2026-2027 | Live Session | Cannabis Use Disorder, Cannabis-Related Disorders, and Board Review | October 2026-Cannabis Use Disorder, Cannabis-Related Disorders, and Board Review Presentation

Cannabis Use Disorder, Cannabis-Related Disorders, and Board Review Presentation

Pdf Summary

The lecture reviews cannabis use disorder (CUD), cannabis-related conditions, and clinical management. Cannabis contains many cannabinoids; THC is the primary intoxicating compound, while CBD may modulate some THC effects. THC acts mainly through cannabinoid receptors and can affect cognition, coordination, mood, appetite, cardiovascular function, and reward pathways. Chronic heavy use is associated with reduced CB1 receptor availability and impaired attention, memory, and inhibition.<br /><br />Cannabis use is increasing, including daily or near-daily use. Risk of CUD rises with frequency and is greater when use begins in adolescence. The presentation notes substantial psychiatric and substance-use comorbidity, including mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, and alcohol or other substance use disorders. DSM-5 defines CUD on a mild-to-severe spectrum; cannabis withdrawal is a recognized syndrome, commonly involving irritability, anxiety, low mood, sleep problems, and appetite changes. Other cannabis-related conditions include anxiety, psychosis, sleep disturbance, and, rarely, delirium. High-THC products and early initiation may increase risks.<br /><br />The speakers discuss the effects of changing cannabis laws, historical stigma, limited research, and the growth of unregulated hemp-derived intoxicating products such as delta-8 THC. They emphasize screening higher-risk groups, delaying initiation, choosing lower-THC products, reducing frequency, avoiding impaired driving, and preventing use among adolescents.<br /><br />Psychotherapy has the strongest evidence for CUD: motivational enhancement therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and contingency management can reduce use, though abstinence outcomes are modest and may decline after treatment. No medication is established as a standard CUD treatment, but THC agonists may help withdrawal, while gabapentin, naltrexone, and N-acetylcysteine for adolescents show potential. Combining medication with counseling may improve outcomes. Tailored approaches should consider age, patient goals, comorbidities, and treatment access.

Keywords

cannabis use disorder

THC

cannabidiol

cannabis withdrawal

CB1 receptors

psychotherapy

motivational enhancement therapy

cognitive behavioral therapy

contingency management

delta-8 THC