The Relationship Between Cannabis Use and Schizophrenia As a Risk Factor or For Its Therapeutic Potential: A Systematic Review of Evidence
Cureus September 20, 2025 Jaisingh Rajput, Sandhya Narahari, Taha Bin Arif et al. 1 citation
A systematic review of studies published between 2017 and 2025 found strong evidence that using cannabis with high THC content significantly raises the risk of developing schizophrenia, especially among adolescents and people with a family vulnerability. THC also worsens positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms in those already diagnosed with schizophrenia. Cannabidiol (CBD) showed antipsychotic and neuroprotective properties and therapeutic potential, but clinical evidence remains limited, with most studies being small and lacking long-term follow-up. The review argues that distinguishing between cannabis components is essential for psychiatric discussions, and large controlled trials are needed to determine CBD's therapeutic limits.