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Cannabis use in psychotic patients
1Mental Health Care of Older People, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|September 14, 1999
Summary
Cannabis use is prevalent among psychotic patients in New Zealand, with over 80% having tried it. This study found cannabis use may influence psychosis symptoms, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Cannabis use is a growing public health concern.
- Understanding the relationship between cannabis and psychosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of cannabis use in patients with psychosis.
- To explore the association between cannabis use and psychotic symptomatology.
Main Methods:
- A 1-month study of acute psychiatric admissions in New Zealand.
- Utilized questionnaires and urine tests to assess cannabis use.
- Employed the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) for symptom evaluation.
Main Results:
- 86% of patients reported prior cannabis use; 31% tested positive via urine screen.
- Frequent cannabis users were significantly more likely to use the substance daily.
- Patients testing positive for cannabis showed reduced thought disorder, suspicion, and delusions.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis use is widespread in psychotic patients.
- Cannabis use may impact the presentation of psychotic symptoms.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the complex associations.