Perceived Impacts and Predictors of Cannabis Products Used by Patients with Rheumatologic Conditions in Alberta,...

This study aimed to characterize cannabis product choices (cannabinoid content and formulation) among patients with rheumatologic conditions and their associations with patient factors, patient-reported perceived side effects, and positive impacts.

An online survey (delivered from March to November 2022) was distributed by Alberta Health Services to patients with rheumatologic conditions in Alberta. Correlation matrices were used to analyze associations between cannabinoid content and formulations reportedly used with patient factors and patient-reported outcomes. Efficacy outcomes (eg, pain, sleep, mood) were grouped into a composite positive impact score, and side effects were grouped into central nervous system-activating, dampening, and sensory effects.

Data from 1,436 respondents who indicated cannabis use and provided information on their rheumatologic condition, cannabinoid content, and formulations that they use were analyzed. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-cannabidiol (CBD)-balanced products were associated with higher positive impact scores (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18-2.63). THC-dominant products were also associated with high dampening (aOR 1.85, 95% CI 1.16-2.98) and sensory effects (aOR 2.16, 95% CI 1.27-3.70). Dried cannabis and edibles were associated with higher positive impact scores (dried cannabis: aOR 1.86, 95% CI 1.07-3.23; edibles: aOR 2.18, 95% CI 1.41-3.37). Dried cannabis was also associated with high dampening (aOR 1.98, 95% CI 1.19-3.27) and sensory effects (aOR 3.05, 95% CI 1.67-5.58). Cannabis product choice varied by age, gender, comorbidities, prior cannabis experience, frequency of use, reasons for use, access to cannabis prescription, and source of cannabis information.

There is significant variability in cannabis products used by patients with rheumatologic conditions, who are influenced by patient-specific factors. Balancing THC and CBD content may facilitate positive impact while lowering the risk for side effects. Dried cannabis may pose more side effects compared to other formulations.