Non-medical Purposes Research Articles

Ethical considerations for the use of brain-computer interfaces for cognitive enhancement.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) enable direct communication between the brain and external computers, allowing processing of brain activity and the ability to control external devices. While often used for medical purposes, BCIs may also hold great promise for nonmedical purposes to unlock human neurocognitive potential. In this Essay, we discuss the prospects and challenges of using BCIs for cognitive enhancement, focusing specifically on invasive enhancement BCIs (eBCIs). We discuss the ethical, legal, and scientific implications of eBCIs, including issues related to privacy, autonomy, inequality, and the broader societal impact of cognitive enhancement technologies. We conclude that the development of eBCIs raises challenges far beyond practical pros and cons, prompting fundamental questions regarding the nature of conscious selfhood and about who-and what-we are, and ought, to be.

TAPS-tool reveals severe under detection of substance use problems in patients with severe mental illness.

Substance use disorders (SUD) and associated problems are highly prevalent but often undetected in patients with Severe Mental Illness (SMI). This study investigates the prevalence, under-detection, and variables associated with a high risk of SUD in a Dutch sample of adult outpatient SMI patients (N = 83). Substance use (The Tobacco, Alcohol, Prescription medication, and other Substance use -TAPS-tool), quality of life (Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life-MANSA), general functioning (Health of the Nation Outcome Scale-HoNOS), DSM-5 classifications and patient characteristics (age, education, marital status) were assessed. Detection of SUD was determined by calculating % agreement of DSM-5 classification to TAPS outcome. A logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association of patient characteristics, quality of life and general functioning to an increased risk of SUD as determined by the TAPS. Concerning prevalence, 89% of the patients used tobacco, above guideline-recommended daily limits of alcohol, illicit drugs or prescription medications for nonmedical purposes. Almost all smokers, half of the alcohol users and three-quarter of the patients that use marihuana or stimulant drugs had a high risk of SUD. All patients with high risk of SUD associated with alcohol, drugs or medications also had SUD associated with tobacco use. Concerning under detection less than half of the patients with a high risk of SUD according the TAPS had a SUD in their DSM-5 classification. Gender, partner, age and satisfaction about the relationship with family had a significant association with a high risk of SUD. Screening for addiction in an SMI sample with the TAPS-tool revealed a high prevalence of substance use and a high risk of SUD. TAPS outcomes compared to the clinically obtained DSM-5 classification revealed a high degree of under-detection of substance use problems. Smoking seems to pose a specific additional risk of addiction and deserves more attention in treatment to achieve greater health care benefits.

The characteristics of prevention of drug addiction and narcotism in municipal formation of city of Novorossiysk

The drug addiction is one of most serious deviant behavior seriously harming both addict person and one's relationship. The drug using is considered as deviant because means using substances from non-legal turn-over or applied in non-medical purposes. Then follows degradation of health of person and one's positioning into physical and mental dependence on them. With time, personal dependence on drugs becomes stronger. The addicted person looses possibility to experience joy from natural stimuli and more difficulties in controlling drug using appear. Persons using drugs frequently commit crimes to have money to maintain one's dependence. Therefore, issues of prevention narcotism and struggle with drug addiction are fundamental ones for whole system of prevention in Novorossiysk. The article presents analysis of implemented activities and adopted measures of struggle with drug addiction in population of Novorossiysk.

The hidden crisis: Volatile inhalant substance use disorders in adolescents from Cuttack’s urban slums: A case series

Abstract: Substance abuse has been defined as the use of chemical substances for nonmedical purposes to achieve alterations in psychological functioning. The substances commonly abused in India include nicotine, alcohol, cannabis, and opioids. However, the use of solvents and propellants is also on the rise as these are inexpensive, legally available household, industrial, office, and automobile products; which are more commonly available to children and adolescents. Organic solvents are cheap and relatively easy to obtain, so they carry the risk of becoming a “gateway drug” for users. We hereby describe three cases of volatile substance abuse in the slum areas of Cuttack who were reported in our medical college.

Toxicology findings from drivers suspected of drug-impaired driving in Ontario (2008–2019)

Objective This study examines the results of toxicological tests performed on blood and urine samples collected from suspected drug-impaired drivers in Ontario from 2008 to 2019. The report examines the results of toxicological analysis of the samples submitted, the characteristics of those drivers from whom samples were collected, and the temporal and situational circumstances that led to police investigations and sample collection to better understand drug-impaired driving behavior and to assist in the development and implementation of countermeasure strategies and programs. Methods Blood and urine samples were sent to the Center of Forensic Sciences where they were analyzed using standardized comprehensive toxicological analysis to test for a wide variety of potentially impairing drugs. Demographic and temporal information for each case from which a sample was collected were also examined to describe the circumstances and characteristics of these driving incidents. Results During the 12-year period examined, 5,388 samples collected from suspected drug-impaired drivers were analyzed. The number of samples collected increased substantially following the implementation of the Drug Evaluation and Classification Program (DECP) in July 2008, the enactment of legislation facilitating the collection of blood samples from suspects, and the legalization of cannabis for nonmedical purposes in 2018. The number of samples submitted shows temporal correlation with the number of police officers certified as Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) in the province. Over the 12-year period of this study, cannabis was the most frequently detected substance in drivers (52.8% of cases), followed by cocaine (44.3%) and methamphetamine (24.8%). In 80% of cases, more than one substance was detected. Conclusions Examining the characteristics of suspected drug-impaired drivers, the temporal circumstances, and the drug findings throughout the large geographic area of Ontario and over the extended period of this study enhances our understanding of drug-impaired driving behavior. These characteristics can assist in the development and/or evaluation of enforcement strategies and enhanced countermeasure activities.

Predictors, motives, sources and patterns of nonmedical use of prescription drugs among youths in Buea, Southwest region of Cameroon: A mixed method analysis

BackgroundThe non-medical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD) is an emerging phenomenon of serious public health concern among young people globally. This study seeks to determine the predictors, motives, sources, patterns of use of NMUPD among youths in the Buea Health District of the South west region. Materials and MethodsA mixed-method community-based, cross-sectional study conducted from May to June 2018, enrolled participants aged 15 - 29 years from schools and community. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to capture data and focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed with SPSS version 24 and ATLAS.ti version 7 respectively. Logic regression analysis were carried at 5 % significance level. ResultsThe study enrolled 464 participants (median age of 21 years, IQR: 18 – 23.8 years) into the quantitative study, 63 % were females. Forty-nine participants were enrolled for the qualitative study. A total of 90 (19.6 %; CI: 15.9 – 23.3 %) participants accepted they have used prescriptions medications in the last 12 months for non-medical purposes. Opioids (74.4 %) particularly tramadol (60.1 %) were the most common drugs used. Male gender (p = 0.001), the age group 20–24-year, smoking (p = 0.043) and use of illicit substances (p < 0.001) were independent predictors of NMUPD. Prominent motivations were:- curiosity (31.1 %) and enhancement of work performance (30 %). Unregistered pharmacies and private health facilities were the main sources of these drugs which are acquired mainly without prescription. ConclusionMale gender, young adults, smoking and use of illicit substances were independent predictors of NMUPD. Motives were hinged to enhancement of performance in various domains of social life. Opioids, particularly tramadol was the predominant drug used, acquired without prescription from unregistered pharmacies. Findings of this study provide baseline evidence that could guide policies on drug prevention, treatment and harm reduction interventions.

Cannabis Use Behaviors and Related Harms among Adults in Thailand by Sex Assigned at Birth and Age Groups

Objective: The objectives of this study were to describe: 1) cannabis use behaviors; 2) self-reported cannabis-related harms and harmful behaviors among adults in Thailand, stratified by sex (assigned at birth) and age groups.Material and Methods: A nationally-representative survey among adults in Thailand in May 2023 was conducted. Data using descriptive statistics with sampling weight adjustment was analyzed.Results: Among the study participants (n=2,191 participants), approximately 15% of the participants were current cannabis users (estimated number: 7.5 million people aged 20 or over nationwide). Former and current users reported recreation or other non-medical purposes as the primary purposes of use (93% combined). Ingestion was the most common method of cannabis use. Male participants were more likely than female participants in all age groups to report using smoked cannabis. The most common harmful was riding a motorcycle after having used cannabis, although virtually no participants reported road accidents after same-day cannabis use.Conclusion: This study's data provided basic information for relevant stakeholders. However, the lack of detailed information, the potential influence of social desirability, and the limited temporal generalizability should be considered in the interpretation of this study’s findings.

How have cannabis use and related indicators changed since legalization of cannabis for non-medical purposes? Results of the Canadian Cannabis Survey 2018–2022

BackgroundCannabis use for non-medical purposes was legalized and regulated in Canada through the Cannabis Act in October 2018. This paper examined trends in use of cannabis for non-medical purposes and related indicators from pre- to post-legalization in Canada (2018–2022). MethodsData from 5 years of the Canadian Cannabis Survey, an annual web-based survey administered to Canadians 16 years of age or older, were used in the analysis (n2018=12,952; n2019=11,922; n2020=10,821; n2021=10,733; n2022=10,048). Cannabis measures include questions about use, types of products, sources, risk perceptions and beliefs, and exposure to public education campaigns and health warnings. Adjusted logistic regression models tested differences in outcomes over time. ResultsPast 12-month cannabis consumption increased among Canadians from 22 % in 2018 to 27 % in 2022 (AOR=1.41;99 % CI:1.28–1.54). Similarly, daily/almost daily (DAD) consumption increased from 5 % in 2018 to 7 % in 2022 (AOR=1.36;99 % CI:1.16–1.59). Consumption of dried flower, hash/kief, and concentrates/extracts (e.g., wax, shatter, budder) decreased since 2018, whereas consumption of edibles, beverages and vape pens/cartridges increased (p < 0.001). Legal purchasing increased from 4 % in 2018 to 69 % in 2022, while accessing cannabis through social and illegal sources decreased over time (p < 0.001). ConclusionMore Canadians are reporting cannabis consumption since legalization and regulation of cannabis for non-medical purposes, continuing a pre-existing trend despite an increase in awareness of the risks of consuming cannabis. Trends in product use indicate a transition from dried flower and concentrates/extracts towards consumption of cannabis foods, drinks and vape pens/cartridges. The legal market is increasingly displacing the illicit cannabis market in Canada.

Individual differences in legal and illicit cannabis purchasing behaviour in British Columbia, Canada: Findings from a 2021 cross-sectional survey

BackgroundDespite thousands of licensed cannabis retail stores operating across Canada, there remains a significant illicit cannabis market. Some cannabis users continue to buy cannabis from dealers, illicit stores, and/or illicit online retailers. MethodsData are from the 2021 British Columbia Cannabis Use Survey. Respondents (n = 8473) were 19 years or older, lived in British Columbia at the time of the survey, and reported using cannabis in the past 12 months. ResultsBuying cannabis from all types of illicit sources was more common among younger cannabis users, those who use cannabis more frequently and started using cannabis before the age of 17 (vs. 19 or older), and among those who co-use cannabis with other drugs. Specifically, buying cannabis from a dealer was more common among men, those with lower educational attainment, and those who seek the lowest prices when buying cannabis. In contrast, those using cannabis for medical (vs. non-medical) purposes were more likely to report getting cannabis from illicit retail stores, while buying cannabis from illicit websites was more common among people who use edible cannabis products. ConclusionConsistent with other studies, younger and more frequent cannabis users were more likely to report buying cannabis from illicit sources. However, these findings suggest there is significant heterogeneity among those who buy cannabis from different types of illicit sources, which should be carefully considered when developing policies and strategies aimed at encouraging consumers to transition to legal sources.

Simultaneous Cannabis and Alcohol Use among Medical Cannabis Patients

Background: During the past two decades of cannabis legalization, the prevalence of medical cannabis (MC) use has increased and there has also been an upward trend in alcohol consumption. As less restricted cannabis laws generate more adult cannabis users, there is concern that more individuals may be simultaneously using medical cannabis with alcohol. A few studies have examined simultaneous use of medical cannabis with alcohol, but none of those studies also assessed patients’ current or previous non-medical cannabis use. This paper explores simultaneous alcohol and medical cannabis use among medical cannabis patients with a specific focus on previous history of cannabis use and current non-medical cannabis use. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of MC patients (N = 319) from four dispensaries located in New York. Bivariate chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression are used to estimate the extent to which sociodemographic and other factors were associated with simultaneous use. Results: Approximately 29% of the sample engaged in simultaneous use and a large share of these users report previous (44%) or current (66%) use of cannabis for non-medical purposes. MC patients who either previously or currently use cannabis non-medicinally, men, and patients using MC to treat a pain-related condition, were significantly more likely to report simultaneous alcohol/MC use. Conclusions: Findings indicate that there may be differential risks related to alcohol/MC use, which should be considered by cannabis regulatory policies and prevention/treatment programs. If patients are using cannabis and/or alcohol to manage pain, clinicians should screen for both alcohol and cannabis use risk factors.

Blood purification practices: Some ethnopharmacological insight from a rural community in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBlood purification practices, also referred to as blood cleansing or detoxification, is an ancient concept which is widespread within African traditional medicine. There is, however, limited consolidated information about the selection of plant species, the purpose of use and how the preparation is made. An in-depth examination of how regional communities use medicinal plants for blood purification is needed to better understand this ethnopharmacological practice. Aim of the studyTo gather knowledge on the traditional use of medicinal plants used for the purpose of blood purification by laypersons in northern Maputaland, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MethodsAn ethnobotanical survey was conducted on medicinal plants used in the rural areas of northern Maputaland for blood purification. Interviews were conducted in 55 homesteads, where the most knowledgeable participant per household was interviewed using structured questionnaires. Information collected included knowledge of the concept of blood purification, purpose for medicating, plant selection, and mode of preparation. The most important species and families were identified through indices. ResultsSixty-four plant species from 35 families were recorded as blood purifiers for the treatment of ailments linked to the need for blood purification. Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. was the most used plant species (mentioned by 39% of the people interviewed). The conditions that were mostly associated with blood purification were skin complaints, gastro-intestinal disorders, and overall improvement of general health. Blood purification is also commonly used for non-medical purposes such as granting good luck or as a love charm. Six new plant species and five new Zulu vernacular names had not previously been documented for blood purification. ConclusionThe frequently mentioned use of medicinal plants for blood purification by the rural community of northern Maputaland clearly emphasises the importance of this cultural practice. There is no doubt that when examining African traditional medicine, holistic terms such as “blood cleansing” cannot be ignored. Future studies may provide a better understanding of this often misunderstood and undocumented practice.

Cannabis Legalization: Social Risk Assessment and Economic Forecast

Abstract The paper considers the problem of the economic feasibility of cannabis legalization in the Russian Federation. The paper also analyzes attitudes towards cannabis legalization among 584 residents (291 female and 293 male, 18.8 ± 1.4 for men, 18.3 ± 1.6 for women) from two different Russian regions (with the highest (Republic of Khakassia, Chelyabinsk Region, Moscow Region, Amur Region, and Saint-Petersburg) and lowest (Chukotka Autonomous District, Nenets Autonomous District, Chechen Republic, Arkhangelsk Region, and Orel Region) per capita drug use in the Russian Federation). All participants were interviewed via the Internet. In the first stage, a keyword analysis categorized articles into medical (48 %) and non-medical (52 %) cannabis use, revealing varied perspectives on its benefits and risks. The second stage surveyed Russian citizens, indicating regional differences in attitudes toward cannabis legalization based on per capita drug use. The third stage conducted a PEST analysis, highlighting economic consequences and offering recommendations. Practical implications include the need for targeted prevention programs, effective curriculum modules, and collaborative efforts to address the complex challenges associated with cannabis legalization. The study found that the public attitude towards the legalization of drugs for non-medical purposes is negative. In regions with the highest per capita soft drug use, the legalization of non-medical cannabis is unlikely to cause an increase in the level of usage. Teenagers living in regional centers tend to be more engaged in trying and using cannabis (11.9 %) compared to other cities (8.8 %, p ≤ 0.05) and rural areas, where the rate of cannabis use was the lowest (5.4 %, p ≤ 0.05). This research underscores the importance of tailored interventions and educational strategies to address diverse attitudes toward cannabis legalization. The findings contribute valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and health professionals, guiding the development of informed approaches to substance use prevention. The recommendations emphasize the necessity of proactive measures, such as outreach programs and collaborative efforts, to navigate the multifaceted implications of cannabis legalization and promote overall societal well-being.

Terminology Issues in the Field of Genetic Research

Due to the intensive development of genetic research, the availability of genetic testing is increasing, including those based on genome-wide sequencing offered by private and public laboratories. Genetic testing can be used to identify the cause of the disease in patients with suspected hereditary (orphan) diseases and as a screening tool for healthy people, for example, if expectant parents planning to have children are carriers of hereditary diseases, to identify the risks of hereditary oncological diseases and multifactorial diseases, for pharmacogenetic testing, as well as for non-medical purposes, for example to determine the «ethnic origin». In addition, genetic research can be used to identify individuals, including in criminology and for genomic registration, determination of paternity and other kinship. This review paper analyzes some issues of terminology in the field of genetic research, including their results, as well as the legal basis for the genetic certification of the population of the Russian Federation, the use of the terms «genetic passport», «genetic profile» and «genomic passport», «genomic profile» and provides recommendations for improving the use of relevant terms such as standardizing the requirements for the preparation of a report/conclusion on the results of a genetic study and resolving the issue of the medical nature of the full-genome sequencing process. In addition, the practice of using the term «genetic passport» in federal acts, as well as domestic and foreign literature and media publications, is analyzed. Not only does the paper reveal the concept of complete genome sequencing, but also provides cases of mandatory medical and biological examination, including complete genome sequencing.

Ethical and legal aspects of editing a patient’s genome for non-medical purposes

The need for knowledge of one’s own biological nature was a crucial impetus for scientific-technological progress in the fields of molecular biology, chemistry, and genetic engineering, which soon turned into a way to control human genetic material and its evolution. Although the procedure for reconstructing the personality genome is designed to protect humanity from hereditary or oncological diseases, there is still a huge risk of using this technology to modify intellectual abilities or physical characteristics. The purpose of this study is to describe and characterize the moral, ethical, and legal factors that arise in using technology to correct a person’s genetic code for non-medical reasons. Through systematic analysis and dialectical method, the current state of the legislative framework in the field of editing the biological material of the individual was investigated, while the generalisation method allowed identifying the main bioethical dilemmas associated with a certain problem. Exploring the possibility of changing the human genome through the prism of its interdependence with globalising metamorphoses in society, the key threats of the use of technology, its impact on the formation of the latest ethical standards, and compliance with the fundamental rights and freedoms of the patient were identified. Therewith, focusing on identifying gaps in the regulatory regulation of the human genome correction procedure, recommendations were made to improve the international legal foundation in this area of legal relations. In general, the chosen subject contains a considerable number of still unexplored aspects, so this study is designed to draw the scientific community’s attention to the problem of editing a person’s biological identity for non-medical purposes

The legalization of cannabis may result in increased indoor exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol

Cannabis is a genus of plants in the Cannabaceae family that contains tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. When heated or burned, the acid decarboxylates to form tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Its (-)-trans-Δ9-THC isomer is a psychoactive substance that has been used as a drug for centuries. In most countries, both the private sale of cannabis products and their use for non-medical purposes are still prohibited by law. However, for some time now there has been societal and political pressure to at least partially legalize cannabis products. It can be expected that such a measure will lead to a significant increase in the consumption of cannabis. However, this also increases the possibility of involuntary passive exposure to THC and contamination of the indoor environment. In indoor sciences, THC is still a largely unknown or underrepresented substance. In this perspective paper, THC will therefore first be presented on the basis of its physical properties. Then, the distribution of THC in different indoor compartments and potential routes of passive exposure are discussed. Finally, an assessment of the future importance of THC for indoor use is made. Previous experience has shown that early monitoring is always advantageous so that preventive and protective measures can be taken quickly if necessary.

Understanding Cannabis-Related Information Needs: An Analysis of Inquiries to the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service.

Purpose: Given increased cannabis use for medical and nonmedical purposes alike, there is growing public interest related to the potential risks and benefits of cannabis use, particularly related to cancer. The purpose of this descriptive study was to analyze cannabis inquiries to the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service (CIS). Materials and Methods: From September 2018 to June 2023, 190,070 noncannabis and 425 cannabis inquiries were documented by the CIS. Cannabis inquiries were delineated into two categories: nonmedical cannabis (NMC, n=240) or medical cannabis (MC, n=185). Chi-square tests were performed to determine differences between noncannabis and cannabis inquiries and descriptive analyses were used to identify patterns within cannabis-specific inquiries. Results: Statistically significant differences between noncannabis and cannabis inquiries were observed. In addition, there were variations in MC and NMC inquiries. For example, 73% of MC inquiries originated from cancer survivors and caregivers, whereas almost half of NMC inquiries (48%) were from individuals identifying as tobacco users. MC and NMC inquiries also differed by CIS access channel (e.g., instant chat, telephone), language used (English vs. Spanish), discussions of cancer continuum phases and cancer sites, and referrals provided to individuals for additional information and resources. Conclusion: Cannabis-related information needs of the public-as documented by the CIS-varied by several factors. Health information sources such as the CIS can help address cannabis-related questions and concerns, while noting differences in who is inquiring, how, and why.

Lived Experiences and Daily Life Fatigue among Non-Medical Prescribed Opioid Users in Pakistan: A Thematic Analysis

The misuse of opioids for non-medical purposes is a persistent public health concern worldwide, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan, where a considerable number of individuals experiences the deleterious physiological and psychological consequences stemming from this behavior. The primary aim of the study was to assess the personal experiences and fatigue levels of individuals engaging in non-medical opioid use. The data were collected from addiction, and rehabilitation centers and the sample consisted of 12 individuals both males and females, who aged from 18 to 60 years (M=27.64, SD=9.10). Additionally, individuals who were actively involved in non-medical opioid usage were included in the study. These individuals were assessed through the utilization of a semi-structured interview approach, providing a balanced framework that allowed for both predetermined questions and open-ended inquiries to gather comprehensive information. The finding reveals that various factors, including physical and mental health issues, family dynamics, and peer influence, contribute to opioid consumption. The study identifies a wide range of symptoms, from psychological and physical effects to dependency and isolation. Moreover, rehabilitation efforts may be affected by factors such as individual motivation and familial support, while the lack of awareness about addiction treatability serves as an inhibitory factor. Although the use of opioids can initially cause feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and heightened energy akin to manic symptoms, it frequently leads to detrimental psychological outcomes. These adverse effects include impulsive actions, guilt, and disruption in daily routines.

Baccalaureate nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, educational needs, and use of medical and non-medical cannabis at five institutions in Manitoba, Canada: A cross-sectional analysis

BackgroundWith the legalization of non-medical cannabis in Canada, cannabis is commonly used in the community and nurses and nursing students are likely to engage in clinical practice discussions around cannabis use for both medical and non-medical purposes. However, whether having previous experience using cannabis influences nursing students' knowledge and attitudes towards cannabis remains unclear. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to describe nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, educational needs, and use of cannabis. DesignCross-sectional survey. SettingFive academic undergraduate nursing programs in Manitoba, Canada. ParticipantsNursing students in Manitoba. MethodsStudents were asked about their use of cannabis, knowledge and attitudes regarding cannabis, clinical experiences and educational needs related to cannabis. Students' current knowledge was compared to their desired knowledge using paired t-tests. Using t-tests, attitudes towards cannabis were compared between students who had ever taken cannabis versus those with no experience. Descriptive statistics were utilized for all other questions. ResultsA total of 327 nursing students participated in the survey with 220 students (67.3 %) reporting they had used cannabis in the past, and 123 students (37.6 %) reporting monthly use of cannabis. Students who previously used cannabis held more positive attitudes towards both medical and non-medical cannabis use in comparison to those with no experience. Students recognised that their current knowledge around cannabis was insufficient and indicated the need for greater knowledge on both medical and non-medical cannabis-related topics. Only 37.7 % of students reported receiving any education on cannabis in their nursing program. Nearly all students (92.2 %) agreed if they had more education on medical cannabis use that they would feel more comfortable discussing this in their clinical practice. ConclusionEducation on both medical and non-medical cannabis is needed to support future nurses addressing cannabis use in their clinical practice. Nursing institutions must implement and evaluate curricula to ensure nursing students are adequately prepared to address cannabis use in their clinical practice and their own fitness to practice.

Pharmacokinetics of Oral Minor Cannabinoids in Blood and Brain.

Introduction: Minor cannabinoids are increasingly being consumed in oral formulations (i.e., edibles, tinctures) for medical and nonmedical purposes. This study examined the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabinol (CBN), and delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (D8-THC) after the first and last oral dose during a 14-day administration period. Materials and Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats (N=6 animals/dose, 50% female) were given an assigned dose of one of four cannabinoids (THCV=3.2-100 mg/kg, CBC=3.2-100 mg/kg, CBN=1-100 mg/kg, or D8-THC=0.32-10 mg/kg) or vehicle (medium-chain triglyceride oil) through oral gavage once daily for 14 days. Blood was collected 45 min and 1.5, 3, and 24 h following the first dose (day 1) and the last dose (day 14) of repeated oral cannabinoid treatment for PK analysis. Outcomes of interest included time to maximum concentration (Tmax), maximum concentration (Cmax), and area under the concentration versus time curve (AUClast). Dose-normalized (DN) Cmax and DN AUClast were also calculated. Brain tissue was collected 24 h post-administration of the first (day 1) and the last (day 14) dose of each cannabinoid to determine concentrations in brain. Results: All cannabinoids tested were detectable in plasma after single and 14-day repeated dosing. DN Cmax and DN AUClast were highest for D8-THC, followed by CBC, CBN, and THCV. There was no sex difference observed in cannabinoid kinetics. Accumulation of D8-THC in plasma was observed after 14 days of administration. THCV levels in plasma were lower on day 14 compared to day 1, indicating potential adaptation of metabolic pathways and increased drug elimination. Cannabinoids were detected in brain tissue 24 h post-administration of the first and the last dose of 17-100 mg/kg THCV, 3.2-100 mg/kg CBC, 10-100 mg/kg CBN, and 10 mg/kg D8-THC. Conclusions: THCV, CBC, CBN, and D8-THC produced detectable levels in plasma and translocated to brain tissue after the first dose (day 1) and the last dose (day 14) of repeated oral dosing. Examination of PKs of these minor cannabinoids in blood and brain provides a critical step for informing target dose ranges and dosing schedules in future studies that evaluate the potential effects of these compounds.

Quality Control of 11 Cannabinoids by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).

Cannabinoid extraction from Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) for nonmedical purposes has become popular in the United States. Concerns, however, have been raised regarding the accuracy of the labels for cannabinoid levels in the commercial products. In this study, we developed rapid, sensitive, selective, accurate, and validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the quantification of cannabinoids. The methods are for determining 11 cannabinoids in cannabis (hemp) extracted in oil form, and we investigated the accuracy of the labeling and thermal stability regarding the cannabinoids on 17 oil cannabis samples. In the UPLC chromatogram, we see a good resolution and there is no matrix effect and the accuracy were 98.2% to 102.6%, and the precision was 0.52%-8.18%. The linearity of the calibration curves in methanol was with a regression r2 ≥ 0.99. The lowest of detection (LOD) was 5-25 ng/mL, and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 10-50 ng/mL. The study showed that only 30% of the commercial samples were within the acceptable range of +/-10% compared to the labeled ingredient concentrations. The thermal stability test profile showed a change in the concentration of cannabinoids in each sample at 37°C for one week, with an average loss of cannabinoids up to 15%. The validated method proved to be selective, accurate, and precise, with acceptable linearity within the calibration range with no matrix effect. The stability profile data indicated that high temperatures could change the quality of commercial samples.