Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2025

Brain Morphology of Cannabis Users With or Without Psychosis: A Pilot MRI Study
Published on: August 18, 2020
New insight in psychotic cannabis withdrawal: case series and brief overview
Valerio Ricci1, Domenico De Berardis2, Giovanni Martinotti3
1San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, University of Turin, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.
Background:
Cannabis is the most used recreational drug worldwide. Its use can increase the risk of developing psychotic disorders and exacerbate their course. However, little is known about the relationship between psychosis and withdrawal and the literature is still scarce.
Case Presentation:
In this study, based on an analysis of 4 patients referred to our mental health department and evaluated between 2019 and 2023, we describe psychotic features emerged after abrupt cannabis withdrawal and we attempt to explore its characteristics.
Conclusion:
Although it is difficult to show specific mechanisms underlying the psychopathological alterations in cannabis withdrawal induced psychosis, it is clear that this serious clinical picture could be a risk factor for precipitating psychosis especially in a vulnerable group of patients. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of a higher risk of psychotic onset associated not only with chronic cannabis use but also with its abrupt cessation.
Related Concept Videos
Psychosis and Antipsychotic Drugs: Overview
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Psychosis: Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
Researchers have identified genetic factors that increase susceptibility to schizophrenia, underscoring the intricate interplay between genetics and environment in disease development. At the core of schizophrenia's pathophysiology is excessive dopaminergic neurotransmission within...
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy
Hallucinogens and Psychedelics
Marijuana, derived from the dried leaves and flowers of the hemp plant, contains...

