March 20, 2024

What is the relationship between marijuana use and psychosis? While cannabis has been associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis, the exact relationship between the two is not fully understood as described in a recent opinion piece by Dr. David Nathan and former MCRC Speaker Series presenter, Dr. Peter Grinspoon.

The authors noted that rates of schizophrenia have remained stable while worldwide as cannabis use has increased. If cannabis directly caused schizophrenia, we would expect to see a rise in schizophrenia rates, which hasn’t occurred. Conversely, cannabis may hurry the onset of psychosis in vulnerable individuals. Among people at risk for psychosis, the condition can be triggered by using cannabis or other drugs. For example, cannabis use in combination with genetic risk of schizophrenia plays a role in onset of schizophrenia, but cannabis use alone is not associated with the onset of schizophrenia. Individuals with personal history of schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders should avoid cannabis use unless medically necessary. However, cannabidiol (CBD) is proven to have anti-psychotic characteristics. This suggests that cannabis with higher levels of CBD in combination with THC or lower levels of THC, may have a lower risk of triggering psychosis while benefitting at-risk individuals. Those that are at-risk for psychosis and teens are encouraged to delay their use of cannabis.

This opinion piece is not medical advice so please consult with your doctor to discuss how cannabis may impact your health.