Largest Cannabis Study Finds Self-Medication Raises Paranoia Risk

Recent research highlights significant health risks associated with cannabis use, particularly among those who self-medicate. A large three-year UK study found that individuals using cannabis to manage anxiety, depression, or pain tend to use it more heavily and face greater risks of paranoia compared to recreational users, with over half of participants reporting childhood trauma that may exacerbate these issues. A related clinical case series on cannabis-based medicinal products for complex regional pain syndrome showed some improvement in pain, anxiety, sleep quality, and overall health-related quality of life, although the findings warrant cautious interpretation due to study limitations. Another serious condition linked to long-term cannabis use is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), characterized by cyclic vomiting, severe nausea, and a distressing symptom called scromiting, which necessitates cessation of cannabis use for recovery. These findings underscore the complexity of cannabis effects, suggesting that while medicinal benefits exist for certain conditions, significant mental health and physical side effects must be carefully considered.