BookKenneth Finn, editor.
Summary: Legalization of marijuana is becoming increasingly prominent in the United States and around the world. While there is some discussion of the relationship between marijuana and overall health, a comprehensive resource that outlines the medical literature for several organ systems, as well as non-medical societal effects, has yet to be seen. While all physicians strive to practice evidence-based medicine, many clinicians aren't aware of the facts surrounding cannabis and are guided by public opinion. This first of its kind book is a comprehensive compilation of multiple facets of cannabis recommendation, use and effects from a variety of different perspectives. Comprised of chapters dedicated to separate fields of medicine, this evidence-based guide outlines the current data, or lack thereof, as well as the need for further study. The book begins with a general overview of the neurobiology and pharmacology of THC and hemp. It then delves into various medical concerns that plague specific disciplines of medicine such as psychiatry, cardiology, gastrointestinal and neurology, among others. The end of the book focuses on non-medical concerns such as public health and safety, driving impairment and legal implications. Comprised of case studies and meta-analyses, Cannabinoids in Medicine: An Evidence-Based Approach provides clinicians with with a concise, evidence-based guide to various health concerns related to the use of marijuana. By addressing non-medical concerns, this book is also a useful resource for professionals working in the public health and legal fields.
Contents:
Intro
Foreword
Losing Ground: The Rise of Cannabis Culture
Addressing the Wider Implications of Increasing Marijuana Use
Why Our Knowledge of the Risks in Cannabis Exposure Has Increased
Limitations to Our Knowledge: Inadequate Measures, No Real Baseline
Current Measurements of Marijuana Use Showing the Comparative Scope of the Problem
Marijuana Use in Sub-populations at High Risk
Monitoring the Future School-Based Data
Widening Societal Impact of Increased Marijuana Prevalence The Societal Impact of Expanded Cannabis Extends to the Use of Other Substances Of Abuse
Final Thoughts on the Wider Implications of Increased Use
Reference Section
Contents
Contributors
Part I: Basic Science
Chapter 1: The Properties and Use of Cannabis sativa Herb and Extracts
Background
THC
Methods of Use
Metabolism
Synthetic Cannabinoids and Cannabimimetics
Hemp
CBD
Conversion to THC
CBD as a Quality Medicine
Discussion
Summary
References
Chapter 2: Cannabinoid and Marijuana Neurobiology
Introduction Discovery, Evolutionary Origins, and Function of the Endocannabinoid System
Endocannabinoid System in the Brain
Endocannabinoid System Function in Early and Adolescent Brain Development
Overall Function of the Endocannabinoid System in the Brain [45]
Endocannabinoid System in Peripheral Tissues
Disturbances of the Endocannabinoid System in the Brain
Marijuana and the Brain: Receptors and Changes in Endocannabinoid Signaling
Conclusion
References
Chapter 3: The Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics, and Potential Drug Interactions of Cannabinoids Drug-Drug Interaction with Cannabinoids
Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics of Cannabinoids
Pharmacodynamics
Pharmacokinetics
Drug-Drug Interactions
Phase I Metabolism (Cytochrome P450)
Phase II Metabolism
Transport Proteins
Epidiolex® Drug-Drug Interactions
THC Drug-Drug Interactions
Conclusion
References
Part II: Clinical Evidence
Chapter 4: Cannabis and Neuropsychiatric Effects
Blunted: The Effects of Cannabis on Cognition and Motivation
Memory
Attention
Executive Function
Intelligence and IQ
Motivation
Mechanisms of Action Moderating Factors
Summary and Future Directions
Cannabis and Psychiatric Conditions
Psychosis
Depression and Anxiety
Addiction
Cannabis-Related Violence and Death
Potential Psychiatric Benefits of CBD
Conclusion
Cannabis Use and Psychosis, Mood, and Anxiety Disorders
Introduction
Increasing Cannabis Potency Post-legalization
Post-legalization Trends in the Prevalence and Frequency of Cannabis Use
Impact of Medical Legalization
What Does Research Tell Us About Cannabis Use and Mental Illness?
Cannabis, Psychosis, and Schizophrenia