Abstract Lower respiratory infections predominantly affect children under five and the elderly, with influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial viruses (including SARS-CoV-2) being the most common pathogens. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant global public health challenges. While vaccination remains crucial, its efficacy is limited, highlighting the need for complementary approaches to mitigate immune hyperactivation in severe COVID-19 cases. Medicinal plants like Cannabis sativa show therapeutic potential, with over 85% of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients in China receiving traditional herbal treatments. This review explores the antiviral applications of cannabis and its bioactive compounds, particularly against SARS-CoV-2, while evaluating their pharmacological and food industry potential. Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids,...

Abstract Cannabis use has become increasingly prevalent due to legalization and social acceptance, raising concerns about its potential health impacts, particularly on respiratory and oncological outcomes. Despite sharing toxic constituents with tobacco smoke, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds, the link between cannabis smoking and lung cancer remains inconclusive. Epidemiological studies present conflicting findings, with some suggesting increased risk among heavy users, particularly when combined with tobacco, while others find no significant association. Chronic cannabis smoking has been associated with respiratory symptoms such as cough, sputum production and wheezing, often resembling chronic bronchitis. These symptoms may resolve upon cessation, indicating inflammatory rather...

Please use this link to access this publication. ABSTRACT Cannabis is the most commonly used federally illicit substance during pregnancy in the United States, with an estimated prevalence of 3% to 30%. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics discourage cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to safety concerns for the fetus and infant. Despite these recommendations, nearly half of active cannabis users continue use in pregnancy. In this review, we summarize cannabis pharmacology and metabolism with a focus on delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant, highlighting its significance in quantifying exposure and the impact...

Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract Objective: We conducted a systematic review evaluating the extant literature examining the impacts of cannabis use on HIV-related outcomes among Black sexual minoritized men (BSMM). Design: A systematic review. Methods: We conducted a search in November 2024 of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science using keywords related to BSMM, HIV, and cannabis. Study quality was assessed utilizing a tool developed for observational studies. One hundred eight unique articles were screened with 55 undergoing full-text review, and 20 met inclusion criteria. Results were synthesized and presented utilizing a narrative review process. Results: We identified...

Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract Objective This meta-analysis aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of cannabis in the management of Crohn’s disease (CD) by synthesizing evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). By adhering to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines and registering the study protocol with PROSPERO, this research intends to offer robust, evidence-based recommendations for healthcare practitioners on the therapeutic potential and clinical implications of cannabis use in CD management. Methods A literature search encompassing PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library was conducted to identify relevant RCTs comparing cannabis to placebo or standard therapy in CD patients. Inclusion...

Abstract Pre-clinical research and case reports have linked cannabis use to myocardial infarction (MI) since the 1970s. The association with MI may be specific to certain types and patterns of cannabis use as well as certain consumer characteristics; however, due to limited data availability, meta-analyses examining the association between cannabis use and MI typically report only broad binary categorisations of use vs. no use. Robust prospective studies that capture the complexities of consumption patterns are required to inform causal inferences. In the meantime, clinicians should be aware of the potential increased risk of myocardial infarction in young healthy patients presenting with chest pain and...

Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract Purpose The purposes of this scoping review were to: (1) systematically evaluate the literature on the types and effectiveness of cannabis and cannabinoids for pain management in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD), (2) assess the effect of cannabis and cannabinoids on pain outcomes, and (3) identify research gaps. Design Systematic scoping review. Methods Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, relevant studies were identified across PubMed, CINAHL, and Cannakeys databases. Inclusion criteria were studies involving medical and recreational cannabis use in adult SCD patients addressing...

Abstract Objectives/Background: The Cannabis genus contain a mixture of cannabinoids and other minor components which have been studied so far. In this narrative review, we highlight the main aspects of the polarized discussion between abuse and toxicity versus the benefits of the compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Methods: We investigated databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and World Anti-doping Agency (WADA) documents for scientific publications that can elucidate the heated discussion related to the negative aspects of addiction, organ damage and improved sports performance and the medical benefits, particularly in athletes, of some compounds that are promising as nutrients. Results: Scientific arguments bring forward...

Abstract Cannabis use is highly prevalent in people with schizophrenia and is related to adverse clinical outcomes, including relapse and hospitalization. However, the relationship between cannabis and suicide remains inconclusive. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the relationship between cannabis use and suicide-related outcomes in people with schizophrenia. A comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, and PsycINFO for cross-sectional, case-control, and longitudinal studies was conducted using search terms from database inception to November 2024 inclusive. Computation of odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) was performed using random effects models with DerSimonian-Laird estimation. All studies were appraised for quality. We also evaluated heterogeneity,...

Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract Cannabis contains compounds like delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, which are commonly used for epilepsy, anxiety and chronic pain. Medical marijuana involves the utilization of cannabis for therapeutic objectives, such as the management of various ailments. Given the vast array of potential pharmacological and medicinal applications of cannabis and its by-products, there has been a surge of interest in developing cannabis-related products. Because it presents a potential health hazard and is still under clinical investigation, a set of guidelines is needed for its safe use. Based on market research, medicinal cannabis development is currently established worldwide, including...