Synthetic cannabinoid use among college students

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Toxicology

Background:

• Synthetic cannabinoid use poses significant health risks, including psychosis and organ failure.
• Young adults represent a particularly vulnerable demographic for synthetic cannabinoid experimentation and abuse.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence, associated factors, and adverse consequences of synthetic cannabinoid use in a young adult population.
• To identify specific risk factors and patterns of use among undergraduate students.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was administered to 1140 undergraduate students.
• The survey assessed synthetic cannabinoid use, its consequences, and related behavioral constructs.

Main Results:

• Lifetime synthetic cannabinoid use was reported by 7.9% of students, with 15.6% of users being regular users.
• Users experienced adverse effects like anxiety and paranoia, with 16.7% considering emergency room visits.
• Natural cannabis users showed a significantly higher likelihood (OR=7.63) of having used synthetic cannabinoids, with 92.2% reporting prior natural cannabis use.
• Primary motivations for synthetic cannabinoid use included perceived legality, avoidance of drug tests, and availability, rather than perceived safety or enjoyment.

Conclusions:

• Synthetic cannabinoid use is linked to numerous negative health outcomes and emergency care utilization.
• A strong association exists between natural cannabis use and synthetic cannabinoid use, identifying natural cannabis users as a high-risk group.
• Prevention and treatment strategies should address the convenience-driven motivations and the link with natural cannabis use.