Cannabis
type: channel
description: Cannabis is an open access peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the scientific study of marijuana/cannabis from a multidisciplinary perspective. Consistent with the mission of the Research Society on Marijuana (RSMj), the journal publishes empirical research of the determinants, correlates, consequences, contexts, and assessment of marijuana use as well as the treatment of problematic marijuana use, including cannabis use disorder. The journal covers research across the human spectrum (note that we currently do not accept animal model research).
publisher: The Research Society on Marijuana
language: en
publication name: Cannabis
issn: 2578-0026
items: Abstracts from the 2025 Scientific Meeting of the Research Society on Marijuana July 18-20, 2025
items: Perceived Ethnic Discrimination and Negative Emotional Reactivity to Minority Stress: Association with Cannabis Use Processes Among United States Hispanic/Latinx Adults
items: Current and Projected Cannabis Demand Predict Future Consumption in Young Adults Who Use Cannabis
items: Cannabis Dispensary Staff ("Budtender") Perspectives on Trustworthiness of Social Media Information: A Qualitative Study
items: Dispensing Medical Advice: San Francisco Bay Area Budtender Recommendations for Pain and Sleep Relief
items: Understanding the Relationships between ADHD Symptoms and Cannabis-Related Consequences among Young Adults
items: Associations of Disability and Social Support with Cannabis Use Among Adults with Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms
items: “If You Need to Light Up … You Gotta Do What You Gotta Do”: A Qualitative Study of Adolescent Attitudes Towards Cannabis Use and Comparison with Alcohol Attitudes
items: The Impact of Adult Cannabis Use Legalization in California: A Qualitative Review of Subject Matter Expert Opinions on Proposition 64
items: Abstracts from the 2025 Research Society on Marijuana and Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco Post- Conference Workshop March 15, 2025
items: Marketing Management and Policymaking for Medical Cannabis: Overcoming Barriers and Shaping Strategies
items: Cannabis Products and Use Patterns Associated with Cannabis Use Disorder Symptoms Among Youth in Southern California
items: Cannabis Use for Medical or Non-Medical Purposes in a Sample of Young Adult Cancer Survivors in the United States
items: Developing a Mock Retail Cannabis Shop for Research: A Description of The CANNEX
items: Same Story, Different Seller: Teaching the Public How Cannabis Models Driven by Profit Create the Same Injustices as Prohibition
items: Cannabis Use and Perceptions of Cannabis Safety, Effectiveness, and Stigma amongst older Canadians: A Cross-Sectional Survey
items: Cannabis Use Characteristics and Reasons for Product Choices Among Patients Accessing Treatment for Substance Use Disorders: A Mixed-Methods Study
items: Cannabis Use Patterns and Co-Use of Alcohol and Nicotine in Adults Over 50 by Demographic Factors and Medical Cannabis Use
items: Budtender Perceptions and Knowledge of Cannabis and Mental Health: A Preliminary Study
items: Special Section Editor: Abstracts from the 2024 Scientific Meeting of the Research Society on Marijuana July 19th -21st, 2024
items: Temporal Trends in Young Adult Cannabis and Tobacco Use in States with Different Cannabis Policies
items: Estimating Cannabis Consumption in Milligrams of THC From Self-Reported Hit Size
items: What Are Tolerance Breaks and Why Do Young Adults Take Them? A Qualitative Investigation of Temporary Abstinence Breaks from Cannabis
items: Missouri College Students' Intentions Towards Initiating or Changing Cannabis Use in a Shifting Legal Landscape
items: https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/287
items: Measuring the Association Between Cannabis Dispensary Density and Adult Consumption in a Statewide Setting: Does Urbanicity Matter?
items: Acute Stress Effect on Delay Discounting and Cannabis Demand Among Individuals Endorsing High-Frequency Cannabis Use
items: Legal Recreational Cannabis Sales and Opioid-Related Mortality in the 5 Years Following Cannabis Legalization in Canada: A Granger Causality Analysis
items: Predictors of Response to Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain: A Retrospective Review of Real-Time Observational Data
items: https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/277

Abstracts from the 2025 Scientific Meeting of the Research Society on Marijuana July 18-20, 2025
type: item
subject: Conference Abstracts
  topic: section
creator: Lauren Micalizzi
creator: Kyra Farrelly
creator: Stephanie Penta
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Lauren Micalizzi, Kyra Farrelly, Stephanie Penta http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 152
ending page: 261

Perceived Ethnic Discrimination and Negative Emotional Reactivity to Minority Stress: Association with Cannabis Use Processes Among United States Hispanic/Latinx Adults
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis use has been increasing among the Hispanic/Latinx population in the United States (US). Little research has expressly focused on culturally relevant factors related to cannabis use processes and problems among this group. The present investigation sought to help bridge this gap and test the main and interactive effects of perceived ethnic discrimination and negative emotional reactivity to minority stress in terms of cannabis use processes, including perceived barriers for cannabis reduction, cannabis use problems, and cannabis use motives, among Hispanic/Latinx adults in the US. Method: Participants were recruited through Qualtrics Panels and included 521 adults who engaged in current (past month) cannabis use (Mage = 36.52 years, SD = 10.26; 55.1% male). Results: In adjusted models, for perceived barriers for cannabis reduction and cessation as well as cannabis use problems, both perceived ethnic discrimination and negative emotional reactivity to minority stress were independently associated with higher odds of endorsement. For cannabis use motives, negative emotional reactivity to minority stress was positively associated with enhancement, social, coping, and expansion motives, whereas perceived ethnic discrimination was a contributor to conformity motives; effects ranged from small to medium. No interactive effects emerged as statistically significant. Conclusions: The current findings suggest that among the U.S. Hispanic/Latinx population, screening and intervening upon perceived ethnic discrimination and negative emotional reactivity to minority stress may help mitigate challenges with the continued use of cannabis.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Michael J. Zvolensky
creator: Bryce K. Clausen
creator: Ava A. Jones
creator: Rodrigo Castillo-Avilés
creator: Jessica M. Thai
creator: Justin M. Shepherd
creator: Lucas Bogiaizian
creator: Brooke Y. Redmond
creator: Lorra Garey
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Michael J. Zvolensky, Bryce K. Clausen, Ava A. Jones, Rodrigo Castillo-Avilés, Jessica M. Thai, Justin M. Shepherd, Lucas Bogiaizian, Brooke Y. Redmond, Lorra Garey http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 38
ending page: 55

Current and Projected Cannabis Demand Predict Future Consumption in Young Adults Who Use Cannabis
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis demand, as measured by the Marijuana Purchase Task (MPT), holds associations with concurrent cannabis consumption and associated risks (e.g., cannabis use disorder [CUD]). As few studies have examined prospective associations between cannabis demand and future cannabis use, the current study examined this association in young adults who use cannabis. In addition, the present study explored the novel construct of projected future cannabis demand and its associations with future cannabis use. Method: Participants first completed a current Time1 (T1) MPT, projected future Time2 (T2) MPT (i.e., “three months from now”), and measures of past-month cannabis use frequency and CUD symptoms during an initial session. They returned three months later (T2) to complete a current T2 MPT and measures of cannabis use and CUD symptoms. Results: Measures across the three MPTs (observed T1, projected future T2, and observed T2) indicate relatively stability of demand across time and accuracy in projecting future demand. Prospective associations between T1 demand measures and cannabis use were observed, with both observed T1 and projected future T2 demand measures associated with T2 cannabis use frequency. Conclusions: Results of the current study highlight the potential of current and projected future cannabis demand measures to better understand the trajectory of cannabis use in this high-risk population.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Rebecca Kurnellas
creator: Cassandra A. Sutton
creator: Daiil Jun
creator: Hailey Taylor
creator: Aaron P. Smith
creator: Ricarda Foxx
creator: Ali M. Yurasek
creator: Richard Yi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rebecca Kurnellas, Cassandra A. Sutton, Daiil Jun, Hailey Taylor, Aaron P. Smith, Ricarda Foxx, Ali M. Yurasek, Richard Yi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 56
ending page: 71

Cannabis Dispensary Staff ("Budtender") Perspectives on Trustworthiness of Social Media Information: A Qualitative Study
type: item
description: Objective: Scientific and medical sources continue to be outpaced by the burgeoning cannabis marketplace regarding emerging forms of cannabis, leaving consumers with a great deal of uncertainty about safety and efficacy that may be addressed in cannabis dispensary and online settings. The present study examines how cannabis dispensary staff (“budtenders”) use and evaluate the trustworthiness of online information about cannabis, especially social media content. Method: Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with San Francisco Bay Area budtenders (n = 18) and analyzed thematically. Results: Social media was not viewed as a reliable information source for dispensary-based social interactions. Budtenders were skeptical of most commercially-oriented social media content and frustrated with inconsistent content moderation practices of social media platforms. Budtenders instead preferred offline information sources and relationships, as well as information derived from first and secondhand experiences with cannabis products. When evaluating information on social media, online settings promoting privacy, community moderation, and accountability were seen as features of trustworthy environments. Budtenders also expressed a range of confidence in medical, natural healing, and personal experience frameworks of health and cannabis knowledge production; concordance of social media content with these frameworks was an additional signal of trustworthy information. Conclusions: This research highlights the role of budtenders in evaluating and triangulating emerging online cannabis information sources for consumers and the varied features and signals that cue budtenders to consider some online information as more trustworthy and credible for cannabis consumers.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Meredith C. Meacham
creator: Maha N. Mian
creator: Danielle Schell
creator: Coye Cheshire
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Meredith C. Meacham, Maha N. Mian, Danielle Schell, Coye Cheshire http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-12-22
publication date: 2025-12-22

Dispensing Medical Advice: San Francisco Bay Area Budtender Recommendations for Pain and Sleep Relief
type: item
description: Objective: Evidence regarding the efficacy of various forms of cannabis and cannabinoid concentrations is limited, and cannabis industry regulatory infrastructure is still in development. Meanwhile, most US states have legalized medical or adult use cannabis. This study aimed to understand what advice cannabis budtenders in the San Francisco Bay Area were providing to customers for pain and sleep trouble – two of the conditions most cited as reasons for using cannabis medicinally. Method: We visited 35 of 42 cannabis dispensaries in Alameda and San Francisco Counties in California, and using a “secret shopper” approach, asked the budtenders for recommendations on products, dosage, and strains to best alleviate pain and sleep trouble. Results: For pain relief, budtenders showed a strong preference for topicals (77.1%), while edibles were most indicated for sleep trouble (60.0%). Reasons provided included budtender personal experience and product effectiveness. Cannabidiol (CBD) was endorsed most often for pain relief in high CBD:THC ratios (28.6%), 1:1 ratios (28.6%), and CBD alone (22.9%). For sleep relief, tetrahydrocannabidiol (THC) alone was most recommended (34.3%). When asked about cannabis strains for pain, 85.7% of budtenders did not express a preference, but for sleep, 57.1% of budtenders selected indica. Conclusions: This study illustrates that budtenders in the Bay Area have specific ideas about cannabis uses, including types, concentrations, and strains, despite a lack of evidence for most recommendations. Future research should prioritize study of topical preparations of cannabis for pain, edibles for sleep, and tinctures for both, which budtenders regularly recommended to customers.
subject: Brief Report
  topic: section
creator: Christine Hoang
creator: Louisa M. Holmes
creator: Pamela M. Ling
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Pamela M. Ling, Christine Hoang, Louisa M. Holmes http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 1
ending page: 8

Understanding the Relationships between ADHD Symptoms and Cannabis-Related Consequences among Young Adults
type: item
description: Objective: The link between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and cannabis-related problems is well documented, though research has primarily focused on cannabis use disorder (CUD) or cannabis consequences in aggregate. This study examined how inattentive (IN) versus hyperactive/impulsive (HI) ADHD symptoms relate to CUD symptoms as well as distinct domains of cannabis consequences (social-interpersonal consequences, impaired control, negative self-perception, self-care, risk behaviors, academic/occupational consequences, physical dependence, and blackout use) in young adults. Total amount of cannabis flower used over the past 90 days was explored as a potential mediator of these associations. Â Method: Young adults (N = 160; 41% male; ages 19-25, M = 22, SD = 2.06) with a history of regular cannabis use completed self-report measures of ADHD symptoms and cannabis consequences. Participants also completed a 90-day Timeline Follow Back assessing grams of cannabis flower consumed each day, along with a structured clinical interview for CUD. Results: IN symptoms were directly associated with cannabis-related occupational/academic consequences, self-care consequences, and blackouts/memory impairment, independent of quantity of cannabis consumption. HI symptoms showed positive indirect associations with physical dependence, impaired control, and CUD through greater amount of cannabis used. Conversely, IN symptoms had negative indirect associations with these outcomes, mediated by amount of cannabis used. Conclusions: Findings reveal distinct pathways through which IN and HI ADHD symptoms relate to cannabis problems in young adults. Findings highlight the need to consider ADHD symptom domains separately when assessing specific cannabis-related risks, which may have implications for tailoring interventions.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Claire Minister
creator: Christian S. Hendershot
creator: Matthew T. Keough
creator: Jeffrey D. Wardell
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Claire Minister, Christian S. Hendershot, Matthew T. Keough, Jeffrey D. Wardell http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 116
ending page: 132

Associations of Disability and Social Support with Cannabis Use Among Adults with Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms
type: item
description: Objective: People with (versus without) disabilities may be more likely to use cannabis medicinally, especially if they lack social support to cope with symptoms. However, associations of social support and disability with cannabis use remain largely unexplored. Method: Adults with clinically significant anxiety and/or depressive symptoms participating in a clinical trial completed a baseline survey assessing past-month medical and recreational cannabis use, self-perceived disability (yes/no), perceived social support, and sociodemographics. Regression models examined the association between disability and social support, and the main and interactive effects of disability and social support on past-month medical and recreational cannabis use, adjusting for race and ethnicity, gender, age, and income. Results: The sample (N = 822) was 25.3% American Indian, 25.1% Black, 25.1% White, and 24.6% Latinx (64.6% female; Mage = 38.3 [SD = 12.8]). Half (51.1%) self-reported a health condition that limited activities (i.e., disability); 24.9% reported past-month medical cannabis use, and 25.4% reported past-month recreational cannabis use. Participants with a self-reported disability reported lower average social support than those without (p = .031). A significant (p = .045) disability X social support interaction indicated that social support was associated with lower odds of medical cannabis use among those without (p = .038), but not with (p = .525), disability. Disability and social support were not significantly associated with recreational cannabis use (p-values > .05). Conclusions: Individuals with disabilities had elevated odds of using medical cannabis, regardless of social support. Social support is imperative for well-being, and cannabis use may alleviate some symptoms; however, more accessible, comprehensive healthcare may be needed to support individuals with disabilities.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Erin A. Vogel
creator: Katelyn F. Romm
creator: DJ McMaughan
creator: Michael J. Zvolensky
creator: Lorra Garey
creator: Michael S. Businelle
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Erin A. Vogel, Katelyn F. Romm, DJ McMaughan, Michael J. Zvolensky, Lorra Garey, Michael S. Businelle http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 103
ending page: 115

“If You Need to Light Up … You Gotta Do What You Gotta Do”: A Qualitative Study of Adolescent Attitudes Towards Cannabis Use and Comparison with Alcohol Attitudes
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis and alcohol are among the substances most frequently used by adolescents. Adolescents also frequently co-use these substances, with use of alcohol predicting subsequent initiation of cannabis use, and vice-versa. Minimal research has explored adolescents’ attitudes towards cannabis use qualitatively, and how these attitudes may directly/indirectly relate to attitudes towards alcohol use and vice versa. Method: Forty U.S. adolescents (MAge = 16.68, SD = 0.86) who had recently completed a study reporting their in-vivo exposure to substance use content in media completed follow-up interviews focused on substance depictions in media and attitudes towards substance use. Interviews were individual, semi-structured, and approximately one hour long. A priori codes were derived from the interview agenda. Interviews were transcribed and qualitatively coded by a team of three graduate students. Percent agreement across coders was 80%, suggesting substantial agreement. Results: Several themes emerged from analysis. Most adolescents reported that their approval/disapproval of cannabis use was contingent on several factors including legality, age, degree of use/problematic use, and purpose (i.e., medicinal/recreational). Participants more commonly endorsed cannabis use as more acceptable than alcohol. Common reasons for this comparative approval included perceived social and health impacts (e.g., alcohol poisoning, liver disease), perceived addictive potential, and different effects of intoxication. Conclusions: Results of the present study provide rich context to recent trends in adolescent cannabis and alcohol use and perceptions, as well as co-use and abstention. Understanding teens’ attitudes towards substance use may be beneficial in developing appropriate substance prevention and intervention strategies (e.g., effectively communicating health risks of cannabis use).
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Alex Clement
creator: Erin Corcoran
creator: Kristina M. Jackson
creator: Joy Gabrielli
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Alex Clement, Erin Corcoran, Kristina M. Jackson, Joy Gabrielli http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 133
ending page: 151

The Impact of Adult Cannabis Use Legalization in California: A Qualitative Review of Subject Matter Expert Opinions on Proposition 64
type: item
description: Objective: California Â legalized adult cannabis use in 2016 with the passing of Proposition 64: The Adult Use Marijuana Act (Prop 64). This qualitative study aimed to explore the impact of legalization on various stakeholders and institutions within California, especially as it relates to public policy, health, and safety. Method: Twenty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted from January to March 2022 with stakeholders that included Subject Matter Experts (SME) from the following categories: clinicians (primary care, pain management, addiction medicine, cannabis clinicians), researchers, advocates, dispensary owners/personnel, legal professionals, and cannabis consumers. Nine interview guides were constructed to assess participants' perceptions of Prop 64 and its impact on their given sector/industry as it relates to the use, production, distribution, and access to medicinal and adult cannabis use. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify salient themes from the interviews. Results: The three primary themes and subthemes included: (1) Successes of Prop 64 (quality control, justice reform, stigma reduction), (2) Shortcomings of Prop 64 (high cost, licensing, bureaucracy, social inequity), and (3) Recommendations for improvement of Prop 64 (need for research, policy change, the transformation of business model). Conclusions: The implementation of cannabis legalization in California had a broad impact on many key stakeholders. While demonstrating some success, SME described key areas for improvement of Prop 64. A multidisciplinary approach with support from government, state, and local municipalities is necessary to facilitate proper regulation, provide timely support, and reduce social injustice, harm, and unforeseen consequences of use. Updating federal regulations (e.g., Schedule I status) might be an important step to allow for improving regulation and operations (e.g. banking) within the cannabis industry, further research and education, and greater cr…
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Daniel Ageze
creator: Renee Dell'Acqua
creator: Thomas D. Marcotte
creator: Jesus Garcia
creator: Jill Rybar
creator: Linda Hill
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Daniel Ageze, Renee Dell'Acqua, Thomas D. Marcotte, Jesus Garcia, Jill Rybar, Linda Hill http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 72
ending page: 88

Abstracts from the 2025 Research Society on Marijuana and Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco Post- Conference Workshop March 15, 2025
type: item
subject: Conference Abstracts
  topic: section
creator: Jamie E. Parnes
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jamie E. Parnes http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 176
ending page: 187

Marketing Management and Policymaking for Medical Cannabis: Overcoming Barriers and Shaping Strategies
type: item
description: Objective: Medical cannabis has emerged as a promising therapeutic option, but its market acceptance faces significant regulatory, societal, and scientific challenges. This study explores pharmaceutical business managers’ perspectives on marketing strategies, brand architecture, and the value proposition of medical cannabis, aiming to identify approaches to overcome these barriers and guide policymaking. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 pharmaceutical managers to explore key challenges and strategies. Results: Key themes included the need for extensive scientific research, targeted communication to address stigma, effective marketing tactics, and long-term sustainability. Participants stressed the importance of rigorous, disease-specific research to establish medical cannabis’ therapeutic efficacy and build trust with healthcare providers and patients. Societal stigma was identified as a major barrier, with participants advocating for communication strategies that distinguish medical cannabis from recreational use and educate stakeholders. Marketing strategies focused on creating a unique value proposition, strong brand identity, and adaptive approaches to meet the diverse needs of healthcare professionals, regulators, and patients. Additionally, phased market entry strategies, beginning with pilot programs in regions with progressive regulatory environments, were recommended to pave the way for broader market expansion. Conclusions: This study offers valuable insights into the marketing management and policymaking necessary for integrating medical cannabis into the pharmaceutical market. By addressing regulatory uncertainties, societal stigma, and scientific gaps, pharmaceutical companies can unlock the full potential of medical cannabis as a credible therapeutic product. These findings lay the groundwork for future research and policymaking to promote sustainable growth in the emerging medical cannabis market.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Christos Ntais
creator: Nikolaos Kontodimopoulos
creator: Yioula Melanthiou
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Christos Ntais, Nikolaos Kontodimopoulos, Yioula Melanthiou http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 129
ending page: 140

Cannabis Products and Use Patterns Associated with Cannabis Use Disorder Symptoms Among Youth in Southern California
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis use is common among adolescents. Limited research has examined how specific cannabis use behaviors may differentially increase cannabis use disorder (CUD) risk. Method: Data were from two waves of a prospective cohort of Southern California adolescents who used cannabis in the past six months (N = 420; Fall 2022, Spring 2023). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association of each cannabis use behavior at baseline (number of modes of cannabis administration used, product type used first and most often, cannabinoid formulation used most often, past 30-day frequency, quantity) with probable CUD at a six-month follow-up (measured using the Cannabis Abuse Screening Test), adjusting for sociodemographic factors, other substance use, and probable CUD at baseline. Results: Most adolescents (69.8%) used >1 mode of cannabis in the past six-months; concentrates (vaped or dabbed) were the product type used most often (37.5%). Greater odds of CUD were observed for each additional cannabis product used in the past 6 months (vs. only one; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] range = 2.83-4.13; ps < .05), and for frequent past 30-day cannabis use (10+ days/month vs. 1-2 days/month; AOR = 2.87, 95%CI = [1.31,6.27]). No other cannabis behaviors or characteristics were associated with CUD in adjusted models. Conclusions: Frequent past-month cannabis use and using multiple modes of administration were predictors of probable CUD. In addition to monitoring the overall presence of adolescent cannabis use, these results demonstrate the importance of raising awareness about specific use behaviors associated with CUD risk among youth, particularly in regions with well-developed cannabis markets.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Claire A. Walsh
creator: Nikki Jafarzadeh
creator: Reid C. Whaley
creator: Dae-Hee Han
creator: Adam Leventhal
creator: Eric R. Pedersen
creator: Jessica Barrington-Trimis
creator: Alyssa F. Harlow
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Claire A. Walsh, Nikki Jafarzadeh, Reid Whaley, Dae-Hee Han, Adam Leventhal, Eric Pedersen, Jessica Barrington-Trimis, Alyssa Harlow http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 89
ending page: 102

Cannabis Use for Medical or Non-Medical Purposes in a Sample of Young Adult Cancer Survivors in the United States
type: item
description: Objective. This study examined cannabis use and motives (i.e., medical, non-medical [‘recreational’]) for first use and current use among young adult cancer survivors (ages 18-39). Methods. We analyzed 2024 baseline survey data from 155 young adult cancer survivors (Mage=32.89 [SD=4.89], 87.7% female, 81.9% White, M=1.34 [SD=1.04] years post-treatment) regarding cannabis use, use motives (i.e., medical, non-medical), use characteristics (e.g., frequency/mode), and quality of life (PROMIS). Analyses characterized participants by lifetime use, past-month use, and first use for medical or non-medical purposes; multivariable binary logistic regression assessed correlates of past-month cannabis use among all participants and among those reporting lifetime use, respectively. Objective: This study examined cannabis use and motives (i.e., medical, non-medical [‘recreational’]) for first use and current use among young adult cancer survivors (ages 18-39). Method: We analyzed 2024 baseline survey data from 155 young adult cancer survivors (Mage = 32.89 [SD = 4.89], 87.7% female, 81.9% White, M = 1.34 [SD = 1.04] years post-treatment) regarding cannabis use, use motives (i.e., medical, non-medical), use characteristics (e.g., frequency/mode), and quality of life (PROMIS). Analyses characterized participants by lifetime use, past-month use, and first use for medical or non-medical purposes; multivariable binary logistic regression assessed correlates of past-month cannabis use among all participants and among those reporting lifetime use, respectively. Results: Of those reporting lifetime use (n = 68, 43.9%), 48 (70.6%) first used for non-medical purposes and 18 (26.5%) for medical. Among those reporting past-month use (n = 41, 26.5%), 4 (9.8%) used for only medical purposes, 12 (29.3%) primarily medical but some non-medical, 6 (14.6%) equally medical/non-medical, 6 (14.6%) primarily non-medical but some medical, and 4 (9.8%) only non-medical. Common reasons for first a…
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Darcey M. McCready
creator: Laura C. Schubel
creator: Hannah Arem
creator: Cassidy R. LoParco
creator: Afrah Howlader
creator: Sheena Shajan
creator: Palash Bhanot
creator: Carla Berg
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Darcey M. McCready, Laura C. Schubel, Hannah Arem, Cassidy R. LoParco, Afrah Howlader, Sheena Shajan, Palash Bhanot, Carla Berg http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 26
ending page: 37

Developing a Mock Retail Cannabis Shop for Research: A Description of The CANNEX
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis retail dispensaries have proliferated in the United States in recent years, making it an important time for conducting research. Research is needed to learn more about consumer purchasing behaviors, including the impact of product marketing both inside and outside of retail spaces, and studies are needed to explore how both consumers and retail staff interpret the health benefits and potential risks associated with cannabis products within these environments. Current research on cannabis dispensaries often involves surveys or interviews with customers and dispensary staff outside of dispensary environments, but much can be learned through observational and experimental methods within dispensaries themselves. However, researchers have traditionally relied on surveillance methods, where researchers visit dispensaries to gain a deeper understanding of real-world encounters in these environments. Although these methods provide helpful insights into purchasing and selling behavior, as well as regulatory compliance, these studies are conducted in an uncontrolled environment, as products, messaging, and interactions are specific to the dispensaries in which the research is conducted. Method: We therefore created a mock cannabis dispensary to offer participants a retail experience that can be controlled and manipulated (e.g., adjustable cannabis product prices, placement of health and risk information in the dispensary, scripted interactions with dispensary staff) to help balance ecological and internal validity and answer questions about purchasing and selling behavior beyond what current methods allow. Results: We describe the process of developing and stocking the first known mock cannabis dispensary for research purposes, the Cannabis Annex (“The CANNEXâ€), including interior design, product selection, feedback solicitation from 20 cannabis industry workers, and plans for future research studies within the environment. Conclusions: By describing ou…
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Eric R. Pedersen
creator: Mark A. Prince
creator: Ireland M. Shute
creator: Megan E. Brown
creator: Bethany Gray
creator: Keegan D. Buch
creator: John Monterosso
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Eric Pedersen, Mark A. Prince, Ireland M. Shute, Megan E. Brown, Bethany Gray, Keegan D. Buch, John Monterosso http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 51
ending page: 66

Same Story, Different Seller: Teaching the Public How Cannabis Models Driven by Profit Create the Same Injustices as Prohibition
type: item
description: Objective: U.S. cannabis policy has been shaped by racism and produced racist outcomes. The legalization of cannabis for adult use represents an opportunity to end harmful policies and repair some of the damage caused by the War on Drugs. However, this opportunity may be slipping away. Large corporations with histories of exploitation are steering cannabis policy to maximize profits. Parabola Center for Law and Policy created a media campaign to educate the public about these issues and promote cannabis policies that benefit regular people. We conducted an experiment in the context of an online survey to determine whether six videos from the campaign would resonate with U.S. adults and influence beliefs about cannabis policy. Method: In September 2023, we conducted an online survey of 404 U.S. adults. Participants were randomized to view six Parabola Campaign videos featuring cannabis policy experts before or after responding to survey questions. Results: Participants who saw the Parabola Campaign videos had greater agreement that cannabis legalization should not benefit the tobacco industry, the pharmaceutical industry, and alcohol companies (all p < .05). They also had greater agreement that legalization should create space for small businesses, create a sharing community, and benefit people from communities that have been harmed by the Drug War (all p < .05). Â Conclusions: Public education can be a powerful tool to promote equity-focused cannabis policy, by raising awareness of corporate influence, promoting community-centered regulatory models, and building support for an equitable approach to federal legalization.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Jane Appleyard Allen
creator: Shaleen Title
creator: Brian Bradfield
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jane Appleyard Allen, Shaleen Title, Brian Bradfield http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-11-03
publication date: 2025-11-03
starting page: 9
ending page: 25

Cannabis Use and Perceptions of Cannabis Safety, Effectiveness, and Stigma amongst older Canadians: A Cross-Sectional Survey
type: item
description: Objective: Since legalization in 2018, older Canadians’ use of cannabis has increased steadily, yet little is known about their perceptions of cannabis. We aimed to determine cannabis usage, and characterize perceptions of safety, effectiveness and stigma in community dwelling older Canadians. Method: Canadians aged 50 years and older were invited to participate in an electronic survey of their experience with cannabis and perceptions of cannabis safety, effectiveness, and stigma. Data were categorized as participants reporting current use, non-use, prior use, and considering use. Perceptions were assessed with a 5-point Likert scale and open text box questions. Logistic regression models were used to assess how age, sex, cannabis usage, and education influenced perceptions. Results: One thousand six hundred fifteen participants completed the survey. Current cannabis use was reported by 44% of respondents, followed by non-use (33.2%), prior use (16.5%) and considering use (6.1%). Almost half (49.2%) perceived the risks of using cannabis to be low or very low. The greatest concerns regarding cannabis use were effects on cognition/mental health (40.8%), physical health (19.1%), and available product information (18.0%). Participants somewhat or strongly agreed that there is not enough information on cannabis safety (60.4%) and effectiveness (63.8%), and 34.7% perceived there to be a negative stigma amongst family and friends. Cannabis perceptions were influenced by age, sex, cannabis usage, and education. Conclusions:Generational and sex-based differences exist in cannabis usage and perceptions amongst older Canadians. These differences require consideration by health practitioners and public health workers to meet the educational needs of older adults.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Jennifer Bolt
creator: Jacob Movold
creator: Melanie Fenton
creator: Megan Behm
creator: Jill Williamson
creator: Jennifer M. Jakobi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jennifer Bolt, Jacob Movold, Melanie Fenton, Megan Behm, Jill Williamson, Jennifer M. Jakobi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 1
ending page: 17

Cannabis Use Characteristics and Reasons for Product Choices Among Patients Accessing Treatment for Substance Use Disorders: A Mixed-Methods Study
type: item
description: Objective: The diversity and potency of cannabis products have increased in recent years, underscoring the importance of understanding which products are being used and why. Patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) use have a high prevalence of risky cannabis use, making it especially important to understand use patterns in this group. We aimed to first describe cannabis product characteristics and then explore reasons for choosing products in our sample. Method: In this mixed-methods study, 472 adults who self-reported accessing SUD treatment and lifetime cannabis use completed an online survey. A subset of 22 participants completed in-depth interviews. Quantitative results focused on describing cannabis use characteristics (e.g., product types) among participants reporting past-year cannabis use (current use group) or lifetime cannabis use but no use in past year (past use group), while qualitative descriptive analysis was used to describe reasons for choosing products among participants who were currently using cannabis. Results: Â Across medical and non-medical use of cannabis, dried flower and smoked cannabis formulations were most used (e.g., 89% of the current use group reported smoking cannabis for non-medical purposes), followed by edibles (e.g., 53% of the current use group used edible formulations of cannabis for non-medical purposes), though there was considerable use of higher-potency products such as concentrates and dabs (e.g., 11% of the current use group had used dabs for non-medical purposes). Our qualitative analysis found that almost all participants were motivated by THC content when purchasing products, yet sometimes perceived medical benefits or harm reduction were reasons for using certain products (especially CBD-dominant products), while sometimes other factors (e.g., convenience, familiarity) were influential. Conclusions: Cannabis use characteristics (including motives for choosing products) are complex and nuanced in patients access…
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Justin Matheson
creator: Harseerat Saini
creator: Rebecca Haines-Saah
creator: Marcos Sanches
creator: Matthew E. Sloan
creator: Adam Zaweel
creator: Ahmed Hassan
creator: Leslie Buckley
creator: Amy Porath
creator: James MacKillop
creator: Christian S. Hendershot
creator: Stefan Kloiber
creator: Bernard Le Foll
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Justin Matheson, Harseerat Saini, Rebecca Haines-Saah, Marcos Sanches, Matthew Sloan, Adam Zaweel, Ahmed Hassan, Leslie Buckley, Amy Porath, James MacKillop, Christian Hendershot, Stefan Kloiber, Bernard Le Foll http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 67
ending page: 84

Cannabis Use Patterns and Co-Use of Alcohol and Nicotine in Adults Over 50 by Demographic Factors and Medical Cannabis Use
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis use among adults over age 50 is increasing, but data on specific products, co-use, and cannabis-related problems in this age group are lacking. The current study assessed differences in cannabis use patterns and alcohol and nicotine co-use by select demographic factors and medical cannabis status, as well as associations with problem cannabis use, among adults over 50. Method: Adults over age 50 who used cannabis use in the past 30 days were recruited from a healthcare system and invited to complete an online survey. Results: Participants (N = 367) were 43% female, with an average age of 65.9 (SD = 8.6), and predominantly White (67.9%), Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (NHPI; 12.3%), or Asian (9.3%). Mean frequency of cannabis use within the past 30 days was 18.7 days (SD = 11.5), and 27% reported use of non-medical cannabis-only. Co-use of cannabis with other substances was common, especially alcohol. Although group comparisons showed several differences by age, sex, and medical cannabis status, greater differences were found by race/ethnicity. White participants were more likely than others to have a state medical cannabis card, source their cannabis solely from medical dispensaries, and report alcohol co-use. NHPI participants were most likely to smoke cannabis and use tobacco. Smoking, as compared to consuming edibles and “otherâ€ methods, and greater cannabis frequency, were associated with problem cannabis use. Conclusions: Findings illustrate patterns of cannabis and other substance use, with important demographic differences. Future research among older adults should include development of targeted interventions to address cannabis use problems and polysubstance use.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Kristina T. Phillips
creator: Kathryn L. Pedula
creator: Kara Tsuzaki
creator: Catherine Erickson
creator: Jonathan Lai
creator: Vanessa Simiola
creator: Samantha Wong
creator: Pallav Pokhrel
creator: Derek D. Satre
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Kristina T. Phillips, Kathy Pedula, Kara Tsuzaki, Catherine Erickson, Jonathan Lai, Vanessa Simiola, Samantha Wong, Pallav Pokhrel, Derek D. Satre http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 112
ending page: 128

Budtender Perceptions and Knowledge of Cannabis and Mental Health: A Preliminary Study
type: item
description: Objective: Legal cannabis dispensary employees (“Budtendersâ€) are a significant resource for cannabis users. Current research indicates that cannabis use may adversely impact mental health. Public perception, however, is often inconsistent with this evidence, leading to increased use and disproportionate harm towards individuals with mental health disorders. This underscores the need for a deeper understanding of how Budtenders may influence these perceptions. This preliminary cross-sectional survey assessed Budtender perceptions and knowledge of cannabis use and its implications for mental health. Method: Researchers recruited Budtenders (N = 46) from legal cannabis dispensaries (Ontario Cannabis Stores) across the Greater Toronto (Canada) Area to participate in a 15-minute online survey. The survey collected non-identifying demographic data and responses about perceptions, education and customer interactions surrounding cannabis and mental health. Results: We found that Budtender perceptions (N = 46) of cannabis’ influence on mental health vary significantly based on symptomatology assessed, and often diverge from evidence-based knowledge. Notably, 54.6% of Budtenders rated cannabis as having a beneficial effect across the outcomes assessed, with sleep and depression most frequently perceived as beneficial. Customers inquired about the mental health effects of cannabis at 21% of cannabis store visits. There was considerable variability in the sources from which Budtenders derived their knowledge. Conclusions: This study underscores significant gaps between Budtender perceptions and scientific evidence regarding cannabis use and mental health. Determining the impact of these perceptions is crucial for developing targeted, evidence-based educational interventions to mitigate the risks associated with recreational cannabis use.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Darby J. E. Lowe
creator: Cindy Wang
creator: Sergio Rueda
creator: Tony P. George
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Darby J. E. Lowe, Cindy Wang, Sergio Rueda, Tony P. George http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 164
ending page: 176

Special Section Editor: Abstracts from the 2024 Scientific Meeting of the Research Society on Marijuana July 19th -21st, 2024
type: item
subject: Conference Abstracts
  topic: section
creator: Lauren Micalizzi, Ph.D.
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Ireland Shute http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-07
publication date: 2025-01-07
starting page: 177
ending page: 311

Temporal Trends in Young Adult Cannabis and Tobacco Use in States with Different Cannabis Policies
type: item
description: Objective: Cannabis legalization may impact both cannabis and tobacco use, given the high prevalence of co-use (including blunt use) among young adults (YAs) in the United States. The objective of this descriptive ecological study was to examine trends in YA cannabis and tobacco use from 2002-2018 in states that passed adult and medical use (AMU) or medical use only (MUO) cannabis laws during that time (N = 16). Method: Using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, we conducted a segmented regression analysis to calculate absolute percent change in past 30-day cannabis, blunt, cigarette, and cigar use between time points. We descriptively compared points of slope inflection with key legalization dates. Results: All states showed a decline in YA cigarette smoking over time, a slight decline in cigar smoking, and increases in cannabis and blunt use. Cannabis use increased following opening of MUO retail outlets and, in several states, increased following adult use law implementation and/or opening of retail outlets. For example, in Maine, cannabis use plateaued after a MUO law was adopted (2009) until about 1-2 years after retail outlets opened (2011), when YA cannabis use increased by 22.4% (95% CI: 19.0, 29.4) and continued increasing steadily after adult use was adopted (2017). Conclusions: Cannabis and blunt use increased more in states where AMU laws were in place compared to those with MUO laws, though causality was not assessed. Varying trends may correlate with cannabis policies, tobacco policies and other political, economic, or social factors at the state level.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Allison M. Glasser
creator: Caitlin Uriarte
creator: Jessica King Jensen
creator: Kymberle Sterling
creator: Ce Shang
creator: David Hammond
creator: Andrea C. Villanti
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Allison M. Glasser, Caitlin Uriarte, Jessica King Jensen, Kymberle Sterling, Ce Shang, David Hammond, Andrea C. Villanti http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 98
ending page: 111

Estimating Cannabis Consumption in Milligrams of THC From Self-Reported Hit Size
type: item
description: Objective: Estimating delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (mgTHC) using hits involves converting hits to grams via a grams-per-hit ratio (GPHR). Previous studies assumed a single hit size (SHS), ignoring individual hit size variations. This study investigates a multiple qualitative hit size (MQHS) approach based on self-reported hit sizes (small, medium, large) to improve mgTHC estimates. Method: Adults (N = 1,824) who used cannabis in the past week completed an online survey on cannabis consumption, reporting quantities in hits and grams, and estimating their hit sizes. We calculated mgTHC using both SHS (0.06g/hit for flower, 0.012g/hit for concentrate) and MQHS. For the MQHS approach, we calculated median GPHRs for each hit size group and assigned those medians to individuals within that group. Results: For flower, median GPHR increased with hit size (small: 0.042, medium: 0.062, large: 0.093). The MQHS estimate for mgTHC from flower was higher than SHS for large hits (95% CI:[12.4, 50.0]) but showed no difference for medium or small hits (95% CI: [-3.2, 8.1]; 95%CI: [-27.6, 3.4]). For concentrate, median GPHR was similar for small and medium hits but lower than large hits (small: 0.024, medium: 0.025, large: 0.035). MQHS estimates for mgTHC were higher than SHS for all hit sizes (95% CI: [46.3, 86.3]; 95% CI: [24.8, 45.5]; 95% CI: [11.5, 36.5] for large, medium, small hits, respectively). Conclusions: The MQHS estimates captures hit size variability for flower. The floor effect with median GPHRs for concentrates suggests further investigation is needed for MQHS estimates with concentrates. The MQHS approach illustrates a method to develop new standard GPHRs for each qualitative hit size group, after further investigation.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Mohammad I. Habib
creator: Alan J. Budney
creator: Cara A. Struble
creator: Deborah S. Hasin
creator: Ofir Livne
creator: Efrat Aharonovich
creator: Caroline Wisell
creator: Sara N. Fragione
creator: Jacob T. Borodovsky
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Habib, Alan Budney, Cara Struble, Deborah Hasin, Ofir Livne, Efrat Aharonovich, Caroline Wisell, Sara Fragione, Jacob Borodovsky http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 153
ending page: 163

What Are Tolerance Breaks and Why Do Young Adults Take Them? A Qualitative Investigation of Temporary Abstinence Breaks from Cannabis
type: item
description: Objective: This study investigated young adults’ (YAs) experiences with tolerance breaks (temporary abstinence from cannabis; T-breaks). Method: In Study 1, 15 YAs who used cannabis completed a qualitative interview. In Study 2, 66 YAs who used cannabis at least 2x/week completed online survey items assessing T-break familiarity, definitions, motivations, and experiences. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. Results: In Study 1, five themes were identified: (1) time frames for T-breaks were variable but brief and temporary, (2) T-breaks were motivated by tolerance reduction (3) and other motives, (4) withdrawal is an early barrier; positive outcomes occurred with longer breaks, (5) some YAs viewed T-breaks as unnecessary/unachievable. Study 2 findings demonstrated that YAs were familiar with T-breaks and most had attempted a T-break in the past year; greater variability in T-break motivations was apparent in Study 2. Conclusions: Results suggest that YAs define T-breaks as an intentional and temporary period of abstinence from cannabis, regardless of motivation.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Katherine Walukevich-Dienst
creator: Ella G. DeVries
creator: Thomas J. K. Fontana
creator: Jessica A. Blayney
creator: Jason R. Kilmer
creator: Scott Graupensperger
creator: Christine M. Lee
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Katherine Walukevich-Dienst, Ella G. DeVries, Thomas J. K. Fontana, Jessica A. Blayney, Jason R. Kilmer, Scott Graupensperger, Christine M. Lee http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-31
publication date: 2025-01-31
starting page: 150
ending page: 164

Missouri College Students' Intentions Towards Initiating or Changing Cannabis Use in a Shifting Legal Landscape
type: item
description: Background: With cannabis legal in nearly half of U.S. states, important concerns about the public health impact remain, particularly for states yet to legalize. The present study, using data collected in the initial phase of cannabis legalization in Missouri, examined predictors of the intention to initiate (in the cannabis naïve) and increase use (in those with past-year use) in a representative sample of Missouri college students. Methods: Data (ncannabisnaïve = 2,716; ncannabisuse = 1,591) were collected from 25 Missouri college campuses. Four pre-registered multilevel models examined the associations of theory-driven predictors with the intention to initiate cannabis use and to increase use. Results: 33.4% of all students surveyed reported past-year cannabis use, 9.9% of cannabis naïve students reported intending to initiate cannabis use, and 22% of those with previous cannabis use reported intending to increase cannabis use. Multilevel modes found that being gay or lesbian (AOR = 3.03; CI = [1.72, 5.34]), bisexual (AOR= 3.52; CI = [2.41, 5.14]), or queer (AOR = 2.51; CI = [1.71, 3.69]) was associated with intending to initiate use, while greater flourishing (AOR = 0.98; CIÂ = [0.96, 0.99]) was associated with decreased odds of intending to initiate use. Endorsing more cannabis motives (AOR = 1.13; CI = [1.08, 1.19]), age of first use (AOR = 1.09; CI = [1.03, 1.15]), and being gay or lesbian (AOR = 2.19; CI = [1.27, 3.76]) were associated with intending to increase use. Endorsing more cannabis-related negative consequences was associated with intending to decrease use (AOR = 0.91; CI = [0.89, 0.94]). Discussion: Multiple theory-driven factors were associated with intending to initiate or increase cannabis use following legalization. Future research should examine how intentions to change cannabis use translate to actualized behavior following legalization and factors that may create increased risk for minoritized sexual identities.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Ian A. McNamara
creator: Jamie E. Parnes
creator: Khrystyna Stetsiv
creator: Melissa Nance
creator: Jake Sauer
creator: Kayleigh Greenwood
creator: Joan P. Masters
creator: Ryan W. Carpenter
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ian A. McNamara, Jamie E. Parnes, Khrystyna Stetsiv, Melissa Nance, Jake Sauer, Kayleigh Greenwood, Joan P. Masters, Ryan W. Carpenter http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 33
ending page: 50

https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/287
type: item
title: Are Changes in Negative Cannabis Expectancies, Peer Approval, and Perceptions of Dangerousness of Driving After Cannabis Use Associated with Changes in Instances of Driving After Cannabis Use Following a Mobile-Phone Based Intervention?
description: Objective: Driving after cannabis use (DACU) has become an increasing public health concern nationwide. Although previous research has linked perceived peer approval, perceptions of dangerousness, and negative effect expectancies to DACU, no previous work has examined whether these constructs can be successfully targeted in an intervention or whether changes in these variables lead to changes in DACU. The present study is a secondary data analysis to investigate within-subject change and potential mechanisms of change in a pilot trial for a mobile phone-based intervention shown to significantly reduce DACU over time. Method: Participants were 66 emerging adults who completed the mobile-based intervention and provided 3-month follow-up data. Participants completed measures that assessed rates of DACU, negative cannabis expectancies, perceptions of dangerousness, and perceived peer-approval. Results: Results indicated that negative effect expectancies significantly increased from baseline to three-month follow-up, while perceived peer approval for DACU significantly decreased from baseline to three-month follow-up. Though significant within-subject change was found for all variables of interest, none of the variables of interest significantly mediated changes in instances of DACU over time. The results of the current study suggest that key variables associated with DACU-perceived peer approval and negative cannabis expectancies can be successfully targeted in a mobile-based brief intervention. Conclusions: Continued research investigating moderators and mediators of intervention outcomes is warranted. Â
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Sarah N. Elder
creator: Jenni B. Teeters
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sarah N. Elder, Jenni B. Teeters http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-31
publication date: 2025-01-31
starting page: 165
ending page: 176

Measuring the Association Between Cannabis Dispensary Density and Adult Consumption in a Statewide Setting: Does Urbanicity Matter?
type: item
description: Objective: This study used data from early stages of non-medical cannabis legalization in Washington State to 1) Compare cannabis dispensary density measures by urbanicity, 2) Test if dispensary density was associated with cannabis use overall and by urbanicity. Method: Data are from the Privatization of Spirits in Washington Surveys (n = 2,162 adults) and licensing records. We graphed six cannabis dispensary density measures by urbanicity. Logistic regressions tested if dispensary density was associated with 1) cannabis use at least bimonthly and 2) daily/near-daily cannabis use after adjusting for urbanicity. Regressions stratified by urbanicity determined whether associations differed in urban vs. suburban/rural areas. Results: Crude counts and counts per population were higher in suburban/rural areas. Counts per land area, counts in a 3- to 5-mile buffer, proximity, and clustering detected greater densities in urban areas. Monthly/bimonthly cannabis use was associated with counts per buffer in the full sample (aOR = 1.08 [1.02, 1.14]) and urban areas (aOR = 1.08 [1.02, 1.14]). Clustering was associated with monthly/bimonthly use in suburban/rural areas (aOR = 7.85 [1.31, 47.17]). Daily/near-daily use was associated with proximity and clustering in the full sample (proximity: aOR = 0.78 [0.64, 0.97]; clustering: aOR = 2.44 [1.32, 4.51]), urban areas (proximity: aOR = 0.67 [0.49, 0.92]; clustering: aOR = 2.29 [1.22, 4.32]), and suburban/rural areas (proximity: aOR = 0.66 [0.45, 0.97]; clustering: aOR = 11.10 [1.55, 79.36]). Conclusions: In Washington’s early non-medical cannabis market, dispensary availability (counts) was associated with monthly/bimonthly use. Accessibility (proximity) and clustering were associated with daily/near-daily use. Dispensary density thresholds and minimum distances between dispensaries may reduce regular and frequent cannabis use in Washington.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Pamela J. Trangenstein
creator: Thomas K. Greenfield
creator: Deidre M. Patterson
creator: William C. Kerr
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Pamela J. Trangenstein, Thomas K. Greenfield, Deidre M. Patterson, William C. Kerr http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 18
ending page: 32

Acute Stress Effect on Delay Discounting and Cannabis Demand Among Individuals Endorsing High-Frequency Cannabis Use
type: item
description: Objective: Limited research examines the effect of stress on behavioral economic constructs among individuals using cannabis. This study examined whether the effects of acute stress on delay discounting differed in terms of cannabis use status and whether cannabis demand changed after stress induction. Method: Participants were two groups (n = 39 endorsing high-frequency cannabis use and n = 48 not endorsing cannabis use) of young adults (75.86% female, 67.82% White, Mage = 21.64 years). During an online Zoom session, participants completed a prestress assessment, the Trier Mental Challenge Test (TMCT) stress induction, and then a poststress assessment. Results: Subjective stress increased significantly across groups after stress induction (p < .001, ƞp2 = .23); no group X time interaction was observed. There were no differences in delay discounting across time or groups. For the use group only, cannabis demand intensity (p = .006, d = .50), but not other demand indices, significantly increased following the acute stress induction. Coping motives did not moderate the association between the change in subjective stress and the change in delay discounting or the change in any cannabis demand indices among the use group. Conclusions: Cannabis demand might exert a more influential role than delay discounting in shaping decisions related to cannabis use while experiencing acute stress. However, the practical implications of this finding warrant further research due to the relatively small difference in hypothetical cannabis use observed. Study design limitations that could impact the findings or lead to null results are discussed to inform future research.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Yi-Chun Chang
creator: Robin Rubey
creator: Benjamin Ladd
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Yi-Chun Chang, Robin L. Rubey, Benjamin O. Ladd http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-31
publication date: 2025-01-31
starting page: 21
ending page: 39

Legal Recreational Cannabis Sales and Opioid-Related Mortality in the 5 Years Following Cannabis Legalization in Canada: A Granger Causality Analysis
type: item
description: Objective: Little is known about the population-level impact of recreational cannabis legalization on trends in opioid-related mortality. Increased access to cannabis due to legalization has been hypothesized to reduce opioid-related deaths because of the potential opioid-sparing effects of cannabis. The objective of this study was to examine the relations between national retail sales of recreational (non-medical) cannabis and opioid overdose deaths in the 5 years following legalization in Canada. Method: Using time-series data, we applied Granger causality methods to evaluate the association between trends in legal recreational cannabis sales and opioid-related deaths over time. Both sales and opioid deaths grew over time, with the latter exhibiting significant increases following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: We found no support for the hypothesis that increasing post-legalization sales Granger caused changes in opioid-related deaths in British Columbia, Ontario, or at the national level. Conclusions: These findings suggest that increases in legal recreational cannabis sales following legalization were not meaningfully associated with changes in opioid-related mortality. Further examination with longer follow-up periods will be needed as the legal cannabis market becomes more entrenched in Canada, but these findings converge with previous work suggesting legalization is not related to opioid overdose mortality and further undermine that hypothesized link as a basis for legalization in other jurisdictions.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: André J. McDonald
creator: Alysha Cooper
creator: Amanda Doggett
creator: Kyla Belisario
creator: James MacKillop
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 André J. McDonald, Alysha Cooper, Amanda Doggett, Kyla Belisario, James MacKillop http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-16
publication date: 2025-01-16
starting page: 106
ending page: 119

Predictors of Response to Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain: A Retrospective Review of Real-Time Observational Data
type: item
description: Objective: People living with chronic pain increasingly use medical cannabis for symptom relief. We conducted a retrospective cohort study examining cannabis for chronic pain relief using anonymous archival data obtained from the medicinal cannabis tracking app, Strainprint®. Method: We acquired cannabis utilization data from 741 adults with chronic pain and used multilevel modeling to examine the association of age, sex, type of pain (muscle, joint or nerve pain), cannabis formulation (high CBD, balanced CBD:THC, or high THC), route of administration (inhaled or ingested), cannabis use before vs. during the COVID-19 pandemic, and duration of cannabis use, with pain relief. Results: Most patients were female (n = 464; 63%), with a mean age of 39 (SD = 11), and our cohort had completed a total of 83,622 tracked cannabis sessions through Strainprint. The majority of sessions reported use of inhaled cannabis products (78%), typically with high tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 64%) versus high cannabidiol (CBD; 15%) or balanced THC:CBD (21%) products. The median change in pain scores across sessions was -3.0 points on a 10-point numeric rating scale (NRS; IQR -4.5 to -2.0). In our adjusted model, greater pain relief was associated with male vs. female sex (-0.69 points on a 10-point NRS; 95%CI -0.46 to -0.91). We found statistically significant, but trivial associations with joint pain (-0.05 points), balanced THC:CBD products in the long term (-0.003 points), and cannabis use during the pandemic (0.18 points). Conclusions: We found that people living with chronic pain report important pain relief when using cannabis for medical purposes, and that men may achieve greater pain relief than women.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Aidan Giangregorio
creator: Li Wang
creator: Sheila Sprague
creator: Michelle Arbus
creator: Jason Busse
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Aidan Giangregorio , Li Wang, Sheila Sprague, Michelle Arbus, Jason Busse http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-01-16
publication date: 2025-01-16
starting page: 167
ending page: 176

https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/277
type: item
title: Daily Assessment of Positive and Negative Cannabis Use Expectancies in Young Adult Cannabis and Tobacco Co-Users: Differences by Sociodemographics, Mental Health Symptoms, and Possible Cannabis Use Disorder
description: Objective: Expectancies play a critical role in cannabis use behavior and are influenced by sociodemographic and intrapersonal factors. This study examined daily endorsement of positive and negative cannabis use expectancies using 28 days of ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) in relation to sociodemographics, mental health symptoms, and cannabis use disorder (CUD) among young adult cannabis-tobacco co-users. Method: Ninety-seven young adult (ages 18-24) cannabis and tobacco co-users reported on anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and possible CUD at baseline. During the 28 days of EMAs, participants reported on 16 positive (n = 7) and negative (n = 9) cannabis use expectancies they anticipated would occur in the next 24 hours. Descriptive statistics examined the proportion of EMA days each expectancy was endorsed. Multivariable logistic regressions examined associations of expectancies with anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and possible CUD, controlling for sociodemographics. Results: The most frequently endorsed expectancies were positive (e.g., feeling good, getting along with others), while the least frequently endorsed were negative (e.g., drinking too much, having an argument). In regression models, participants endorsing more days of expecting to feel anxious displayed higher odds of anxiety and depressive symptoms; those endorsing more days of expecting to be in a bad mood displayed higher odds of depressive symptoms; those endorsing more days of expecting to feel tired or unmotivated displayed higher odds of possible CUD. Conclusions: Expectancies of cannabis benefits and consequences are heterogeneous, endorsed in different frequencies across days, and they may have important implications for mental health symptoms and cannabis use severity among young adults who co-use.
subject: Original Report
  topic: section
creator: Katelyn F. Romm
creator: Robin Mermelstein
creator: Ryan Vandrey
creator: Donald Hedeker
creator: Amy M. Cohn
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Katelyn F. Romm, Robin Mermelstein, Ryan Vandrey, Donald Hedeker, Amy M. Cohn http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
date: 2025-07-14
publication date: 2025-07-14
starting page: 85
ending page: 97