study compulsive behaviours. Although it is known that cannabis can cause several adverse effects, in recent years there has been great interest in the medical application of cannabis derivatives for obsessive-compulsive related disorders. OBJECTIVES The present study investigated the effects of repeated THC administration on rates of previously acquired SID, as well as the possible alteration of its temporal distribution along inter-food intervals. METHODS Male Wistar rats acquired SID under a 30 min fixed-time 30-sec food delivery schedule (from 30 to 43 sessions to reach a stable level). Thereafter, 5 or 10 mg/kg daily i.p. injections of THC or vehicle were repeatedly administered for 7 days to evaluate the effects on SID. RESULTS Repeated THC administration at a dose of 5 mg/kg resulted in an increase on licking. Surprisingly, no effects on SID were observed with the 10 mg/kg dose. However, magazine entries were reduced with both THC doses. THC also modified the temporal distributions of licking and magazine entries during inter-food intervals. CONCLUSIONS The present results show that repeated THC administration may (i) increase induced licking at moderate doses, (ii) reduce magazine entries, and (iii) affect the temporal pattern of SID. These findings suggest that THC does not appear to be beneficial to reduce compulsive behaviour in this animal model, while another collateral effect of THC -such as a greater habitual-like behaviour- needs to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmeralda Fuentes-Verdugo
- Departamento de Psicología Básica I, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), C/ Juan del Rosal 10, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Ricardo Pellón
- Departamento de Psicología Básica I, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), C/ Juan del Rosal 10, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Miguel Miguéns
- Departamento de Psicología Básica I, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), C/ Juan del Rosal 10, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
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Suraev A, McCartney D, Kevin R, Gordon R, Grunstein RR, Hoyos CM, McGregor IS. Detection of Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC) in oral fluid using two point-of-collection testing devices following oral administration of a THC and cannabidiol containing oil. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38414100 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Point-of-collection testing (POCT) devices are widely used in roadside and workplace drug testing to identify recent cannabis use by measuring the presence of Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in oral fluid (OF). However, the performance of POCT devices with oral medicinal cannabis products remains poorly described. In a randomised, double-blinded, crossover trial, adults with insomnia disorder (n = 20) received a single (2 mL) oral dose of oil containing 10 mg THC + 200 mg cannabidiol, or placebo, prior to sleep. Participants were tested with the Securetec DrugWipe® 5S (10 ng/mL THC cut-off) and Dräger DrugTest® 5000 (25 ng/mL THC cut-off) POCT devices at baseline (pre-treatment) and then at 0.5, 10, and 18 h post-treatment. An OF sample, taken at each time point, was also analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Large individual variability in OF THC concentrations was observed 0.5 h post-treatment (range: 0-425 ng/mL; mean (SD) 48.7 (107.5) ng/mL). Both the Securetec DrugWipe® 5S and DrugTest® 5000 demonstrated poor sensitivity to THC at 0.5 h post-treatment (25% and 50%, respectively). At 10 and 18 h post-treatment, all participant OF THC concentrations were below screening cut-offs, and all test results were negative. These findings highlight the relatively poor sensitivity of both devices in detecting recent use of an oral medicinal cannabis product. They also suggest a low probability of obtaining a positive THC result the morning after ('one-off') use. Further research is required to establish the probability of obtaining a positive THC result with regular medicinal cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Suraev
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Sleep and Chronobiology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Danielle McCartney
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Kevin
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Gordon
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ronald R Grunstein
- Centre for Sleep and Chronobiology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Camilla M Hoyos
- Centre for Sleep and Chronobiology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Human Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Lee J. Tetrahydrocannabinol and dopamine D1 receptor. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1360205. [PMID: 38419666 PMCID: PMC10899378 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1360205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Dopamine is a hormone that is released by the adrenal gland and influences motor control and motivation. Dopamine is known to have 5 receptors which are D1, D2, D3, D4 and D5, which are further categorized into 2 families: D1 family and D2 family. The D1 family is known to play a role in motivation and motor control whereas the D2 family is known to affect attention and sleep. THC, a type of cannabinoid, can lead to feelings of euphoria, anxiety, fear, distrust, or panic. THC is known to affect dopamine in regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and plays a role in fundamental cognitive processes. Although there is a vast amount of research between the relationship of THC on dopamine, there continues to be limited research in relation to THC on dopamine receptors. The D1 receptor plays a role in several essential functions, such as memory, attention, impulse control, regulation of renal function, and locomotion. Accordingly, this review is intended to summarize the relationship between THC and D1 receptors, highlighting key gaps in the literature and avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Lee
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
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da Silva MES, Christianetti B, Amazonas E, Pereira ML. Case report: Cannabinoid therapy for discoid lupus erythematosus in a dog. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1309167. [PMID: 38406630 PMCID: PMC10884172 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1309167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a common autoimmune skin disease in dogs. Conventional treatments, such as corticosteroids, can be effective but often have side effects. This case report presents a successful use of cannabinoid therapy (CT) in a dog with DLE resistant to conventional treatment. A 2-year-old mixed-breed dog with a history of DLE presented with worsening lesions despite treatment with corticosteroids and other medications. Liver enzymes levels were elevated, indicating corticosteroid-induced side effects. CT with a CBD-rich full spectrum Cannabis oil was initiated. The dosage was gradually adjusted until the minimum effective dose was found. Within a few weeks of starting CT, the dog showed significant improvement in skin lesions and in liver enzymes levels. After 1 year, the dog remains clinically stable on a low dose of full-spectrum CBD-rich oil. No evidence of DLE recurrence was observed. This case suggests that CT may be a viable alternative or complementary therapy for DLE in dogs, particularly for those experiencing adverse effects from conventional treatments. Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of CT for DLE management in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruna Christianetti
- Veterinary Medicine Student, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Curitibanos, Brazil
| | - Erik Amazonas
- Department of Biosciences and One Health, Center for Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Curitibanos, Brazil
- Cannabis Development and Innovation Center (PODICAN/UFSC), Curitibanos, Brazil
| | - Marcy Lancia Pereira
- Department of Biosciences and One Health, Center for Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Curitibanos, Brazil
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Moreno-Fernández M, Ucha M, Reis-de-Paiva R, Marcos A, Ambrosio E, Higuera-Matas A. Lack of interactions between prenatal immune activation and Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure during adolescence in behaviours relevant to symptom dimensions of schizophrenia in rats. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 129:110889. [PMID: 37918558 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The causality in the association between cannabis use and the risk of developing schizophrenia has been the subject of intense debate in the last few years. The development of animal models recapitulating several aspects of the disease is crucial for shedding light on this issue. Given that maternal infections are a known risk for schizophrenia, here, we used the maternal immune activation (MIA) model combined with THC exposure during adolescence to examine several behaviours in rats (working memory in the Y maze, sociability in the three-chamber test, sucrose preference as a measure, prepulse inhibition and formation of incidental associations) that are similar to the different symptom clusters of the disease. To this end, we administered LPS to pregnant dams and when the offspring reached adolescence, we exposed them to a mild dose of THC to examine their behaviour in adulthood. We also studied several parameters in the dams, including locomotor activity in the open field, elevated plus maze performance and their response to LPS, that could predict symptom severity of the offspring, but found no evidence of any predictive value of these variables. In the adult offspring, MIA was associated with impaired working memory and sensorimotor gating, but surprisingly, it increased sociability, social novelty and sucrose preference. THC, on its own, impaired sociability and social memory, but there were no interactions between MIA and THC exposure. These results suggest that, in this model, THC during adolescence does not trigger or aggravate symptoms related to schizophrenia in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Moreno-Fernández
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain; UNED International Graduate School (EIDUNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcos Ucha
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Raquel Reis-de-Paiva
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Marcos
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilio Ambrosio
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Higuera-Matas
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, National University for Distance Learning (UNED), Madrid, Spain.
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Bardhi K, Coates S, Chen G, Lazarus P. Cannabinoid-Induced Stereoselective Inhibition of R-S-Oxazepam Glucuronidation: Cannabinoid-Oxazepam Drug Interactions. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:243. [PMID: 38399297 PMCID: PMC10892093 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Benzodiazepines (BZDs) such as oxazepam are commonly prescribed depressant drugs known for their anxiolytic, hypnotic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects and are frequently used in conjunction with other illicit drugs including cannabis. Oxazepam is metabolized in an enantiomeric-specific manner by glucuronidation, with S-oxazepam metabolized primarily by UGT2B15 and R-oxazepam glucuronidation mediated by both UGT 1A9 and 2B7. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the potential inhibitory effects of major cannabinoids, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and major THC metabolites, 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-COOH-THC), on the UGT-mediated metabolism of R- and S-oxazepam. The cannabinoids and metabolites were screened as inhibitors of R- and S-oxazepam glucuronidation in microsomes isolated from HEK293 cells overexpressing individual UGT enzymes (rUGTs). The IC50 values were determined in human liver microsomes (HLM), human kidney microsomes (HKM), and rUGTs and utilized to estimate the nonspecific, binding-corrected Ki (Ki,u) values and predict the area under the concentration-time curve ratio (AUCR). The estimated Ki,u values observed in HLM for S- and R-oxazepam glucuronidation by CBD, 11-OH-THC, and THC were in the micromolar range (0.82 to 3.7 µM), with the Ki,u values observed for R-oxazepam glucuronidation approximately 2- to 5-fold lower as compared to those observed for S-oxazepam glucuronidation. The mechanistic static modeling predicted a potential clinically significant interaction between oral THC and CBD with oxazepam, with the AUCR values ranging from 1.25 to 3.45. These data suggest a pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction when major cannabinoids like CBD or THC and oxazepam are concurrently administered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Philip Lazarus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Washington State University, 412 E. Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
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Sainz-Cort A, Jimenez-Garrido D, Muñoz-Marron E, Viejo-Sobera R, Heeroma J, Bouso JC. The Effects of Cannabidiol and δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Social Cognition: A Naturalistic Controlled Study. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:230-240. [PMID: 35881851 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Social cognition abilities such as empathy and the Theory of Mind (ToM) have been shown to be impaired in neuropsychiatric conditions such as psychotic, autistic, and bipolar disorders. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) seems to play a role in social behavior and emotional processing while it also seems to play a role in those neuropsychiatric conditions showing social cognition impairments. Main plant cannabinoids delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) modulate the ECS and, due to their opposite effects, have been proposed as both cause and treatment for neuropsychiatric-related disorders such as schizophrenia, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aim of this study was to test the effects of THC and CBD on social cognition abilities in chronic cannabis users. Method: Eighteen members from a cannabis social club were tested for social cognition effects under the effects of different full spectrum cannabis extracts containing either THC, CBD, THC+CBD, or placebo in a naturalistic randomized double-blind crossover placebo-controlled study. Results: Results showed that participants under the effects of THC showed lower cognitive empathy when compared with the effects of CBD but not when those were compared with THC+CBD or placebo. Also, participants showed higher cognitive ToM under the effects of CBD when compared with the effects of placebo, but not when those were compared with THC or THC+CBD. However, we did not find differences on the emotional scales for empathy or ToM. Conclusions: This study provides evidence for the interaction between the effects of THC and CBD and social cognition abilities in a naturalistic environment, which can be of special interest for the clinical practice of medical cannabis on neuropsychiatric disorders. We show for the first time that CBD can improve ToM abilities in chronic cannabis users. Our results might help to understand the role of the ECS in social cognition, and their association with psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia or autism. Finally, we demonstrate how reliable methodologies can be implemented in naturalistic environments to collect valid ecological evidence outside classic laboratory settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Sainz-Cort
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Barcelona, Spain
- International Center of Ethnobotanic Education, Research and Service (ICEERS), Barcelona, Spain
- GH Medical, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Jimenez-Garrido
- International Center of Ethnobotanic Education, Research and Service (ICEERS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Muñoz-Marron
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Viejo-Sobera
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Jose Carlos Bouso
- International Center of Ethnobotanic Education, Research and Service (ICEERS), Barcelona, Spain
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30
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Chester LA, Englund A, Chesney E, Oliver D, Wilson J, Sovi S, Dickens AM, Oresic M, Linderman T, Hodsoll J, Minichino A, Strang J, Murray RM, Freeman TP, McGuire P. Effects of Cannabidiol and Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol on Plasma Endocannabinoid Levels in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized Double-Blind Four-Arm Crossover Study. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:188-198. [PMID: 36493386 PMCID: PMC10874814 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The effects of cannabis are thought to be mediated by interactions between its constituents and the endocannabinoid system. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) binds to central cannabinoid receptors, while cannabidiol (CBD) may influence endocannabinoid function without directly acting on cannabinoid receptors. We examined the effects of THC coadministered with different doses of CBD on plasma levels of endocannabinoids in healthy volunteers. Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, four-arm crossover study, healthy volunteers (n=46) inhaled cannabis vapor containing 10 mg THC plus either 0, 10, 20, or 30 mg CBD, in four experimental sessions. The median time between sessions was 14 days (IQR=20). Blood samples were taken precannabis inhalation and at 0-, 5-, 15-, and 90-min postinhalation. Plasma concentrations of THC, CBD, anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and related noncannabinoid lipids were measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: Administration of cannabis induced acute increases in plasma concentrations of anandamide (+18.0%, 0.042 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.023-0.062]), and the noncannabinoid ethanolamides, docosatetraenylethanolamide (DEA; +35.8%, 0.012 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.008-0.016]), oleoylethanolamide (+16.1%, 0.184 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.076-0.293]), and N-arachidonoyl-L-serine (+25.1%, 0.011 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.004-0.017]) (p<0.05). CBD had no significant effect on the plasma concentration of anandamide, 2-AG or related noncannabinoid lipids at any of three doses used. Over the four sessions, there were progressive decreases in the preinhalation concentrations of anandamide and DEA, from 0.254 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.223-0.286] to 0.194 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.163-0.226], and from 0.039 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.032-0.045] to 0.027 ng/mL [95%CI: 0.020-0.034] (p<0.05), respectively. Discussion: THC induced acute increases in plasma levels of anandamide and noncannabinoid ethanolamides, but there was no evidence that these effects were influenced by the coadministration of CBD. It is possible that such effects may be evident with higher doses of CBD or after chronic administration. The progressive reduction in pretreatment anandamide and DEA levels across sessions may be related to repeated exposure to THC or participants becoming less anxious about the testing procedure and requires further investigation. The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05170217).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy A. Chester
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amir Englund
- National Addiction Centre (NAC), Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Edward Chesney
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic Oliver
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jack Wilson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simina Sovi
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alex M. Dickens
- Turku Bioscience Center, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Matej Oresic
- Turku Bioscience Center, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Tuomas Linderman
- Turku Bioscience Center, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - John Hodsoll
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amedeo Minichino
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - John Strang
- National Addiction Centre (NAC), Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin M. Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tom P. Freeman
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Philip McGuire
- Department of Psychosis Studies and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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31
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Metrik J, McCarthy DM. How research and policy can shape driving under the influence of cannabis. Addiction 2024; 119:208-210. [PMID: 37877315 DOI: 10.1111/add.16372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Metrik
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Denis M McCarthy
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Hidding U, Mainka T, Buhmann C. Therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurological diseases: a clinical update. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:117-126. [PMID: 38015317 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02719-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The use of medical Cannabis has increased in recent years due to changing legal circumstances in many countries. Approval exists only for a few neurological conditions such as rare forms of epilepsy or spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Beyond that, however, medical Cannabis is used for a wide range of neurological conditions and symptoms. In Germany, in parallel with new legislation that has simplified the prescription of medical Cannabis, an accompanying survey has been implemented for which initial data are now available. In this context, our review provides an overview of the evidence for the therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurology, the potential benefits, and side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ute Hidding
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tina Mainka
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology at the Charité, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Clinician Scientist Program, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Buhmann
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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Moore CF, Davis CM, Sempio C, Klawitter J, Christians U, Weerts EM. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Vapor Exposure Produces Conditioned Place Preference in Male and Female Rats. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:111-120. [PMID: 36179013 PMCID: PMC10874829 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The use of place conditioning procedures and drug vapor exposure models can increase our understanding of the rewarding and aversive effects of vaped cannabis products. Currently there are limited data on the conditioned rewarding effects of vaporized Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis in rats, and no studies to date examining sex differences. Methods: Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats (N=96; 12 per sex/group) underwent place conditioning sessions immediately after exposure to THC or vehicle (propylene glycol [PG]) vapor. Locomotor activity was measured by beam breaks during conditioning sessions. THC vapor-conditioned rats received one of three THC vapor exposure amounts (low: 5 puffs of 100 mg/mL THC, medium: 5 puffs of 200 mg/mL THC, or high: 10 puffs of 200 mg/mL THC) and matched vehicle vapor (PG) exposure on alternate days for 16 daily sessions. A "no THC" control group of vehicle-conditioned rats received only PG vapor exposure each day. After the 8th and 16th conditioning sessions, untreated rats were tested for conditioned place preference (CPP) or aversion (CPA). Next, extinction tests and a THC vapor-primed reinstatement test were conducted. Results: THC vapor produced CPP and locomotor effects in an exposure dependent manner, and some sex differences were observed. Low THC vapor exposure did not produce CPP in males or females. Medium THC vapor exposure produced CPP in males, but not females. High THC vapor exposure produced CPP in both males and females. Medium and high THC vapor exposure amounts produced hyperactivity in female rats, but not male rats. CPP was more resistant to extinction in females than males. THC vapor reexposure (i.e., drug-prime) after extinction did not result in reinstatement of CPP for either sex. Conclusion: This study demonstrates conditioned rewarding effects of THC vapor in both male and female rats and provides evidence for sex differences in amounts of THC vapor that produce CPP and in time to extinction. CPA was not observed at any of the THC vapor exposure amounts tested. These data provide a foundation for future exploration of the conditioned effects of cannabis constituents and extracts using vapor exposure models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F. Moore
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Catherine M. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Cristina Sempio
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jost Klawitter
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Uwe Christians
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Oliver D, Englund A, Chesney E, Chester L, Wilson J, Sovi S, Wigroth S, Hodsoll J, Strang J, Murray RM, Freeman TP, Fusar‐Poli P, McGuire P. Cannabidiol does not attenuate acute delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced attentional bias in healthy volunteers: A randomised, double-blind, cross-over study. Addiction 2024; 119:322-333. [PMID: 37821096 PMCID: PMC10952555 DOI: 10.1111/add.16353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To test how attentional bias and explicit liking are influenced by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and whether these effects are moderated by cannabidiol (CBD). DESIGN Double-blind, randomised, within-subjects cross-over study. SETTING NIHR Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility at King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom. PARTICIPANTS/CASES Forty-six infrequent cannabis users (cannabis use <1 per week). INTERVENTION(S) Across four sessions, participants inhaled vaporised cannabis containing 10 mg of THC and either 0 mg (0:1 CBD:THC), 10 mg (1:1), 20 mg (2:1) or 30 mg (3:1) of CBD, administered in a randomised order and counter-balanced across participants (a total of 24 order groups). MEASUREMENTS Participants completed two tasks: (1) Attentional Bias (AB), comparing reaction times toward visual probes presented behind 28 target stimuli (cannabis/food) compared with probes behind corresponding non-target (neutral) stimuli. Participants responding more quickly to probes behind target than non-target stimuli would indicate greater attentional bias to cannabis/food; (2) Picture Rating (PR), where all AB stimuli were rated on a 7-point pleasantness scale, measuring explicit liking. FINDINGS During the AB task, participants were more biased toward cannabis stimuli in the 0:1 condition compared with baseline (mean difference = 12.2, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] = 1.20-23.3, d = 0.41, P = 0.03). No other significant AB or PR differences were found between cannabis and food stimuli between baseline and 0:1 condition (P > 0.05). No significant CBD effect was found on AB or PR task performance at any dose (P > 0.05). There was additionally no cumulative effect of THC exposure on AB or PR outcomes (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS A double-blind, randomised, cross-over study among infrequent cannabis users found that inhaled delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol increased attentional bias toward cannabis in the absence of explicit liking, a marker of liability toward cannabis use disorder. At the concentrations normally found in legal and illegal cannabis, cannabidiol had no influence on this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Oliver
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research CentreOxfordUK
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Amir Englund
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Edward Chesney
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Lucy Chester
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
- Laboratoire Didier Jutras‐AswadCentre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de MontréalMontréalQCCanada
| | - Jack Wilson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, Level 6, Jane Foss Russell Building, G02The University of SydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Simina Sovi
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Stina Wigroth
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - John Hodsoll
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - John Strang
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
- South London and the Maudsley National Health Service Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Robin M. Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Tom P. Freeman
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Paolo Fusar‐Poli
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
- South London and the Maudsley National Health Service Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of Brain and Behavioural SciencesUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
- Department of Psychiatry and PsychotherapyLudwig‐Maximilian‐University MunichMunichGermany
| | - Philip McGuire
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research CentreOxfordUK
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Karoly HC, Prince MA, Conner BT. Alcohol First, Cannabis Last: Identification of an Especially Risky Use Pattern among Individuals Who Co-Use Alcohol and Cannabis. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:343-352. [PMID: 37853738 PMCID: PMC10842110 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2270674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Background: Alcohol and cannabis co-use is common and confers increased risk for potential harms, such as negative consequences and substance dependence. The existing evidence suggests that factors such as dose of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) consumed and order of use of each substance (i.e., using alcohol or cannabis first or last when co-using) may impact co-use outcomes. Existing co-use research has focused primarily on college-samples or young adults, and few studies have explored these nuanced relations among community samples. Methods: We examined survey data from 87 community members (mean age 32.9 years, 49.4% female) recruited from legal market cannabis dispensaries. Using a combination of regression techniques (i.e., OLS, negative binomial, censor-inflated) we modeled relations among co-use ordering patterns, THC dose and cannabis outcomes as well as interactions with sex assigned at birth and age. Results: Individuals who endorsed co-use reported significantly higher CUDIT scores than those who had never co-used (p < 0.01). Using alcohol first and cannabis last (a pattern we refer to as "AFCL") was more common among females than males (p < 0.01). In the context of typical substance use weeks, more frequently engaging in the AFCL pattern was associated with significantly higher CUDIT scores (p < 0.001) and negatively predicted positive consequences (p < 0.001). Other patterns predicted higher CUDIT scores during heavy use weeks. Conclusions: Results indicate that co-use ordering patterns are related to substance use outcomes. Further research leveraging within-subjects, longitudinal designs is needed to test causal relations between these variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hollis C. Karoly
- Colorado State University, Department of Psychology, Fort Collins CO, 80525
| | - Mark A. Prince
- Colorado State University, Department of Psychology, Fort Collins CO, 80525
| | - Bradley T. Conner
- Colorado State University, Department of Psychology, Fort Collins CO, 80525
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Velechovský J, Malík M, Šenkyřík JB, Tlustoš P. Effect of augmented nutrient composition and fertigation system on biomass yield and cannabinoid content of medicinal cannabis ( Cannabis sativa L.) cultivation. Front Plant Sci 2024; 15:1322824. [PMID: 38328699 PMCID: PMC10847352 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1322824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Growing evidence underscores the role of nutrients and fertigation systems in soilless production, influencing medicinal cannabis biomass and secondary metabolite content. This study delves into the impact of enhanced nutrient regimes on the 'ionome' and its ramifications for biomass and cannabinoid production in medicinal cannabis, comparing two distinct fertigation systems: recirculation and drain-to-waste. Notably, we assess the optimal harvest time for maximizing profitability. In comparing the experimental variant with elevated levels of phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and iron (Fe) in the nutrient solution to the control variant, we observe distinct patterns in element composition across stems, leaves, and flowers, with significant differences between fertigation systems. Total nitrogen content was determined through the Kjeldahl method. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) were employed for elemental analysis. Cannabinoid identification and quantification used high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode-array detector (HPLC/DAD). Followed statistical analyses included ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test. Although the augmented nutrient regimen does not substantially increase plant biomass, interesting differences emerge between the two fertigation systems. The recirculation fertigation system proves more profitable during the recommended harvest period. Nonetheless, the altered nutrient regime does not yield statistically significant differences in final inflorescence harvest mass or cannabinoid concentrations in medicinal cannabis. The choice of fertigation system influences the quantity and quality of harvested inflorescence. To optimize the balance between the dry biomass yield of flowers and cannabinoid concentration, primarily total THC yield (sum of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol), we propose the 11th week of cultivation as the suitable harvest time for the recirculation system. Importantly, the recirculation system consistently outperformed the drain-to-waste system, especially after the ninth week, resulting in significantly higher total THC yields. Enriched nutrition, when compared with control, increased THC yield up to 50.7%, with a remarkable 182% surge in the recirculation system when compared with the drain-to-waste system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiří Velechovský
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Matěj Malík
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | | | - Pavel Tlustoš
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
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Desmedt B, Van Campenhout P, Deconinck E. A systematic review of analytical methodologies capable of analysing phytocannabinoids in cosmetics. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38229238 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
As cannabidiol (CBD) is not considered to be a drug and because of its potential health claims, it is an interesting compound that is often found in cosmetics. However, the safety of CBD, as well as the presence of trace amounts of other phytocannabinoids, including the psychoactive substance ∆9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is still being debated. A robust analytical technique capable of analysing cosmetic products and determining their phytocannabinoid content will be crucial in assessing the safety of these products. This systematic review aims to highlight the current analytical tools that could be used to analyse phytocannabinoids in cosmetics. The ideal method would be able to analyse high levels of CBD in combination with trace levels of THC and their acids. The method should provide good recoveries and accuracies in a variety of matrices while providing information on up-coming phytocannabinoids such as cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN). The systematic review approach was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analyses method. The research focused on studies published from January 2010 to December 2022 in PubMed and Scopus. A total of 15 datasets met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were tabulated to allow easy comparison. Although some of the reviewed methods can handle multiple matrices and provide satisfactory recoveries, this review process did not identify an ideal method. The most suitable methods either could not quantify phytocannabinoid acids or were not sensitive enough to quantify trace levels of psychoactive phytocannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Desmedt
- Medicines and Health Products, Scientific Direction Physical and Chemical Health risks, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Van Campenhout
- Medicines and Health Products, Scientific Direction Physical and Chemical Health risks, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eric Deconinck
- Medicines and Health Products, Scientific Direction Physical and Chemical Health risks, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
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Al-Khazaleh AK, Jaye K, Chang D, Münch GW, Bhuyan DJ. Buds and Bugs: A Fascinating Tale of Gut Microbiota and Cannabis in the Fight against Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:872. [PMID: 38255944 PMCID: PMC10815411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Emerging research has revealed a complex bidirectional interaction between the gut microbiome and cannabis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota can significantly influence the pharmacological effects of cannabinoids. One notable finding is the ability of the gut microbiota to metabolise cannabinoids, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This metabolic transformation can alter the potency and duration of cannabinoid effects, potentially impacting their efficacy in cancer treatment. Additionally, the capacity of gut microbiota to activate cannabinoid receptors through the production of secondary bile acids underscores its role in directly influencing the pharmacological activity of cannabinoids. While the literature reveals promising avenues for leveraging the gut microbiome-cannabis axis in cancer therapy, several critical considerations must be accounted for. Firstly, the variability in gut microbiota composition among individuals presents a challenge in developing universal treatment strategies. The diversity in gut microbiota may lead to variations in cannabinoid metabolism and treatment responses, emphasising the need for personalised medicine approaches. The growing interest in understanding how the gut microbiome and cannabis may impact cancer has created a demand for up-to-date, comprehensive reviews to inform researchers and healthcare practitioners. This review provides a timely and invaluable resource by synthesizing the most recent research findings and spotlighting emerging trends. A thorough examination of the literature on the interplay between the gut microbiome and cannabis, specifically focusing on their potential implications for cancer, is presented in this review to devise innovative and effective therapeutic strategies for managing cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad K. Al-Khazaleh
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
| | - Kayla Jaye
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
| | - Gerald W. Münch
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
| | - Deep Jyoti Bhuyan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (A.K.A.-K.); (K.J.); (D.C.)
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
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Gitlow S, Bunt G, Dowling F. Mandating reimbursement for non-FDA-regulated cannabis is bad public policy. J Addict Dis 2024; 42:71-74. [PMID: 38115193 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2023.2282032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
An influential cannabis lobby and its allies are engaged in an aggressive initiative to mandate health and worker's compensation insurance coverage for non-standardized, non-FDA-regulated cannabis products. If successful, mandated reimbursement would present a severe public health risk and force taxpayers to fund a risky and under-regulated industry. Leaders in psychiatry and other medical specialties have sounded the alarm about the marketing and sale of cannabis products for medical uses without prior review by the FDA. We echo their strong opposition to bills requiring workers' compensation carriers and health insurance plans to cover the cost of dispensary-purchased "medical" cannabis. Mandated insurance reimbursement of dispensary products is "a recipe for a public health disaster, as lowering or eliminating out-of-pocket costs will encourage more consumers to become certified under a state's medical cannabis program, and result in more frequent use of higher-potency cannabinoids (e.g., THC and CBD) that are associated with serious adverse events." Until there are thorough studies into these products, including adverse events, side effects and long-term concerns, these products should not be considered appropriate alternatives to FDA-approved medications. Their use should not be encouraged nor paid for through mandated reimbursement by public or private third-party payers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gregory Bunt
- International Society of Addiction Medicine, New York, NY
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40
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Yadav-Samudrala BJ, Gorman BL, Dodson H, Ramineni S, Wallace ED, Peace MR, Poklis JL, Jiang W, Fitting S. Effects of acute Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabinol on behavior and the endocannabinoid system in HIV-1 Tat transgenic female and male mice. Brain Res 2024; 1822:148638. [PMID: 37858856 PMCID: PMC10873064 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use is highly prevalent especially among people living with HIV (PLWH). Activation of the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective endocannabinoid system by phytocannabinoids, i.e. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been proposed to reduce HIV symptoms. However, THC's effects on HIV-related memory deficits are unclear. Using HIV-1 Tat transgenic mice, the current study investigates acute THC effects on various behavioral outcomes and the endocannabinoid system. For the rodent tetrad model, THC doses (1, 3, 10 mg/kg) induced known antinociceptive effects, with Tat induction increasing antinociceptive THC effects at 3 and 10 mg/kg doses. Only minor or no effects were noted for acute THC on body temperature, locomotor activity, and coordination. Increased anxiety-like behavior was found for females compared to males, but acute THC had no effect on anxiety. Object recognition memory was diminished by acute THC in Tat(-) females but not Tat(+) females, without affecting males. The endocannabinoid system and related lipids were not affected by acute THC, except for THC-induced decreases in CB1R protein expression levels in the spinal cord of Tat(-) mice. Female sex and Tat induction was associated with elevated 2-AG, AEA, AA, CB1R, CB2R, FAAH and/or MAGL expression in various brain regions. Further, AEA levels in the prefrontal cortex of Tat(+) females were negatively associated with object recognition memory. Overall, findings indicate that acute THC exerts differential effects on antinociception and memory, dependent on sex and HIV Tat expression, potentially in relation to an altered endocannabinoid system, which may be of relevance in view of potential cannabis-based treatment options for PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barkha J Yadav-Samudrala
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Benjamin L Gorman
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Hailey Dodson
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Shreya Ramineni
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - E Diane Wallace
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Michelle R Peace
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Justin L Poklis
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Sylvia Fitting
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Manning B, Downey LA, Narayan A, Hayley AC. A systematic review of oculomotor deficits associated with acute and chronic cannabis use. Addict Biol 2024; 29:e13359. [PMID: 38221807 PMCID: PMC10898834 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Driving is a critical everyday task necessitating the rapid and seamless integration of dynamic visually derived information to guide neurobehaviour. Biological markers are frequently employed to detect Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) consumption among drivers during roadside tests, despite not necessarily indicating impairment. Characterising THC-specific alterations to oculomotor behaviour may offer a more sensitive measure for indexing drug-related impairment, necessitating discrimination between acute THC effects, chronic use and potential tolerance effects. The present review aims to synthesise current evidence on the acute and chronic effects of THC on driving-relevant oculomotor behaviour. The review was prospectively registered (10.17605/OSF.IO/A4H9W), and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines informed reporting standards. Overall, 20 included articles comprising 12 experimental acute dosing trials, 5 cross-sectional chronic use studies and 3 roadside epidemiological studies examined the effects of cannabis/THC on oculomotor parameters including saccadic activity gaze behaviour, nystagmus, smooth pursuit and eyelid/blink characteristics. Acute THC consumption selectively impacts oculomotor control, notably increasing saccadic latency and inaccuracy and impairing inhibitory control. Chronic cannabis users, especially those with early age of use onset, display enduring oculomotor deficits that affect visual scanning efficiency. The presence of eyelid tremors appears to be a reliable indicator of cannabis consumption while remaining distinct from direct impairment associated with visual attention and motor control. Cannabis selectively influences oculomotor activity relevant to driving, highlighting the role of cannabinoid systems in these processes. Defining cannabis/THC-specific changes in oculomotor control may enhance the precision of roadside impairment assessments and vehicle safety systems to detect drug-related impairment and assess driving fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Manning
- Centre for Mental Health and Brain Science, School of Health SciencesSwinburne University of TechnologyHawthornVictoriaAustralia
- International Council for Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety (ICADTS)RotterdamNetherlands
| | - Luke A. Downey
- Centre for Mental Health and Brain Science, School of Health SciencesSwinburne University of TechnologyHawthornVictoriaAustralia
- Institute for Breathing and SleepAustin HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Andrea Narayan
- Centre for Mental Health and Brain Science, School of Health SciencesSwinburne University of TechnologyHawthornVictoriaAustralia
| | - Amie C. Hayley
- Centre for Mental Health and Brain Science, School of Health SciencesSwinburne University of TechnologyHawthornVictoriaAustralia
- International Council for Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety (ICADTS)RotterdamNetherlands
- Institute for Breathing and SleepAustin HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Zufferey F, Buitrago E, Rahban R, Senn A, Stettler E, Rudaz S, Nef S, Donzé N, Thomas A, Rossier MF. Gonadotropin axis and semen quality in young Swiss men after cannabis consumption: Effect of chronicity and modulation by cannabidiol. Andrology 2024; 12:56-67. [PMID: 37042163 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While cannabis is the most widely used recreational drug in the world, the effects of phytocannabinoids on semen parameters and reproductive hormones remain controversial. Cannabinoid receptors are activated by these compounds at each level of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadotropic axis. OBJECTIVES To assess the impact of the consumption of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol on semen parameters, as well as on male reproductive hormone and endocannabinoid levels, in a cohort of young Swiss men. MATERIALS AND METHODS The individuals in a Swiss cohort were divided according to their cannabis consumption. In the cannabis user group, we determined the delay between the last intake of cannabis and sample collection, the chronicity of use and the presence of cannabidiol in the consumed product. Urinary Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol metabolites were quantified via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Blood phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids and male steroids were determined via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry, and other hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadotropic axis hormones were determined via immunoassays. Semen parameters such as sperm concentration and motility were recorded using computer-assisted sperm analysis. RESULTS Anandamide, N-palmitoyl ethanolamide, androgens, estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin levels were all higher in cannabis users, particularly in chronic, recent and cannabidiol-positive consumers. Gonadotropin levels were not significantly different in these user subpopulations, whereas prolactin and albumin concentrations were lower. In addition, cannabis users had a more basic semen pH and a higher percentage of spermatozoa with progressive motility. However, the two latter observations seem to be related to a shorter period of sexual abstinence in this group rather than to the use of cannabis. CONCLUSIONS Because both cannabidiol and Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol are frequently used by men of reproductive age, it is highly relevant to elucidate the potential effects they may have on human reproductive health. This study demonstrates that the mode of cannabis consumption must be considered when evaluating the effect of cannabis on semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Zufferey
- Service of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology, Central Institute of Hospitals, Hospital of Valais, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Elina Buitrago
- Service of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology, Central Institute of Hospitals, Hospital of Valais, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Rita Rahban
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alfred Senn
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eric Stettler
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serge Rudaz
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universities of Geneva and Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Donzé
- Service of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology, Central Institute of Hospitals, Hospital of Valais, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Aurélien Thomas
- Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry Unit, CURML, Lausanne University Hospital, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
- Faculty Unit of Toxicology, CURML, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michel F Rossier
- Service of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology, Central Institute of Hospitals, Hospital of Valais, Sion, Switzerland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Geneva University Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
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Kelley MD, Obaid M, Miller EM, Bowie M, Heeter ZS. Observational Analysis of the Influence of Medical Marijuana Use on Quality of Life in Patients. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids 2024; 7:44-50. [PMID: 38500669 PMCID: PMC10948168 DOI: 10.1159/000536591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction A significant gap exists in the understanding and utilization of medical marijuana and its effects on a patient's quality of life. This is largely attributed to Cannabis' sp. Schedule 1 classification, which has impeded the scientific investigation of its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and quality of life. Additionally, conflicting results from previous studies highlight the need for more research to provide guidance to both patients and clinicians regarding the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana. Methods Patients over 18 years of age who were members of the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program (PAMMP) were recruited from regulated Pennsylvania medical marijuana dispensaries. Eligible patients were enrolled through informed consent, following a study design that received approval from the LECOM Institutional Review Board (IRB). Over 90 days, participants were remotely administered an electronic survey every 30 days to collect medical marijuana use patterns and assess changes in quality of life. Results Of the 103 participants who completed the study, significant improvements were observed in physical and social functioning, emotional well-being, and energy levels within the first 30 days. Participants reported significant decreases in emotional limitations, fatigue, and pain levels. Notably, participants who used inhaled or vaped products (defined as vape cartridges and concentrates) were younger and exhibited a significantly higher increase in emotional well-being scores compared to those who used flower products (defined as dry leaf only). Participants who consumed medical marijuana for opioid use demonstrated significantly higher THC consumption compared to those seeking treatment for anxiety, chronic pain, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Improvements in the first 30 days also remained constant for the remainder of the study. Discussion This study contributed valuable insights into the effects of medical marijuana on quality of life and highlighted potential benefits associated with its use. Moreover, ongoing research aims to assess the observed sustained improvements beyond 90 days, investigating potential long-term trends. While further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of action and long-term effects of medical marijuana, clinicians and patients can gain a better understanding of medical marijuana's therapeutic potential, enabling more informed decisions regarding its use in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Kelley
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, PA, USA
| | - Marwah Obaid
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, PA, USA
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Kapler S, Adery L, Hoftman GD, Amir CM, Grigoryan V, Cooper ZD, Bearden CE. Assessing evidence supporting cannabis harm reduction practices for adolescents at clinical high-risk for psychosis: a review and clinical implementation tool. Psychol Med 2024; 54:245-255. [PMID: 37882050 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use is consistently associated with both increased incidence of frank psychotic disorders and acute exacerbations of psychotic symptoms in healthy individuals and people with psychosis spectrum disorders. Although there is uncertainty around causality, cannabis use may be one of a few modifiable risk factors for conversion to psychotic disorders in individuals with Clinical High Risk for Psychosis (CHR-P) syndromes, characterized by functionally impairing and distressing subthreshold psychotic symptoms. To date, few recommendations beyond abstinence to reduce adverse psychiatric events associated with cannabis use have been made. This narrative review synthesizes existing scientific literature on cannabis' acute psychotomimetic effects and epidemiological associations with psychotic disorders in both CHR-P and healthy individuals to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical mental health intervention. There is compelling evidence for cannabis acutely exacerbating psychotic symptoms in CHR-P, but its impact on conversion to psychotic disorder is unclear. Current evidence supports a harm reduction approach in reducing frequency of acute psychotic-like experiences, though whether such interventions decrease CHR-P individuals' risk of conversion to psychotic disorder remains unknown. Specific recommendations include reducing frequency of use, lowering delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol content in favor of cannabidiol-only products, avoiding products with inconsistent potency like edibles, enhancing patient-provider communication about cannabis use and psychotic-like experiences, and utilizing a collaborative and individualized therapeutic approach. Despite uncertainty surrounding cannabis' causal association with psychotic disorders, cautious attempts to reduce acute psychosis risk may benefit CHR-P individuals uninterested in abstinence. Further research is needed to clarify practices associated with minimization of cannabis-related psychosis risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Kapler
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Laura Adery
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gil D Hoftman
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carolyn M Amir
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Interdepartmental Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vardui Grigoryan
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carrie E Bearden
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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45
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Young B, Zhang YV. A Direct Dilute-and-Shoot HPLC-MS/MS Method for Tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC) Metabolites. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2737:435-442. [PMID: 38036844 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3541-4_40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
The Cannabis plant has been smoked for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most well-known psychoactive cannabinoid, and the properties of other cannabinoids are becoming better understood. Due to increased exposure, hospitals and clinics will need access to rapid and accurate THC testing procedures to better inform patients and improve care. A rapid and reliable HPLC-MS/MS method was developed for the quantitative assessment of two THC metabolites (THC-COOH and THC-COO(Gluc)). The chromatographic separation was done using a short (50 × 4.6 mm) phenyl-hexyl column with positive ESI mass spectrometry analysis. To reduce interferences and improve quantitation, the assay was run using multiple reaction monitoring mode. The method was shown to be precise (<15% CV with-in day & between day), accurate (±20%) and linear (>R2 0.99) within the range of 25-8000 ng/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandy Young
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Y Victoria Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
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46
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Hughs ML, McMillin GA. 11-Nor-9-Carboxy-Δ8-Tetrahydrocannabinol, 7-Carboxy Cannabidiol, and 11-Nor-9-Carboxy-Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Urine by LC-MS/MS. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2737:161-174. [PMID: 38036820 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3541-4_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Δ8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are increasingly popular cannabinoids. Measuring metabolites in urine is an important tool for detecting use and/or exposure as well as for monitoring elimination of these two drugs. Distinguishing between the metabolite 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC-COOH) and the analogous metabolite of the more common and naturally abundant Δ9-THC: 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC-COOH) is analytically challenging due to structural similarities between the two compounds. Here, we present a method for separating the positional isomers Δ8-THC-COOH and Δ9-THC-COOH as well as 7-carboxy cannabidiol (CBD-COOH) in urine that includes reverse-phase solid-phase extraction (SPE), followed by liquid chromatographic separation with a perfluorophenyl column, and detection by tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L Hughs
- ARUP Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Gwendolyn A McMillin
- ARUP Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Scott C, Hall S, Zhou J, Lehmann C. Cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System in Early SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Long COVID-19-A Scoping Review. J Clin Med 2023; 13:227. [PMID: 38202234 PMCID: PMC10779964 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The clinical presentation of COVID-19 is variable, often including symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, fatigue, and an altered sense of smell and taste. Recently, post-acute "long" COVID-19 has emerged as a concern, with symptoms persisting beyond the acute infection. Vaccinations remain one of the most effective preventative methods against severe COVID-19 outcomes and the development of long-term COVID-19. However, individuals with underlying health conditions may not mount an adequate protective response to COVID-19 vaccines, increasing the likelihood of severe symptoms, hospitalization, and the development of long-term COVID-19 in high-risk populations. This review explores the potential therapeutic role of cannabinoids in limiting the susceptibility and severity of infection, both pre- and post-SARS-CoV-19 infection. Early in the SARS-CoV-19 infection, cannabinoids have been shown to prevent viral entry, mitigate oxidative stress, and alleviate the associated cytokine storm. Post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, cannabinoids have shown promise in treating symptoms associated with post-acute long COVID-19, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress injury, insomnia, pain, and decreased appetite. While current research primarily focuses on potential treatments for the acute phase of COVID-19, there is a gap in research addressing therapeutics for the early and post-infectious phases. This review highlights the potential for future research to bridge this gap by investigating cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system as a potential treatment strategy for both early and post-SARS-CoV-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassidy Scott
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada; (C.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Stefan Hall
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada;
| | - Juan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada; (C.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Christian Lehmann
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada; (C.S.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1X5, Canada;
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Kharrazi M, Berger K, Pearl M, Li Y, DeGuzman J, Behniwal P, Morse A, Moskalenko I, Williams RJ, She J. Prenatal Exposure to Tobacco and Cannabis in Six Race/Ethnicity Groups during the First Three Years after Legalization of Cannabis for Recreational Use in California. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 21:11. [PMID: 38276799 PMCID: PMC10815235 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
There are known health concerns linked to prenatal tobacco and cannabis exposures. This study aims to objectively determine the level of exposure to tobacco and cannabis in pregnant individuals from six race/ethnicity groups (Black, Hispanic, Asian Indian, Native American, Vietnamese, and White) in the first three years following legalization of recreational marijuana use in 2018 in California. We used a cross-sectional sample of prenatal screening program participants (2018-2020) from southern and central California (N = 925). Exposures were estimated by a lab analysis of cotinine (tobacco) and 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (OH-THC, cannabis) in banked serum. Disparities in tobacco exposure were evident, with Black subjects experiencing the highest smoking rate (16%) followed by Native American (10%) and White (8%) subjects, and ≤2% among Hispanic, Asian Indian, and Vietnamese subjects. Environmental tobacco exposure generally showed a similar pattern of exposure to tobacco smoking across race/ethnicity groups. Cannabis detection ranged from 5% among Hispanic subjects to 12% and 13% among White and Black subjects, respectively, and was higher among tobacco users and those exposed to environmental tobacco smoke than those with no cotinine detected. Tobacco and cannabis exposure were generally greatest in younger subjects and those with indices of a lower economic status; however, among Black subjects, cannabis exposure was greatest in older subjects and those with a higher socioeconomic status. Race/ethnicity, age, and socioeconomic factors can inform targeting of high-exposure groups for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michelle Pearl
- Environmental Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Ying Li
- Sequoia Foundation, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA
| | - Josephine DeGuzman
- Environmental Health Laboratory Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Paramjit Behniwal
- Environmental Health Laboratory Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | - Allison Morse
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
| | | | - Rebecca J Williams
- California Tobacco Prevention Program, California Department of Public Health, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
| | - Jianwen She
- Environmental Health Laboratory Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA 94804, USA
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Skumlien M, Craft S. Commentary on Allaf et al.: Comparing countries with different legal cannabis markets can inform on the impact of regulating product type and potency. Addiction 2023; 118:2275-2276. [PMID: 37544881 PMCID: PMC10952587 DOI: 10.1111/add.16312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Martine Skumlien
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of PsychologyUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Sam Craft
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of PsychologyUniversity of BathBathUK
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50
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Maglalang DD, Hu Y, Baslock D, Daus JD, Cano M, Ahluwalia JS. Recency of Cannabis Vaping in Sexual Minorities in Wave 5 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 59:136-142. [PMID: 37750356 PMCID: PMC10842009 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2262024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis vaping is increasing in the United States. Among populations at-risk are sexual minorities (SM) who are more likely to vape cannabis compared to their heterosexual counterparts. Cannabis vaping has been associated with negative health outcomes and concomitant use of other substances with increased risk with more recent use. OBJECTIVES This study examined the association between SM identification and recency of cannabis vaping (the last occasion that a participant used their vape device with cannabis) and number of puffs (the count of puffs that the participant took during their most recent use of their vape device with cannabis) using Wave 5 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study. RESULTS In a weighted sample of participants who reported ever vaping cannabis (N = 5,331), 15% identified as SM, about 60% vaped cannabis in the past 3 or more days, and the mean number of puffs was 2 (SE = 0.17). Using multinomial logistic regression and zero-inflated negative binomial regression, the results showed that compared to heterosexual adults who reported not recently vaping cannabis, SM had higher probabilities of vaping cannabis in the past 3 or more days, 1-2 days, and the day of interview. CONCLUSION SM individuals were more likely to recently vape cannabis, placing them at higher risk for respiratory diseases and use of other substances. Public health researchers and practitioners need to identify reasons for cannabis vaping in this population and implement targeted public health messaging to inform SM communities of the potential health effects of cannabis vaping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale Dagar Maglalang
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, USA
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Hu
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Baslock
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, USA
| | - Jeanelle Dyan Daus
- Department of Asian American Studies, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Manuel Cano
- School of Social Work, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Jasjit S. Ahluwalia
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Medicine, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Legoretta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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