Leveraging user perspectives for insight into cannabis concentrates

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground: The US has seen an increase in the popularity of highly concentrated forms of cannabis (hereafter concentrates) and too little is known about the potential risks associated with their use.Objectives: The present study aims to better understand the patterns and outcomes of concentrates use through the perspectives of young adult users.Methods: Participants (N = 234, 27.9% female) aged 18–35 years were recruited using SurveyMonkey Audience® and had ingested concentrates at least once in the past 6 months. They were queried on concentrates use patterns (e.g., frequency, medical/recreational) and the effects experienced after using concentrates (e.g., physiological/psychological, strength/duration).Results: A total of 27.8% of participants reported frequent use of concentrates (≥10 days in past month). Those who used for medical purposes or lived in states where use is legal were more likely to use concentrates frequently. While most (64.2%) did not report experiencing potentially serious side effects, some reported a sense of altered reality/confusion (23.3%), rapid heartbeat (11.2%), lung pain (9.9%) and severe paranoia (6.9%). Among those who used concentrates in the past month (N = 168), 72.6% used concentrates with other cannabis forms, 57.7% used along with alcohol, and 22.6% used with other drugs.Conclusion: Continued research on concentrates use in the US is needed. Research-informed policies that foster safe and responsible use of concentrates are necessary to protect users, especially those who use concentrates frequently, from potential negative side effects.