Varenicline for Cannabis Use Disorder: Potential Benefits & Research
A new randomized controlled trial has found promising evidence that the smoking cessation medication varenicline (Chantix/Champix) can help people with cannabis use disorder (CUD) to reduce cannabis use. CUD is a rising problem globally, partly due to recent legalization in several countries and US states, and until now no medications have been found to treat it.
CUD is characterized by continued use of cannabis despite “clinically significant impairment” such as ignoring crucial social, occupational, or recreational activities and persistent use despite physical or psychological problems associated with cannabis. Cannabis use is also associated with psychosis, sleep disorders, withdrawal, and mood and anxiety disorders.
Varenicline is an effective medication for quitting tobacco. This trial, conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina and published in Addiction, tested whether varenicline could help with CUD.
Results showed it helped men reduce cannabis use, but not women. (Varenicline works equally well for both sexes as a stop-smoking aid.)
The trial included 174 participants w
A new study reveals a significant link between cannabis use and an increased risk of psychosis, particularly among young people. Researchers found that individuals who use cannabis are three times more likely to develop psychotic disorders compared to those who don’t, according to findings published today in the journal Addiction.
The research, conducted by a team at King’s college London, analyzed data from over two million individuals across multiple studies. It strengthens existing evidence suggesting cannabis use can trigger or exacerbate psychotic symptoms in vulnerable populations.
Here’s what the study focused on:
- Population Studied: Data from over two million individuals.
- Key Finding: cannabis users showed a threefold increase in the risk of developing psychotic disorders.
- Vulnerability: The risk is highest among young people and those with pre-existing mental health conditions.
Researchers emphasize that the relationship isn’t necessarily causal for everyone. Though,they believe cannabis use can accelerate the onset of psychosis in individuals already predisposed to it. the study did not explore the impact of varying cannabis potency or frequency of use,leaving room for further inquiry.
“These findings underscore the importance of public health messaging regarding the potential risks of cannabis, especially for young people,” said Dr. Emma Stone, lead author of the study. ”It’s crucial to have open and honest conversations about the potential impact on mental health.”
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides further data on cannabis and its effects: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana
The study authors plan to continue their research, focusing on the specific mechanisms by which cannabis may contribute to psychosis and identifying individuals most at risk.