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Cannabinoids and Psychosis

Linda A. Parker

Cannabinoids and the Brain March 1, 2017 DOI: 10.7551/mitpress/9780262035798.003.0004 (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Review Peer reviewed
Key findings There is a modest association between cannabis exposure, particularly in adolescence, and later development of schizophrenia, but whether this relationship is causal is debated.

Abstract

Clearly the majority of people who use marijuana do not develop schizophrenia. Yet, the human literature suggests that there is a modest association between cannabis exposure (particularly in adolescence) and later development of schizophrenia--whether or not this association is causal is hotly debated. This chapter reviews some of the evidence for and against such a causal relationship. The chapter concludes with the suggestion that individuals with a family history of schizophrenia, with prodromal symptoms, or who have experienced discreet episodes of psychosis related to cannabis use, may be best served not using THC-predominant marijuana.