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Progress in Neuro-psychopharmacology &... Jun 2024Abuse-related drug usage is a public health issue. Drosophila melanogaster has been used as an animal model to study the biological effects of these psychoactive... (Review)
Review
Abuse-related drug usage is a public health issue. Drosophila melanogaster has been used as an animal model to study the biological effects of these psychoactive substances in preclinical studies. Our objective in this review is to evaluate the adverse effects produced by cocaine, nicotine, and marijuana during the development of D. melanogaster. We searched experimental studies in which D. melanogaster was exposed to these three psychoactive drugs in seven online databases up to January 2023. Two reviewers independently extracted the data. Fifty-one studies met eligibility criteria and were included in the data extraction: nicotine (n = 26), cocaine (n = 20), and marijuana (n = 5). Fifteen studies were eligible for meta-analysis. Low doses (∼0.6 mM) of nicotine increased locomotor activity in fruit flies, while high doses (≥3 mM) led to a decrease. Similarly, exposure to cocaine increased locomotor activity, resulting in decreased climbing response in D. melanogaster. Studies with exposure to marijuana did not present a profile for our meta-analysis. However, this drug has been less associated with locomotor changes, but alterations in body weight and fat content and changes in cardiac function. Our analyses have shown that fruit flies exposed to drugs of abuse during different developmental stages, such as larvae and adults, exhibit molecular, morphological, behavioral, and survival changes that are dependent on the dosage. These phenotypes resemble the adverse effects of psychoactive substances in clinical medicine.
PubMed: 38844126
DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111049 -
Drug and Alcohol Dependence Jul 2024Cannabis currently stands as the most prevalent illicit substance used by adolescents in France. Its use is associated with an elevated risk of developing psychiatric... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Cannabis currently stands as the most prevalent illicit substance used by adolescents in France. Its use is associated with an elevated risk of developing psychiatric disorder, affecting neuro-cognitive development, or leading to psycho-social challenges in the long run. Cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) have emerged as a preferred approach for treating cannabis use disorders (CUD) in adults.
METHODS
This review is grounded in a systematic search of the PubMed scientific database for randomized controlled trials focusing on CBT treatment for adolescents (12-18 years old) with CUD.
RESULTS
Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Currently, several variants of CBT-based treatments are available for adolescents, differing in duration based on the intended objectives (ranging from 3 to 24 weeks). These CBT therapies are often complemented by motivational interviewing or family therapy. Only two studies draw comparisons between CBT and alternative therapeutic approaches.
DISCUSSION
The current scientific literature in this field is limited, and the study designs display heterogeneity. However, abbreviated treatment courses appear to have value, especially within the adolescent population. These courses offer treatment advantages and may enhance treatment adherence among these young patients, who may face challenges in maintaining consistent follow-up. Additionally, involving parents in psychotherapeutic care seems to have a positive impact.
CONCLUSION
CBT in adolescents with CUD appears to be a promising approach to assist with maintaining abstinence and managing emotions. However, given the diverse study designs found in the literature, conducting research with standardized treatments on larger patient cohorts would be valuable.
Topics: Humans; Adolescent; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Marijuana Abuse; Child; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 38759505
DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111321 -
Frontiers in Public Health 2024Problematic cannabis use is highly prevalent among people with mood disorders. This underscores the need to understand the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids in this...
BACKGROUND
Problematic cannabis use is highly prevalent among people with mood disorders. This underscores the need to understand the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids in this population, especially considering legalization of recreational cannabis use.
OBJECTIVES
We aimed to (1) systematically evaluate cross-sectional and longitudinal studies investigating the interplay between cannabis use, cannabis use disorder (CUD), and the occurrence of mood disorders and symptoms, with a focus on major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) and; (2) examine the effects of cannabis on the prognosis and treatment outcomes of MDD and BD.
METHODS
Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted an extensive search for English-language studies investigating the potential impact of cannabis on the development and prognosis of mood disorders published from inception through November 2023, using EMBASE, PsycINFO, PubMed, and MEDLINE databases.
RESULTS
Our literature search identified 3,262 studies, with 78 meeting inclusion criteria. We found that cannabis use is associated with increased depressive and manic symptoms in the general population in addition to an elevated likelihood of developing MDD and BD. Furthermore, we observed that cannabis use is linked to an unfavorable prognosis in both MDD or BD.
DISCUSSION
Our findings suggest that cannabis use may negatively influence the development, course, and prognosis of MDD and BD. Future well-designed studies, considering type, amount, and frequency of cannabis use while addressing confounding factors, are imperative for a comprehensive understanding of this relationship.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023481634.
Topics: Humans; Depressive Disorder, Major; Mood Disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Marijuana Abuse; Cross-Sectional Studies; Marijuana Use; Longitudinal Studies; Prognosis
PubMed: 38655516
DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1346207 -
Drug and Alcohol Dependence Apr 2024The prevalence of cannabis use disorders (CUDs) in people who use cannabis recreationally has been estimated at 22%, yet there is a dearth of literature exploring CUDs... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
The prevalence of cannabis use disorders (CUDs) in people who use cannabis recreationally has been estimated at 22%, yet there is a dearth of literature exploring CUDs among people who use medicinal cannabis. We aimed to systematically review the prevalence of CUDs in people who use medicinal cannabis.
METHODS
In our systematic review and meta-analysis, we followed PRISMA guidelines and searched three databases (PsychInfo, Embase and PubMed) to identify studies examining the prevalence of CUDs in people who use medicinal cannabis. Meta-analyses were calculated on the prevalence of CUDs. Prevalence estimates were pooled across different prevalence periods using the DSM-IV and DSM-5.
RESULTS
We conducted a systematic review of 14 eligible publications, assessing the prevalence of CUDs, providing data for 3681 participants from five different countries. The systematic review demonstrated that demographic factors, mental health disorders and the management of chronic pain with medicinal cannabis were associated with an elevated risk of CUDs. Meta-analyses were conducted on the prevalence of CUDs. For individuals using medicinal cannabis in the past 6-12 months, the prevalence of CUDs was 29% (95% CI: 21-38%) as per DSM-5 criteria. Similar prevalence was observed using DSM-IV (24%, CI: 14-38%) for the same period. When including all prevalence periods and using the DSM-5, the prevalence of CUDs in people who use medicinal cannabis was estimated at 25% (CI: 18-33%).
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of CUDs in people who use medicinal cannabis is substantial and comparable to people who use cannabis for recreational reasons, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to monitor the prevalence of CUDs in people who use medicinal cannabis.
Topics: Humans; Cannabis; Marijuana Abuse; Medical Marijuana; Prevalence; Substance-Related Disorders
PubMed: 38493566
DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111263 -
Journal of Substance Use and Addiction... Jun 2024Prior systematic and meta-analytic reviews observed mixed evidence for the efficacy of cannabis brief interventions (BIs). Inconsistent support for cannabis BIs may be...
Identifying brief intervention factors to improve cannabis related outcomes in adolescents and young adults: A systematic review of sample characteristics and intervention components.
INTRODUCTION
Prior systematic and meta-analytic reviews observed mixed evidence for the efficacy of cannabis brief interventions (BIs). Inconsistent support for cannabis BIs may be the result of intersecting methodological factors, including intervention structure and content, participant eligibility criteria, and outcome assessment measures. The current systematic review of cannabis BI studies narratively synthesizes these data to guide intervention development decision-making in future cannabis BI studies (PROSPERO CRD42022285990).
METHODS
We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases in January 2022 and again in June 2023 to capture newly published studies. Studies were included if they were a randomized trial, enrolled adolescents (13-17) and/or young adults (18-30), specified cannabis use and/or problems inclusion criteria, and evaluated a cannabis BI (defined as ≤4 sessions). We extracted and synthesized data on intervention characteristics (e.g., components, length/duration, modality), cannabis inclusion criteria and recruitment setting, baseline cannabis use descriptives and treatment-seeking status, and outcome assessment measures to discern if/how they may intersect to determine intervention efficacy. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2 assessed study quality.
RESULTS
Our search resulted in a final sample of 25 study records including 4094 participants. Recruitment setting seemed to provide an influential backdrop for how well inclusion criteria determined baseline cannabis use level, as well as for the type/length of the BI evaluated. Motivational interviewing (MI) and personalized feedback (PF) were the most frequently used BI components overall; however, some differences were observed in the proportion of BIs with reported intervention effects using MI vs. PF. Frequency of use days was the most commonly used outcome measure, although this may not be the most sensitive measure for assessing cannabis BI efficacy.
CONCLUSIONS
Our systematic review indicates that cannabis BI studies require greater precision in their design, giving special attention to matching the content and structure of the BI to the needs of the target population and selecting outcomes commensurate to the goals of the BI and the target population to more accurately reflect the efficacy of the BI. However, consistent with prior reviews, all included studies demonstrated at least some concerns for risk of bias, and most were at high risk.
Topics: Humans; Adolescent; Young Adult; Motivational Interviewing; Marijuana Abuse; Adult
PubMed: 38490335
DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209335 -
Journal of Psychiatric Research Apr 2024Studies have shown that individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) pose an increased risk for developing substance use disorders. Increased... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Studies have shown that individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) pose an increased risk for developing substance use disorders. Increased cannabis product accessibility and recent legislative changes have led to increased cannabis consumption, thereby increasing the risk of cannabis use disorder (CUD). The present meta-analysis explored the lifetime and current prevalence of CUD in ADHD. A systematic review was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science. A total of 14 articles were included and used to estimate the aggregate lifetime and current prevalence of CUD in ADHD alongside risk ratios comparing increased risk of CUD in ADHD versus control samples. Mixed and random-effects models indicated that lifetime and current prevalence rates of CUD in ADHD populations were 26.9% and 19.2%, respectively (although prediction intervals ranged from 12.4% to 48.8% and 5.5%-39.1%, respectively). Analysis of the risk ratios indicated that those with ADHD were at 2.85- and 2.91-times greater risk of a lifetime or current diagnosis of CUD, respectively, than those in the general population. Our findings support the need for additional research on the prevalence of CUD in those with ADHD, as well as the inclusion of CUD screening in the treatment of ADHD.
Topics: Humans; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; Prevalence; Comorbidity; Substance-Related Disorders; Cannabis; Hallucinogens; Marijuana Abuse
PubMed: 38452637
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.02.050 -
Frontiers in Psychiatry 2024Catatonia presents itself as a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome, giving rise to various motor, speech, and behavioral challenges. It is noteworthy that approximately...
BACKGROUND
Catatonia presents itself as a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome, giving rise to various motor, speech, and behavioral challenges. It is noteworthy that approximately 10% of psychiatric hospital admissions can be attributed to this condition. It is imperative to note that cannabis-induced catatonia, while infrequent, has been linked to the use of marijuana. This connection has the potential to disrupt neurotransmitter systems, necessitating further research for a comprehensive understanding and effective treatment, particularly given the evolving trends in cannabis use. In this context, we shall delve into a unique case of recurrent cannabis-induced catatonia.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 23-year-old gentleman, who has previously struggled with substance use disorder, experienced the emergence of mutism, social isolation, and a fixed gaze subsequent to his use of cannabis. Remarkably, despite the absence of hallucinations, he exhibited recurrent episodes of catatonia. These episodes were effectively addressed through a combination of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and lorazepam administration. Notably, when the lorazepam dosage was gradually reduced to below 2 mg per day, the catatonic symptoms resurfaced; however, they promptly abated upon reinstating the medication. The diagnosis of cannabis-induced catatonia was established, and its management primarily involved a therapeutic approach encompassing ECT and lorazepam. It is pertinent to underscore that this catatonic condition can be directly linked to the individual's cannabis usage.
CONCLUSION
The connection between cannabis and catatonia is intricate and not entirely comprehended. Although cannabis possesses therapeutic advantages, it can paradoxically trigger catatonia in certain individuals. Multiple factors, such as genetics, cannabinoids, and neurotransmitter systems, contribute to this intricacy, underscoring the necessity for additional research.
PubMed: 38313688
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1332310 -
Unravelling the landscape of craving pharmacological treatments: a PRISMA-guided review of evidence.International Review of Psychiatry... 2023Currently, few treatments are available for craving in general, and none of them have received approval for craving. The objective of this review is to evaluate...
Currently, few treatments are available for craving in general, and none of them have received approval for craving. The objective of this review is to evaluate existing studies analysing treatments for craving and explore novel treatment possibilities for these patients. The study followed PRISMA guidelines and conducted an extensive database search. Inclusion criteria included human randomised controlled trials examining drug effects on craving symptoms. Exclusion criteria involved studies unrelated to craving, non-pharmacological treatments, duplicates, and non-English/Spanish/Portuguese articles. Our included 22 studies that investigated a wide range of compounds used for cravings related to other drugs, as well as interventions based on healthcare professionals' empirical knowledge. The current pharmacological treatments largely involve off-label drug use and the utilisation of cannabinoid-based medications, such as combinations of THC and lofexidine, oxytocin, progesterone, and N-acetylcysteine. These emerging treatments show promise and have the potential to revolutionise current clinical practices, but further investigation is needed to establish their efficacy. In this context, it is essential to consider non-pharmacological interventions, such as psychotherapy and behavioural treatments. These approaches play a crucial role in complementing pharmacological interventions and addressing the complex nature of the disorder.
Topics: Humans; Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists; Cannabis; Craving; Dronabinol; Hallucinogens; Marijuana Abuse; Off-Label Use
PubMed: 38299652
DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2023.2231540 -
The American Journal of Drug and... Mar 2024The use of cannabis is highly prevalent during adolescence compared to the general adult population. In addition to the high comorbidity between cannabis use and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
The use of cannabis is highly prevalent during adolescence compared to the general adult population. In addition to the high comorbidity between cannabis use and anxiety disorders, early evidence suggests that cannabis may precede the development of anxiety. Moreover, adolescence represents a major developmental period for both neurobiological and psychological processes, placing these individuals at a heightened vulnerability to the influence of cannabis. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prospective associations between adolescent cannabis use and subsequent anxiety outcomes (i.e. anxiety disorders and/or symptoms). Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted encompassing data from articles published between database inception and September 2022. Six longitudinal studies were identified for quantitative analysis, while twelve non-overlapping longitudinal studies were identified for qualitative review (total = 18; 33380 subjects). Meta-analytical findings supported an association between adolescent cannabis use and the development of a subsequent anxiety disorder (Odds Ratio = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.37-3.36, < .01). These findings were consistent with our qualitative synthesis where nine of the twelve longitudinal studies observed a significant relationship between adolescent cannabis use and exacerbation of anxiety symptoms later in life, irrespective of an anxiety disorder diagnosis. In summary, the current evidence suggests a prospective association between adolescent cannabis use and later anxiety symptoms and disorders. These findings underscore the importance of refining research methodologies, considering sex-based differences and controlling for confounding factors, as well as implementing educational initiatives and developing clinical interventions to address the mental health risks associated with cannabis use among adolescents.
Topics: Humans; Adolescent; Anxiety Disorders; Marijuana Use; Anxiety; Longitudinal Studies
PubMed: 38285048
DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2023.2299922 -
The Journal of Adolescent Health :... Mar 2024To systematically review evidence evaluating cannabis-related knowledge and perception of risk in children and adolescents. We systematically searched Medline, PsycINFO,... (Review)
Review
To systematically review evidence evaluating cannabis-related knowledge and perception of risk in children and adolescents. We systematically searched Medline, PsycINFO, and EMBASE using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. 133 studies from around the world (including ages 10-18 yrs) met inclusion criteria, with 70% meeting grade 2C quality. Increased knowledge and perception of risk of cannabis frequently correlated with lower levels of current use and intent to use. Studies examining correlations over time generally demonstrated increased adolescent cannabis use and decreased perception of risk. Included prevention-based interventions often enhanced knowledge and/or perception of risk in adolescents exposed to the intervention. Studies exploring outcomes relating to legislative changes for recreational marijuana use demonstrated considerable heterogeneity regarding knowledge and perception of risk whereas studies that focused on medicinal marijuana legislative changes overwhelmingly demonstrated a decrease in perception of risk post legalization. Increased knowledge and perception of risk of cannabis in adolescents often correlate with lower levels of current use and intention to use in the future. Further study and implementation of public health and clinically-oriented strategies that seek to increase knowledge among youth about the potential health harms of cannabis use should continue and be prioritized.
Topics: Child; Adolescent; Humans; Cannabis; Marijuana Abuse; Medical Marijuana; Intention; Perception
PubMed: 37966406
DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.09.014