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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
05:13
Preclinical Model of Prenatal Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure to Assess Its Impact on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes
Published on: February 28, 2025
Cannabis and breastfeeding.
Aurélia Garry1, Virginie Rigourd, Ammar Amirouche
1Départment d'Ingénierie Biologique, Ecole Polytechnique de l'Université de Nice - Sophia Antipolis, 1645 Route des Lucioles, 06410 Biot, France.
Journal of Toxicology
|February 5, 2010
Summary
Postnatal cannabis exposure through breastfeeding may negatively impact infant motor development. Mothers using cannabis should cease breastfeeding or seek help to quit to ensure infant health.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neonatal Studies
- Public Health
Background:
- Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) is used recreationally and medicinally.
- Limited research exists on postnatal cannabis exposure via breastfeeding.
- Delta 9 TetraHydroCannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential adverse effects of cannabis exposure on infants through breastfeeding.
- To inform healthcare providers and mothers about risks associated with cannabis use during lactation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on cannabis use during breastfeeding.
- Analysis of existing studies on THC transfer and infant outcomes.
Main Results:
- Cannabis use during breastfeeding may lead to decreased infant motor development at one year of age.
- THC can be transmitted to the infant through breast milk.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis use is contraindicated during breastfeeding.
- Mothers using cannabis should stop breastfeeding or seek medical assistance to discontinue use.
- Prioritizing human milk benefits requires avoiding maternal cannabis consumption.
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