34th AM (2023) - Poster Session-Awareness of Cannabis Products Used by Adolscents in a Pediatric Addiction Clinic

Awareness of Cannabis Products Used by Adolscents in a Pediatric Addiction Clinic

Pdf Summary

The use of cannabis products, particularly vaped cannabis, has increased among children and adolescents. This is concerning as calls to poison control for cannabis ingestion have also increased significantly. The Hemp Act of 2018 allowed cannabinoid derivatives such as delta-8 and delta-10 THC to enter the market, presenting legal alternatives that are more accessible to younger populations. However, the awareness and health impacts of different cannabis products have not been extensively studied, and their associations with mental health disorders are still being researched.<br /><br />The study conducted a retrospective chart review on patients who reported cannabis use or had a diagnosis of cannabis use disorder (CUD) at a pediatric addiction clinic. Out of the 49 patients in the study, 35 reported cannabis use, and 56% of them had a diagnosis of CUD. Interestingly, 82% of patients who used cannabis reported using different products and/or routes of administration. The most commonly used product was the plant form, followed by vapes/cartridges and edibles. Additionally, some patients reported using delta-8 or delta-10 THC.<br /><br />In terms of comorbid mental health conditions, 63% of patients with CUD also had a diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD), 47% had concurrent anxiety disorder, 26% had ADHD, and 26% had PTSD.<br /><br />The findings highlight the need for healthcare providers to be aware that patients may be using different forms of cannabis without knowledge of the associated risks. The study also emphasizes the lack of literature on cannabis use, particularly regarding strain and route of administration, in the pediatric population. These findings serve as a starting point for further research and studies in this field.<br /><br />Overall, the increasing use of cannabis, especially among young people, raises concerns for pediatricians and mental health providers. It is essential to gain a better understanding of the different cannabis products being used and their potential impacts on mental health.

Keywords

cannabis products

vaped cannabis

children

adolescents

poison control

Hemp Act of 2018

cannabinoid derivatives

delta-8 THC

delta-10 THC

mental health disorders

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