A chronic low dose of Δ -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) restores cognitive function (brain) in old mice Nat Med 2017 Jun;23(6):782-787.
Here we show that a low dose of Δ -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) reversed the age-related decline in cognitive performance of mice aged 12 and 18 months. This behavioral effect was accompanied by enhanced expression of synaptic marker proteins and increased hippocampal spine density. THC treatment restored hippocampal gene transcription patterns such that the expression profiles of THC-treated mice aged 12 months closely resembled those of THC-free animals aged 2 months.
Cannabis Clear Treats What’s the Science Behind It for PTSD
"Most commonly prescribed drugs don’t treat the underlying physiological causes of PTSD. For example, most people who are affected with PTSD have a clinical deficiency. They are deficient in “anandamide.” In fact, when patients with PTSD were compared to controls, patients who suffered from PTSD had over a 50% reduction in their anandamide levels Anandamide is an important neurotransmitter, that’s also considered to be the “body’s own THC.” In fact, as it’s a source of joy and happiness, it’s often called the body’s “bliss molecule.” Cannabis can help correct this clinical deficiency.
Another way cannabis helps with PTSD is through a mechanism called “aversive memory extinction.” PTSD patients frequently complain of recurrent memories of traumatic events. THC actually helps patients “forget” these memories to a point where they are far less painful.
Using cannabis to help you sleep: Heightened frequency of medical cannabis use among those with PTSD
"Consistent with prior research, this study found increased rates of coping-oriented use of cannabis and greater frequency of cannabis use among medical users with high PTSD scores compared with low PTSD scores. In addition, sleep improvement appears to be a primary motivator for coping-oriented use."
"In summary, these data add further support to the concept that cannabinoids both alone and in combination with each other, possess anticancer properties. We have reaffirmed the effects that CBD and THC have on central intracellular signaling pathways responsible for maintaining cell growth and survival, and have shown that using these two cannabinoids concomitantly resulted in mild synergism, which was also able to enhance the cytotoxic effect of irradiation. Astonishing results were observed in vivo, where the triple combination of CBD, THC, and irradiation significantly inhibited tumor progression in an orthotopic syngeneic model."
Medical cannabis and cognitive performance in middle to old
adults treated for chronic pain
"These results suggest that use of whole plant MC does not have a widespread impact on cognition in older chronic pain patients. Considering the increasing use of MC in older populations, this study could be a first step towards a better risk–benefit assessment of MC treatment in this population. Future studies are urgently needed to further clarify the implications of late‐life cannabis use for brain health."
Cannabis is associated with clinical but not endoscopic remission in ulcerative colitis: A randomized controlled trial
Short term treatment with THC rich cannabis induced clinical remission and improved quality of life in patients with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis. However, these beneficial clinical effects were not associated with significant anti-inflammatory improvement in the Mayo endoscopic score or laboratory markers for inflammation.
Youth involved in a recent study indicated they weren’t using cannabis for recreation, but rather to reduce or eliminate the use of other more harmful drugs, including alcohol, or street drugs such as fentanyl, heroin and crystal
methamphetamine (meth), Fast said.
Acute Effects of Cannabis on Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
"Patients reported a 60% reduction in compulsions, a 49% reduction in intrusions, and a 52% reduction in anxiety from before to after inhaling cannabis. Higher concentrations of CBD and higher doses predicted larger reductions in compulsions. The number of cannabis use sessions across time predicted changes in intrusions, such that later cannabis use sessions were associated with smaller reductions in intrusions. Baseline symptom severity and dose remained fairly constant over time."
Journal of Affective Disorders, Aug 1, 2018
"Medical cannabis users perceived a 50% reduction in depression and a 58% reduction in anxiety and stress following cannabis use. Two puffs were sufficient to reduce ratings of depression and anxiety, while 10+ puffs produced the greatest perceived reductions in stress. High CBD (>9.5%)/low THC (<5.5%) cannabis was associated with the largest changes in depression ratings, while high CBD (>11%)/high THC (>26.5%) cannabis produced the largest perceived changes in stress. No changes in the perceived efficacy of cannabis were detected across time. However, baseline symptoms of depression (but not anxiety or stress) appeared to be exacerbated across time/tracked sessions."
In a first-of-its-kind effort to illuminate the biochemical impact of trauma, researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a connection between the quantity of cannabinoid receptors in the human brain, known as CB1 receptors, and post-traumatic stress disorder, the chronic, disabling condition that can plague trauma victims with flashbacks, nightmares and emotional instability.
PTSD Verterans Cannabis a focus group
Patients used medical cannabis to manage their symptoms and did not experience an urge to “get high.” They used a variety of different cannabis strains and dosages and reported several therapeutic effects, including an increased quality of sleep. Furthermore, discussions about the experienced stigma surrounding cannabis generated insights with implications for the initiation of medical cannabis use.
PTSD Symptom Reports of Patients Evaluated for the New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program
"Cannabis is associated with reductions in PTSD symptoms in some patients, and prospective, placebo-controlled study is needed to determine efficacy of cannabis and its constituents in treating PTSD."
Advances in the management of multiple sclerosis spasticity: experiences from recent studies and everyday clinical practice.
Sativex at a mean daily dose of <7 sprays/day, was shown to relieve spasticity in about 70% of patients previously resistant to treatment. Clear improvements were also noted in associated symptoms such as sleep disturbances, bladder problems, loss of mobility and cramps. In large observational studies, >80% of patients reported no adverse events with the use of Sativex and interim data from safety registries in the UK and Spain indicate a low risk for serious adverse drug reactions. Follow-up studies in Sativex responders support continued benefit without the need to increase doses for at least 1 year. Sativex appears to be a promising solution for a meaningful proportion of patients with MS-related spasticity who have inadequate response to current antispasticity medications.
Cannabis is a complex plant, with major compounds such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, which have opposing effects. The discovery of its compounds has led to the further discovery of an important neurotransmitter system called the endocannabinoid system. This system is widely distributed in the brain and in the body, and is considered to be responsible for numerous significant functions. A number of epidemiological research projects have shown links between dose-related cannabis use and an increased risk of development of an enduring psychotic illness. However, it is also known that not everyone who uses cannabis is affected adversely in the same way. What makes someone more susceptible to its negative effects is not yet known, however there are some emerging vulnerability factors, ranging from certain genes to personality characteristics. In this article we first provide an overview of the biochemical basis of cannabis research by examining the different effects of the two main compounds of the plant and the endocannabinoid system, and then go on to review available information on the possible factors explaining variation of its effects upon different individuals.
Comprehensive Review of Medicinal Marijuana, Cannabinoids, and Therapeutic Implications in Medicine and Headache: What a Long Strange Trip It's Been ...
The literature suggests that the medicinal use of cannabis may have a therapeutic role for a multitude of diseases, particularly chronic pain disorders including headache. Supporting literature suggests a role for medicinal cannabis and cannabinoids in several types of headache disorders including migraine and cluster headache, although it is primarily limited to case based, anecdotal, or laboratory-based scientific research. Cannabis contains an extensive number of pharmacological and biochemical compounds, of which only a minority are understood, so many potential therapeutic uses likely remain undiscovered. Cannabinoids appear to modulate and interact at many pathways inherent to migraine, triptan mechanisms ofaction, and opiate pathways, suggesting potential synergistic or similar benefits. Modulation of the endocannabinoid system through agonism or antagonism of its receptors, targeting its metabolic pathways, or combining cannabinoids with other analgesics for synergistic effects, may provide the foundation for many new classes of medications. Despite the limited evidence and research suggesting a role for cannabis and cannabinoids in some headache disorders, randomized clinical trials are lacking and necessary for confirmation and further evaluation.
As recently proposed willingness-to-pay thresholds for the United States health marketplace range from $110,000 to $300,000 per QALY, cannabis appears cost-effective when augmenting second-line treatment for painful neuropathy. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefit of smoked cannabis and standardization of its dosing for chronic neuropathic pain.
"Fifteen milligrams THC would appear to be sedative, while 15 mg CBD appears to have alerting properties as it increased awake activity during sleep and counteracted the residual sedative activity of 15 mg THC."
Associations Between Cannabis Use and Physical Health Problems in Early Midlife JAMA Psychiatry
Cannabis use for up to 20 years is associated with periodontal disease but is not associated with other physical health problems in early midlife.
The Impact of Marijuana Use on Glucose, Insulin, and Insulin Resistance among US Adults
We found that marijuana use was associated with lower levels of fasting insulin and HOMA-IR, and smaller waist circumference.
Low-dose vaporized cannabis significantly improves neuropathic pain
The analgesia obtained from a low dose of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (1.29%) in patients, most of whom were experiencing neuropathic pain despite conventional treatments, is a clinically significant outcome. In general, the effect sizes on cognitive testing were consistent with this minimal dose. As a result, one might not anticipate a significant impact on daily.
Marijuana Use and Pneumonia Risk in a Cohort of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected Men
Marijuana smoking was not associated with a significant increase in risk of pneumonia among HIV-infected or -uninfected men.
Blurred Boundaries: The Therapeutics and Politics of Medical Marijuana
A lifetime dependence risk of 9% in marijuana users vs 32% for nicotine, 23% for heroin, 17% for cocaine, and 15% for alcohol.
Medical Cannabis Isn’t Associated With Cognitive Problems For Older Adults, Study Finds
But now a new study suggests medical cannabis use isn’t associated with cognitive problems in older adults.
Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis in Fibromyalgia
"Notwithstanding these limitations, the present observational study innovates by showing that medical cannabis may be an effective and safe treatment to fibromyalgia in a large cohort with six months follow up. Our data indicates that medical cannabis could be a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of fibromyalgia, especially for those who failed on standard pharmacological therapies. We show that medical cannabis is effective and safe when titrated slowly and gradually. Considering the low rates of addiction and serious adverse effects (especially compared to opioids), cannabis therapy should be considered to ease the symptom burden among those fibromyalgia patients who are not responding to standard care. Moreover, our results highlight the need for further research to identify the effect of cannabis on other clinical conditions that are associated with fibromyalgia: cognitive impairment, fatigue, and additional chronic pain syndromes. Future studies should aim to compare medical cannabis to the standard therapy of fibromyalgia, to establish the proper place of cannabis in fibromyalgia therapeutic arsenal."
"Delta-9-THC and CBD can have opposite effects on regional brain function, which may underlie their different symptomatic and behavioral effects, and CBD's ability to block the psychotogenic effects of Delta-9-THC."
The Effectiveness of Cannabis Flower for Immediate Relief from
Symptoms of Depression
"The findings suggest that, at least in the short term, the vast majority of patients that use cannabis experience antidepressant effects, although the magnitude of the effect and extent of side effect experiences vary with chemotypic properties of the plant."
Cannabis use Modify the Effect of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder on Severe Depression and Suicide
This study provides preliminary epidemiological evidence that cannabis use may contribute to reducing the association between post-traumatic stress disorder and severe depressive and suicidal states. There is an emerging need for high-quality experimental investigation of the efficacy of cannabis/cannabinoids for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.
THC:CBD is used in a wide dose range suggesting that the drug was applied on the basis of individual patients’ needs and preferences. Contributing to this notion, moderate to severe spasticity was associated with an elevated number of daily THC:CBD actuations and stronger recommendation rate (NPS) as compared to patients with mild spasticity. Overall, treatment satisfaction (TSQM-9) was high. The results suggest that THC:CBD may serve as a valuable addition in the spectrum of symptomatic therapy in ALS. However, prospective studies and head-to-head comparisons to other spasticity medications are of interest to further explore the effectiveness of THC:CBD in the management of spasticity, and other ALS-related symptoms.
Marijuana use was independently associated with a lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM). Further studies are needed to show a direct effect of marijuana on DM.
Neurology Clinical Practice Association between recent cannabinoid use and acute ischemic stroke
This is one of the few studies analyzing the association of recent cannabis use and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) AIS using admission urine toxicology test independent of polysubstance use. Although our study has limitations, we did not find an independent association between recent cannabis use and the incidence of AIS. Further studies using urine toxicology tests with larger sample size and including dosage of cannabis exposure should be conducted.
THC use is associated with small increases in testosterone. This increase in T appears to decline as THC use increases, but nevertheless, T is still higher with any amount of regular use when compared to T in non-users. Prospective work is needed to validate the observed increase and to better elucidate the mechanism of impact THC use has on T levels.
Association between marijuana use and electrocardiographic abnormalities by middle age The Coronary
"In a middle-aged US population, lifetime cumulative and occasional current marijuana use were not associated with increases in electrocardiogram abnormalities. This adds to the growing body of evidence that occasional marijuana use and cardiovascular disease events and markers of subclinical atherosclerosis are not associated."
Medical Cannabis Isn’t Associated With Cognitive Problems For Older
Adults, Study Finds
But now a new study suggests medical cannabis use isn’t associated with cognitive problems in older adults.
Medical cannabis and cognitive performance in middle to old adults treated for chronic pain
These results suggest that use of whole plant MC does not have a widespread impact on cognition in older chronic pain patients. Considering the increasing use of MC in older populations, this study could be a first step towards a better risk-benefit assessment of MC treatment in this population.
Effect of cannabis smoking on lung function and respiratory symptoms: a structured literature review
However, recent large studies have shown that, instead of reducing forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity (FVC),marijuana smoking is associated with increased FVC. The cause of this is unclear, but acute bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis may be relevant.
Fifteen milligrams THC would appear to be sedative, while 15 mg CBD appears to have alerting properties as it increased awake activity during sleep and counteracted the residual sedative activity of 15 mg THC.
Evidence from over-the-counter sleep aid sales in Colorado
These findings support survey evidence that many individuals use cannabis to treat insomnia, although sleep disturbances are not a specific qualifying condition under any U.S. state-level medical cannabis law. Investigations designed to measure the relative effectiveness and side effect profiles of conventional OTC sleep aids and cannabis-based products are urgently needed to improve treatment of sleep disturbances while minimizing potentially serious
negative side effects.
Molecular Psychiatry showed that treatment using particular compounds found in marijuana may benefit those with PTSD.
This study provides preliminary epidemiological evidence that cannabis use may contribute to reducing the association between post-traumatic stress disorder and severe depressive and suicidal states. There is an emerging need for high-quality experimental investigation of the efficacy of cannabis/cannabinoids for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Associations Between Cannabis Use and Physical Health Problems in Early Midlife
Cannabis use for up to 20 years is associated with periodontal disease but is not associated with other physical health problems in early midlife.
Blurred Boundaries: The Therapeutics and Politics of Medical Marijuana
With a lifetime dependence risk of 9% in marijuana users vs 32% for nicotine, 23% for heroin, 17% for cocaine, and 15% for alcohol.
Marijuana Use and Pneumonia Risk in a Cohort of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected Men
Marijuana smoking was not associated with a significant increase in risk of pneumonia among HIV-infected or -uninfected men.
Research on how MCLs influence cannabis use has advanced our understanding of the importance of heterogeneity in policies, populations, and market dynamics, but studies of how MCLs relate to other substance use often ignore these factors. Understanding effects of cannabis laws requires greater attention to differences in short- versus long-term effects of the laws, nuances of policies and patterns of consumption, and careful consideration of appropriate control groups.
The literature suggests that the medicinal use of cannabis may have a therapeutic role for a multitude of diseases, particularly chronic pain disorders including headache. Supporting literature suggests a role for medicinal cannabis and cannabinoids in several types of headache disorders including migraine and cluster headache, although it is primarily limited to case based, anecdotal, or laboratory-based scientific research. Cannabis contains an extensive number of pharmacological and biochemical compounds, of which only a minority are understood, so many potential therapeutic uses likely remain undiscovered. Cannabinoids appear to modulate and interact at many pathways inherent to migraine, triptan mechanisms ofaction, and opiate pathways, suggesting potential synergistic or similar benefits. Modulation of the endocannabinoid system through agonism or antagonism of its receptors, targeting its metabolic pathways, or combining cannabinoids with other analgesics for synergistic effects, may provide the foundation for many new classes of medications. Despite the limited evidence and research suggesting a role for cannabis and cannabinoids in some headache disorders, randomized clinical trials are lacking and necessary for confirmation and further evaluation."
A Cost-Effectiveness Model for Adjunctive Smoked Cannabis in the Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic Pain
"As recently proposed willingness-to-pay thresholds for the United States health marketplace range from $110,000 to $300,000 per QALY, cannabis appears cost-effective when augmenting second-line treatment for painful neuropathy. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefit of smoked cannabis and standardization of its dosing for chronic neuropathic pain."
A Review on Studies of Marijuana for Alzheimer’s Disease –Focusing on CBD, THC
"These results implied that the CBD components of cannabis might be useful to treat and prevent AD because CBD components could suppress the main causal factors of AD. Moreover, it was suggested that using CBD and THC together could be more useful than using CBD or THC alone."
Cannabis, a complex plant: different compounds and different effects on individuals
"Cannabis is a complex plant, with major compounds such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, which have opposing effects. The discovery of its compounds has led to the further discovery of an important neurotransmitter system called the endocannabinoid system. This system is widely distributed in the brain and in the body, and is considered to be
responsible for numerous significant functions." Cannabis affects people differently and therefore it is important to understand what makes someone more at risk and how they differ compared with those who do not develop psychotic illness."
Fully adjusted regression models indicated that current cannabis users’ accelerometer-measured sedentary behavior did not significantly differ from non-current users. Frequent cannabis users engaged in more physical activity than non-current users. Light cannabis users had greater odds of self-reporting physical activity compared to non-current users.
Findings suggest cannabis exposure is linked to a lower odds of NCI in the context of HIV. A possible mechanism of this result is the anti-inflammatory effect of cannabis, which may be particularly important for PLHIV. Further investigations are needed to refine the effects of dose, timing, and cannabis compound on this relationship, which could inform guidelines for cannabis use among populations vulnerable to cognitive decline.
Decreased prevalence of diabetes in marijuana users: cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III
Marijuana use was independently associated with a lower prevalence of DM. Further studies are needed to show a direct effect of marijuana on DM.
Cannabis Treats PTSD: What’s theScience Behind It?
When comparing cannabis to other substances, cannabis clearly has a better safety profile and is less addictive than alcohol and other drugs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that given the fact individuals who have PTSD are at higher risk for developing substance dependency problems, they should closely monitor their cannabis use and supplement treatment with complementary natural treatments including psychotherapy, lifestyle changes (healthy diet and exercise), and participating in a support group.
"We found that marijuana use was associated with lower levels of fasting insulin andHOMA-IR, and smaller waist circumference."
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Medical Cannabis: Review and Clinical Experience Pediatric Neurology
Volume 35, October 2020
At present, preclinical and clinical data suggest a potential for therapeutic benefit among some persons with ASD and that it is overall well tolerated. Further research is required to better identify patients who may benefit from treatment without adverse effects.
Cannabis reduces tumor growth in study Medical News Today 7/13/2015
"The researchers found that administering THC to mice with human tumors initiated autophagyand caused the growth of the tumors to decrease. Two human patients with highly aggressive brain tumors who received intracranial administration of THC also showed similar signs of autophagy, upon analysis."
"In conclusion, cannabinoids show promising anti-neoplastic functions in GBM by targeting multiple cancer hallmarks such as resistance to programmed cell death, neoangiogenesis, tissue invasion or stem cell-induced replicative immortality. The effects of cannabinoids can be potentially enhanced by combination of different cannabinoids with each other or with chemotherapeutic agents. This requires, however, a detailed understanding of cannabinoid-induced molecular mechanisms and pharmacological effects. Ultimately, these findings might foster the development of improved therapeutic strategies against GBM and, perhaps, other diseases of the nervous system as well."
Intriguingly, the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids include the potential to counteract each of these conditions. Thus appetite enhancement (Beal et al. 1997) and a critical role in food ingestion (Fride et al.2001), analgesic, antiemetic, antiinflammatory, inhibition of intestinal motility and bronchodilating effects have been demonstrated (Calignanoet al. 2001; Colombo et al. 1998; Fride 1995; Mechoulam et al. 1998b;Hanus et al. 1999; Tyler et al. 2000).
A Cost-Effectiveness Model for Adjunctive Smoke Cannabis in the Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic
Pain. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2019 Mar 13;4(1):62-72
As recently proposed willingness-to-pay thresholds for the United States health marketplace range from $110,000 to $300,000 per QALY, cannabis appears cost-effective when augmenting second-line treatment for painful neuropathy. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefit of smoked cannabis and standardization of its dosing for chronic neuropathic pain.
"Fibromyalgia in a large cohort with six months follow up indicates that medical cannabis could be a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of fibromyalgia, especially for those who failed on standard pharmacological therapies. We show that medical cannabis is effective and safe when titrated slowly and gradually. Considering the low rates of addiction and serious adverse effects (especially compared to opioids), cannabis therapy should be considered to ease the symptom burden among those fibromyalgia patients who are not responding to standard care. Moreover, our results highlight the need for further research to identify the effect of cannabis on other clinical conditions that are associated with fibromyalgia: cognitive impairment, fatigue, and additional chronic pain syndromes. Future studies should aim to compare medical cannabis to the standard therapy of fibromyalgia, to establish the proper place of cannabis in fibromyalgia therapeutic arsenal."
Delta-9-THC and CBD had opposite effects on activation relative to placebo in the striatum during verbal recall, in the hippocampus during the response inhibition task, in the amygdala when subjects viewed fearful faces, in the superior temporal cortex when subjects listened to speech, and in the occipital cortex during visual processing. In the second experiment, pretreatment with CBD prevented the acute induction of psychotic symptoms by Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Delta-9-THC and CBD can have opposite effects on regional brain function, which may underlie their different symptomatic and behavioral effects, and CBD's ability to block the psychotogenic effects of Delta-9-THC.
Marijuana use was independently associated with a lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Further studies are needed to show a direct effect of marijuana on diabetes mellitus.
Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Chronic Pain Curr Rheumatology Rep (2017)
In summary, we conclude that the scientific evidence presented demonstrates that inhaled cannabis is clinically useful for the treatment of chronic (neuropathic) pain, and seems to be safe and tolerable for long-term use under medical supervision. The effects seem to be modest and variable.
Low-dose vaporized cannabis significantly improves neuropathic pain - Journal of Pain 2/14/2013
These findings support survey evidence that many individuals use cannabis to treat insomnia, although sleep disturbances are not a specific qualifying condition under any U.S. state-level medical cannabis law. Investigations designed to measure the relative effectiveness and side effect profiles of conventional OTC sleep aids and cannabis-based products are urgently needed to improve treatment of sleep disturbances while minimizing potentially
serious negative side effects.
The effects of Δ -tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol alone and in
combination on damage, inflammation and in vitro motility disturbances in rat colitis
Conclusions and implications: THC and CBD not only reduced inflammation but also lowered the occurrence of functional disturbances. Moreover the combination of CBD and THC could be beneficial therapeutically,via additive or potentiating effects.
In this model of colitis, THC and CBD not only reduced inflammation but also lowered the occurrence of functional disturbances. Moreover the combination of CBD and THC could be beneficial therapeutically, via additive or potentiating effects.
THC use is associated with small increases in testosterone. This increase in T appears to decline as THC use increases, but nevertheless, T is still higher with any amount of regular use when compared to T in non-users. Prospective work is needed to validate the observed increase and to better elucidate the mechanism of impact THC use has on T levels.
Association Between Recent Cannabinoid Use and Acute Ischemic Stroke Ischemic Stroke
This is one of the few studies analyzing the association of recent cannabis use and acute ischemic stroke using admission urine toxicology test independent of polysubstance use. Even though our study has limitations, we did not find an independent association between recent cannabis use and the incidence of acute ischemic stroke. Further studies utilizing urine toxicology tests with larger sample size and including dosage of cannabis exposure should be done.
Epidemiological characteristics, safety andefficacy of medical cannabis in the elderly
Our study finds that the therapeutic use of cannabis is safe and efficacious in the elderly population. Cannabis use may decrease the use of other prescription medicines, including opioids. Gathering more evidence-based data, including data from double-blind randomized-controlled trials, in this special population is imperative.
The treatment of THC:CBD was effective.
The Effectiveness of Cannabis Flower for Immediate Relief from Symptoms of Depression
One of the most clinically relevant findings from this study was the widely experienced relief from depression within 2 hours or less. Because traditional antidepressants have times-to-effect in weeks, short-term Cannabis use might be a solution to these delays in treatment or could be used to treat acute episodes associated with suicidal behavior and other forms of violence. Such short-term or acute episode treatment approaches would fill an important gap in existing clinical methods while avoiding the addiction and dependence risks of long-term Cannabis use. Given the significant costs to our society from depression, the research herein offers hope for new avenues of treatment.
Association between marijuana use and electrocardiographic abnormalities by middle age The Coronary
In a middle-aged US population, lifetime cumulative and occasional current marijuana use were not associated with increases in electrocardiogram abnormalities. This adds to the growing body of evidence that occasional marijuana use and cardiovascular disease events and markers of subclinical atherosclerosis are not associated.
"If all states had had a medical marijuana law in 2014, we estimated that total savings for fee-for-service Medicaid could have been $1.01 billion.
After states legalized medical marijuana, traffic deaths fell
"Deaths dropped 11 percent on average in states that legalized medical marijuana, researchers discovered after analyzing 1.2 million traffic fatalities nationwide from 1985 through 2014."
Epidemiological characteristics, safety and efficacy of medical cannabis in the elderly
"We aimed to assess the characteristics of elderly people using medical cannabis and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the treatment."
Associations between medical cannabis and other drug use among unstably housed women
In addition to opioids, stimulants were also a part of this study.
"Throughout the millennia, the cannabis plant has been utilized as a recognized therapy for pain relief and symptom management.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Medical Cannabis: Review and Clinical Experience
"Currently, no effective treatment exists for the core symptoms of ASD."
"Although spasticity of varying severity affects up to 80% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) during the course of their disease, the symptom is often overlooked and undertreated."
Access to medical marijuana tied to reduced workers' comp claims
"In states with laws allowing medical marijuana, researchers tied the accessibility of cannabis to a nearly 7% decline in workers’ comp claims."
"Narrative review of quasi-experimental studies for how medical cannabis laws (MCLs) and recreational cannabis laws (RCLs) affect cannabis use and use disorders, as well as the use of or harms from alcohol, opioids, and tobacco."
The Impact of Marijuana Use on Glucose, Insulin, and Insulin Resistance among US Adults
"To date, no study has investigated the relationship between marijuana use and fasting insulin, glucose, and insulin resistance."
Decreased prevalence of diabetes in marijuana users: cross-sectional data from the NHANES III
"We hypothesised that the prevalence of (diabetes mellitus) would be reduced in marijuana users due to the presence of one or more cannabinoids because of their immunomodulatory and anti inflammatory properties."
Detailed North Carolina Statewide & County-Level Criminal Charging Data
"In this report, we present more detailed information about the nature of the felony and misdemeanor charges brought in North Carolina in 2019."
Low-dose vaporized cannabis significantly improves neuropathic pain
"double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study evaluating the analgesic efficacy of vaporized cannabis in subjects,"
"A recent meta-analysis affirmed the benefit of medicinal cannabis for chronic neuropathic pain, a disabling and difficult-to-treat condition."
"We then assessed whether pretreatment with CBD can prevent the acute psychotic symptoms induced by Delta-9-THC."
"Despite potential for dependence and adverse neurological effects, long-term benzodiazepine (BZD) use is common among people living with HIV (PLWH)."
"However, in the context of aging and HIV, cannabis use may exert beneficial effects due to its anti-inflammatory properties."
List of cannabinoids available
"While cannabinoids are commonly associated with recreational use, cannabinoids exist as a group of chemical components that produce a wide range of effects."
"Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):cannabidiol (CBD) oromucosal spray (THC:CBD), approved for the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis, serves as a complementary off-label treatment option in ALS-related spasticity. However, few structured data are available on THC:CBD in the treatment of spasticity in ALS."
"The electroencephalogram was recorded during the sleep period (11 pm to 7 am). Performance, sleep latency, and subjective assessments of sleepiness and mood were measured from 8d30 am (10 hours after drug administration)."
A chronic low dose of Δ -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) restores cognitive function in old mice
"There is substantial evidence suggesting that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is part of the (aging process) system because it modulates the physiological processes underlying aging."
Medical Cannabis Isn’t Associated With Cognitive Problems For Older Adults, Study Finds
"And this year Covid-19 stresses have only increased the demand for cannabis, causing big increases in cannabis use. Older adults have been no exception to this trend,"
Association between recent cannabinoid use and acute ischemic stroke
"Studies that have analyzed the association between cannabis use and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) have provided conflicting results." This study attempts to clear that up.
Medical cannabis and cognitive performance in middle to old adults treated for chronic pain
"A cross-sectional study was conducted among chronic pain patients aged 50+ years who had MC licenses (n = 63) and a comparison group who did not have MC licenses (n = 62)."
"We used data from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey-Mental Health, a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of non-institutionalized Canadians aged ⩾15" years.
Emerson Poll shows majority of North Carolinians support legalization of medical marijuana
"Nearly three-quarters (72.5 percent) of those polled said they approve of the use of medical marijuana in North Carolina."
Inside The $35 Billion Addiction Treatment Industry
Some eye-opening facts on the addiction treatment industry
Cannabis Treats PTSD: What’s the Science Behind It?
General description of PTSD, its symptoms, and how cannabis can help with the symptoms.
The effect of tetrahydrocannabinol on testosterone among men in the United States
The study was to determine if cannabis increases, decreases, or has no affect to T-levels in men 18 years or older.
Associations Between Cannabis Use and Physical Health Problems in Early Midlife
The study was "To test associations between cannabis use over 20 years and a variety of physical health indexes at early midlife." "We assessed frequency of cannabis use and cannabis dependence at
ages 18, 21, 26, 32, and 38 years."
The focus being on "From June 2019 to January 2020, over 2500 cases of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette)– or vaping–associated lung injury (EVALI) were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."
Brain-imaging study links cannabinoid receptors to post- traumatic stress disorder
"researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a connection between the quantity of ... CB1 receptors, and (PTSD),"
The Therapeutics and Politics of Medical Marijuana
"American physicians prescribed it for a plethora of indications, until the federal government started imposing restrictions on its use,"
Cannabis, a complex plant: different compounds and different effects on individuals
How cannabinoids would react in our bodies and how it is not the same for everyone
"To review the history of medicinal cannabis use ... with a focus on migraine and other headache disorders, and outline general clinical practice guidelines."
Marijuana Use and Pneumonia Risk in a Cohort of HIV-infected and HIV- uninfected Men
This study is to determine if there is any "association between smoking marijuana and pneumonia."
"it remains to be established if (the CBD and THC) cannabinoids interact in vivo in inflammatory disorders."
Experiences with medical cannabis in the treatment of veterans with PTSD
To complete a study with military veterans and if cannabis alleviate their PTSD symptoms
PTSD Symptom Reports of Patients Evaluated for the New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program
To determine if medical cannabis use is beneficial for those in New Mexico with PTSD
Association between marijuana use and electrocardiographic abnormalities by middle age
"To evaluate the prevalence of electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities in marijuana users as an indirect measure of subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD)."
The Effectiveness of Cannabis Flower for Immediate Relief from Symptoms of Depression
"the vast majority of patients that use cannabis experience antidepressant effects"
Decreased prevalence of diabetes in marijuana users
This study was completed to determine the association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and marijuana use.
Matched pilot study examining cannabis-based dronabinol for acute pain following traumatic injury
Study to determine whether this licensed form of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol reduces opioid consumption
Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis in Fibromyalgia
"The aim of the study was to investigate the characteristics, safety, and effectiveness of medical cannabis therapy for fibromyalgia."
From the June 22, 2019 NC NORML public meeting, Jacksonville, NC
Dr. Ovi Inamullah - Cannabis Based Medicine in Neurology
Presentation to Physicians at Duke Medical Center about Medical Cannabis
The Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis and Cannabinoids
There is now clear evidence that cannabinoids are useful for the treatment of various medical conditions.
Cannabinoids in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder A randomised-controlled trial
The study demonstrated improvements in pain, QOL, and a variety of symptoms, but only found statistically significant improvements in ability to cope with pain and experiences with sleep.
In this study, differences in amygdala volume in cannabis users were attributable to common predispositional factors, genetic or environmental in origin, with little support for causal influences.
Smoked cannabis was well tolerated and effectively relieved chronic neuropathic pain from HIV-associated sensory neuropathy. The findings are comparable to oral drugs used for chronic neuropathic pain.
Patients who used antidepressants and saw a psychiatrist regularly, continued to have recurring nightmares. Following cannabis treatment, 72% stopped having nightmares or had their severity drastically reduced.
In the absence of an appropriately funded and supported cannabis research agenda, patients may be unaware of viable treatment options, providers may be unable to prescribe effective treatments, policy makers may be hindered from developing evidence- based policies, and health care organizations and insurance providers lack a basis on which to revise their care and coverage policies. In short, such barriers represent a public health problem.
Use of marijuana for chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and spasticity due to multiple sclerosis is supported by high-quality evidence.
Cannabis use for up to 20 years is associated with periodontal disease, but is not associated with other physical health problems in early midlife.
Guidance for the Use of Medicinal Cannabis in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis in Australia, 2017
This document includes dosing suggestions for cannabinoids including delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), their combinations and routes of administration.