The novel study conducted by the Princess Mother National Institute on Drug Abuse Treatment (PMNIDAT) in Thailand has led to promising advances in understanding the efficacy of pharmacological treatments for cannabis-induced psychosis (CIP). With cannabis use becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, the revelation of these findings offers renewed hope for effective treatment and management of CIP.
Study Insights: Understanding the Impact of Pharmacological Treatments
The Study Participants and Methodology
The comprehensive retrospective chart review study involved 403 medical charts of patients diagnosed with CIP. The study primarily sought to explore the pharmacological treatment’s efficacy using the Brief Psychotic Rating Scale (BPRS) from admission and on a weekly basis thereafter.
Demographics and Cannabis Use
- The study featured mostly male participants with an average age of 21.
- All patients had a recorded history of smoked cannabis use derived from dried leaves and flowers.
- Presenting symptoms included psychosis, mood disturbances, sleep problems, significant weight loss, and cognitive impairments.
Treatment Regimens and Efficacy
Antipsychotic Treatments Predominate
An overwhelming 98.7% of patients were treated with antipsychotics, with risperidone being the most commonly prescribed. The mean dose of risperidone was 8.0 mg per day, effectively reducing psychotic symptoms as evidenced by significant BPRS improvement within 22 days of treatment.
Role of Combination Therapies
Combination therapies proved critical with a considerable percentage receiving balanced regimens of antipsychotics with benzodiazepines, antidepressants, or both to tackle extensive symptoms beyond psychosis.
Long-term Outcomes and Future Directions
Follow-up over 1.3 years post-treatment revealed that 7% of the study cohort eventually received a schizophrenia diagnosis. The study affirms that while antipsychotics are indispensable for managing CIP, alternative psychiatric medications are crucial in addressing co-occurring symptoms.
Conclusion: A New Paradigm in Handling CIP
This groundbreaking research delineates a decisive step forward in CIP treatment, underscoring the vital role of antipsychotics complemented by other medications as required. With continued investigations, these insights pave the way toward refined therapeutic strategies for cannabis-induced disorders.
For more detailed insights, refer to the original study.
