IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD –
Dec. 13, 2025 – High hopes for medical cannabis are going up in smoke. “While many people turn to cannabis seeking relief, our review highlights significant gaps between public perception and scientific evidence regarding its effectiveness for most medical conditions.” Long-term studies suggest that adolescents using high-potency cannabis face higher rates of psychotic symptoms, with 12.4% affected compared with 7.1% of those using low-potency products. They were also more likely to develop generalized anxiety disorder, with 19.1% experiencing it versus 11.6% of their peers using weaker cannabis.
Notably, the researchers found that about 29% of medical cannabis users also meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder.
This complex psychiatric condition typically involves a strong, compulsive urge to use cannabis, increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when use stops, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Cannabis use disorder primarily involves THC-containing products. The risk is higher for those who start using before age 18, who are four to seven times more likely to develop the dependence than adults. There is no evidence that medical cannabis can relieve acute pain.
They also urged physicians to consider potential drug interactions and weigh the possible harms against the benefits when deciding whether to prescribe medical cannabis.
“Clear guidance from clinicians is essential to support safe, evidence-based decision-making when discussing medical cannabis with their patients,” Hsu said.
The researchers acknowledged several limitations, noting that the study wasn’t a systematic review and didn’t include a formal risk-of-bias assessment.
