Associations of cannabis potency with mental ill health and addiction: a systemic review

The Lancet Psychiatry

Cannabis potency, defined as the concentration of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has increased internationally, which could increase the risk of adverse health outcomes for cannabis users. This is the first systematic review of the association of cannabis potency with mental health and addiction. Overall, use of higher potency cannabis, relative to lower potency cannabis, was associated with an increased risk of psychosis and Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). Evidence varied for depression and anxiety. The association of cannabis potency with CUD and psychosis highlights its relevance in health-care settings and for public health guidelines and policies on cannabis sales. Standardization of exposure measures and longitudinal designs are needed to strengthen the evidence of this association.

 

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