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Adverse effects of cannabis
1National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Lancet (London, England)
|December 8, 1998
Summary
Cannabis use has potential adverse health and psychological effects, both short-term and long-term. Medical professionals should advise patients on these probable risks, despite ongoing debates about cannabis.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cannabis is a widely used illicit drug with debated health effects.
- Polarized opinions on cannabis risks hinder medical advice consensus.
- Conflicting evidence exists regarding cannabis's acute and chronic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize evidence on probable adverse health and psychological consequences of cannabis use.
- To guide medical practitioners in advising patients about cannabis risks.
- To address the lack of consensus on health information for cannabis users.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing evidence on cannabis health effects.
- Analysis of probable adverse outcomes from acute and chronic use.
- Synthesis of information to formulate practical advice for clinicians.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests probable adverse health and psychological consequences of cannabis use.
- Specific risks associated with acute and chronic cannabis consumption are identified.
- Uncertainty in evidence should not preclude medical advice.
Conclusions:
- Medical practitioners can and should advise patients on likely cannabis ill-effects.
- Clearer guidance is needed for healthcare providers on cannabis risk communication.
- Informing patients about probable adverse effects is crucial for harm reduction.