Study Finds Cannabis Use Disorder Common Among Medical Marijuana Users
A recent study conducted in Washington state, one of the first states to fully legalize cannabis, has revealed that cannabis use disorder (CUD) is relatively common in the state, even among medical marijuana users. This challenges the widely held perception that medical marijuana users have a lower risk of developing CUD.
To be diagnosed with CUD, a person must exhibit symptoms such as cravings for marijuana, developing tolerance, using more than intended, using it despite negative consequences, using it in high-risk situations, experiencing withdrawal, and being unable to quit. The study found that the use of both medical and recreational marijuana led to a more severe addiction compared to using medical marijuana alone.
The study, conducted among nearly 110,000 patients of a Kaiser Permanente integrated health system, unveiled some concerning statistics. It showed that 38.8% of medical cannabis users, 25.2% of non-medical cannabis users, and 56.1% of mixed medical/non-medical users consumed marijuana daily or almost daily. The findings also emphasized that frequent use of marijuana is a significant risk factor for the development of CUD.
These results align with similar studies conducted in other countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and France, which have also highlighted the potential harms of cannabis use. They underscore the urgent need for better understanding, education, and treatment of CUD.
Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications to treat cannabis use disorder. Thus, behavior-based treatments or specialty addiction centers are recommended for individuals seeking help. Failing to seek treatment for CUD can lead to severe consequences, including an increased risk of developing mental disorders, cognitive deficits, use of psychiatric services and hospitalization, and violent behavior towards oneself and others.
The findings of this study serve as a stark reminder of the potential harms associated with cannabis use, especially as it becomes increasingly legal and available for recreational and medical purposes. It is crucial to acknowledge these dangers and prioritize the education, prevention, and treatment of cannabis use disorder in order to ensure the overall well-being of individuals and communities.
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