Increase in people hospitalised with psychosis after prescribed cannabis
Doctors express concerns over increased psychosis hospitalizations linked to medicinal cannabis use. Calls for stricter regulations, especially for telehealth clinics and high-potency products. Emphasis on evidence-based treatments and limited THC products.
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Doctors are raising concerns about a significant increase in hospitalizations due to psychosis after patients were prescribed medicinal cannabis. The Royal Australian and New Zealand's College of Psychiatrists is advocating for stronger regulations on medicinal cannabis products and prescribing practices. Instances of psychosis related to medicinal cannabis have been reported, with some patients experiencing their first psychotic episode or relapsing. The rise of "single-issue" cannabis clinics prescribing via telehealth consultations without proper oversight is contributing to the issue. Additionally, hospital emergency departments are seeing cases of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, where patients vomit excessively due to high-potency cannabis products. While medicinal cannabis has legitimate uses for conditions like severe childhood epilepsy, concerns remain about its widespread prescription for unproven conditions like anxiety and insomnia. Calls have been made to regulate medicinal cannabis more strictly and restrict products containing THC, except for specific medical needs. The industry is urged to focus on evidence-based treatments and harm minimization strategies.
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