Marijuana: Current Concepts†

Abstract

Marijuana (cannabis) remains a controversial drug in the twenty-first century. This paper considers current research on use of Cannabis sativa and its constituents such as the cannabinoids. Topics reviewed include prevalence of cannabis (pot) use, other drugs consumed with pot, the endocannabinoid system, use of medicinal marijuana, medical adverse effects of cannabis, and psychiatric adverse effects of cannabis use. Treatment of cannabis withdrawal and dependence is difficult and remains mainly based on psychological therapy; current research on pharmacologic management of problems related to cannabis consumption is also considered. The potential role of specific cannabinoids for medical benefit will be revealed as the twenty-first century matures. However, potential dangerous adverse effects from smoking marijuana are well known and should be clearly taught to a public that is often confused by a media-driven, though false message and promise of benign pot consumption.

Prevalence of Cannabis Lifetime Use in Iranian High School and College Students

“…Cannabis has been known to Homo sapiens in history and concern has been raised during the past centuries regarding its side effects (Anthony, 2012). Several serious side effects are enumerated for cannabis use such as suppression of rapid eye movement and diffuse slowing of background electroencephalographic activity (Greydanus, Hawver, Greydanus, & Merrick, 2013), chronic cough, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, and bronchitis (Mallaret, Dal'Bo-Rohrer, & Dematteis, 2005). Increased mortality related to its side effects is reported in countries where the prevalence of cannabis use is high (Greydanus et al, 2013).…”

“…Several serious side effects are enumerated for cannabis use such as suppression of rapid eye movement and diffuse slowing of background electroencephalographic activity (Greydanus, Hawver, Greydanus, & Merrick, 2013), chronic cough, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, and bronchitis (Mallaret, Dal'Bo-Rohrer, & Dematteis, 2005). Increased mortality related to its side effects is reported in countries where the prevalence of cannabis use is high (Greydanus et al, 2013). Also, cannabis use has been associated with an increased risk of deadly motor vehicle crashes (Asbridge et al, 2012).…”

Lung Cancer: Risk Factors, Management, And Prognosis

“…A passive smoker can be defined as someone living or working with a smoker. Studies from the US, Europe and UK [50,51,52]],have consistently shown a significant increased risk among those exposed to passive smoke [34].Those who live with someone who smokes have a 20-30% increase risk while those who work in an environment with secondhand smoke have 16-19% increase risk [53].Investigations of side stream smoke suggest it is more dangerous than direct smoke [54].Passive smoke causes about 3,400 deaths from lung cancer in the USA [50].Marijuana smoke contains many of the same carcinogens as those of tobacco smoke [55].However the effect of smoking cannabis on lung cancer is not clear [56].A 2014 review found that smoking cannabis doubled the risk of lung cancer [57].…”

Pain Management for the Young Adult Rheumatology Patient in an Era of Medicinal Marijuana Legalization

“…Although generally believed to cause relaxation, other effects that commonly occur include euphoria, anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, lapses in judgment leading to sexual behaviors, and acute withdrawal symptoms 6 …”