Clinical pattern of synthetic cannabinoids users in Upper Egypt: cross-sectional study
Middle East Current Psychiatry March 30, 2022 Wafaa M. Abdelmoneim, Nagwa M. Ghandour, M. Fawzy et al.
In a sample of fifty male users of synthetic cannabinoids in Upper Egypt, most were adolescents and young adults (68% aged 15–<35). Curiosity was the most common motivator for use. Alteration of perception occurred in 68% of subjects; dizziness, loss of consciousness, convulsion, and panic attacks were also reported. Cardiovascular effects included palpitations (76%) and chest pain (12%). Half reported financial problems and about one-third (32%) experienced domestic violence. Abnormal lab findings included anemia (12%), leukocytosis (10%), elevated liver enzymes (8%), and elevated kidney function (4%); 22% were positive for hepatitis C and 4% for HIV. The authors conclude that adolescents are the most common users and that neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular, and violence-related harms are associated with synthetic cannabinoid abuse.