Overview
Cannabis dependence involves compulsive use despite harmful consequences, characterized by tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty controlling use 1.Diagnosis
Clinical Criteria: Symptoms include tolerance, withdrawal, persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use 1.
Screening Tools: Not specified in provided abstracts.
Laboratory Tests: Not typically required for diagnosis 1.Management
Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management are recommended 1.
Pharmacotherapy: No specific drug classes or doses mentioned in the abstracts 1.
Support Groups: Participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous can be beneficial 1.Special Populations
Pregnancy: Providers should counsel on minimizing risks; reasons for continued or ceased use during pregnancy should be understood 1.
Pediatrics: Intentional cannabis use among adolescents is noted, with inadvertent ingestions primarily by young children at home; heightened vigilance needed 2.
Elderly: Not addressed in provided abstracts.
Comorbidities: Not specifically detailed in the abstracts 12.Key Recommendations
Counsel pregnant individuals on risks of prenatal cannabis use and factors influencing cessation or continuation [Evidence: Moderate] 1.
Implement strict monitoring and prevention strategies for pediatric cannabis ingestions, particularly in homes where cannabis is present [Evidence: Weak] 2.
Utilize behavioral therapies such as CBT for managing cannabis dependence [Evidence: Expert opinion] 1.References
1 Grandy C, Donnan J, Bishop L, Vidyasankar A, Blackmore A. An Update on Perinatal Cannabis Use. Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology Canada : JOGC = Journal d'obstetrique et gynecologie du Canada : JOGC 2022. link
2 Cheng P, Zagaran A, Rajabali F, Turcotte K, Babul S. Setting the baseline: a description of cannabis poisonings at a Canadian pediatric hospital prior to the legalization of recreational cannabis. Health promotion and chronic disease prevention in Canada : research, policy and practice 2020. link