High5 with Dr. Igor Grant, MD

SummaryIn this episode of High5 with Dr. Igor Grant, Dr. Matt Springer explains how inhaling smoke from combusted products such as tobacco and cannabis, as well as inhaling aerosol from e-cigarettes and cannabis vaping devices, may impair endothelial function, an early marker of cardiovascular risk. Drawing on rodent and human studies, he reports that chronic tobacco smokers, e-cigarette users, and cannabis smokers all show reduced vascular function.He also discusses evidence that chronic THC edible users may have impaired vascular function through a different mechanism than inhaled products. A central message is that “cannabis use” is too imprecise a term, because smoking cannabis and ingesting THC are very different exposures. His public health takeaway is simple: be aware of cardiovascular risks, practice moderation, and avoid exposing others to secondhand smoke.Key TopicsEndothelial function and its role in cardiovascular healthEffects of tobacco, cannabis, and e-cigarette smoke on blood vesselsMechanisms of smoke-induced vascular impairmentDifferences between inhaled and ingested cannabis effectsPublic health implications of secondhand smoke exposureChapters00:00 Preview01:24 Dr. Springer's Background03:43 Exploring Cardiovascular Effects of Cannabis03:43 Personal Anecdote - Paul McCartney Concert05:13 Understanding Endothelial Function09:33 The Role of Endothelial Cells in Cardiovascular Health09:58 Understanding Vascular Health and Flow Mediated Dilation12:03 Translating Rodent Studies to Human Health14:20 The Impact of Cannabis and Tobacco Smoke on Vascular Function16:53 Chronic Use: Comparing Cannabis, Tobacco, and E-Cigarettes20:15 The Science Behind Smoke and Its Effects24:48 Distinguishing Cannabis Use from Smoking Effects29:08 Moderation and Public Health Messaging34:31 Secondhand Smoke: Risks and Recommendations

Summary: In this episode, Nathaniel Schuster, MD, Professor and Medical Director of the Center for Pain Management at UC San Diego Health, explores the potential role of cannabinoid therapy in migraine care. Join us as Dr. Schuster shares insights into the benefits, limitations, and practical considerations of this approach, and discusses his latest research on vaporized cannabis for acute migraine treatment, including clinical trial findings and future directions.Key Topics:Overview of the first placebo-controlled trial of vaporized cannabis for migraineThe scientific rationale behind using THC and CBD in migraine treatmentStudy design: crossover methodology, dosages, and use of research-grade cannabisPrimary and secondary outcomes: pain relief, pain freedom, and bothersome symptomsSurprising findings on nausea, photophobia, and sound sensitivity improvementsSide effects, safety profile, and optimal dosing strategiesPractical considerations: vaporized vs. oral formulations and patient preferencesRecommendations for patients with refractory migraines considering cannabinoid therapyFuture research directions: preventive treatments and guidelines incorporationTimestamps:00:03 - Introduction to Cannabis Study00:56 - Welcome Dr. Nathaniel Schuster01:41 - Dr. Schuster's Background02:29 - Understanding Migraine03:18 - Current Migraine Treatments04:14 - Defining Migraine05:11 - Genetic Factors in Migraine06:01 - Cannabis as a Treatment Option07:54 - Study Hypothesis and Design10:45 - Study Design Details13:41 - Crossover Study Explanation16:51 - Study Findings20:36 - Most Bothersome Symptom Freedom23:01 - Side Effects and Safety26:40 - Participant Demographics28:34 - Future Research Directions30:00 - Practical Considerations32:09 - Advice for Migraine Patients33:50 - Safety Considerations34:03 - Closing Remarks⁠Read Dr. Schusters's study.Bio: Dr. Nathaniel Schuster is a pain and headache neurologist and is Professor and Medical Director at the UC San Diego Center for Pain Management. He has served as Treasurer of the American Academy of Pain Medicine, Senior Vice President of the World Headache Society, and as Vice Chair of the Guidelines Committee for the International Pain and Spine Intervention Society. He has received the American Academy of Pain Medicine’s Rollin “Mac” Gallagher Award, the American Academy of Pain Medicine’s Distinguished Service Award, the American Headache Society’s Harold G. Wolff Award, the International Pain and Spine Intervention Society’s Outstanding Volunteer Award, and the Migraine Research Foundation’s Impact Award. He is section editor for the Neuropathic Pain section for the journal Pain Medicine. He graduated from University of Michigan Medical School and completed a neurology residency at UCLA, headache fellowship at Montefiore Headache Center, and pain fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. He conducted the first placebo-controlled trial of cannabinoids for acute migraine and his ongoing research includes clinical trials studying treatments for migraine and neuropathic pain.

In this episode, Catherine M. Cahill, PhD, Professor of Psychiatry at the UCLA Brain Research Institute, delves into the fascinating world of terpenes—natural aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants—and their potential therapeutic effects, especially for pain relief. Join us as Dr. Cahill shares her expertise on the mechanisms, research findings, and regulatory status of these promising molecules.es. Key Topics Covered:The basic chemistry and role of terpenes andterpenoids in plantsHow terpenes differ from cannabinoids like THCand CBDThe most studied terpenes in pain relief:myrcene and beta-caryophyllenePreclinical evidence for terpene analgesiceffects in nerve and inflammatory painThe endogenous cannabinoid system and howterpenes may modulate itEvidence for sex differences in terpene responseand receptor distributionThe regulatory status of terpenes as foodadditives and their availabilityEmerging research on terpene interactions withother cannabinoidsPotential for opioid-sparing effects andreducing adverse outcomes Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to cannabisterpenes and their therapeutic promise02:30 - Basic chemistry: what areterpenes and terpenoids?06:00 - The role of terpenes inattracting pollinators and plant defense09:30 - Key terpenes studied:myrcene and beta-caryophyllene13:00 - How terpenes influence theendogenous cannabinoid system15:45 - Differences betweenterpenes and cannabinoids17:30 - Conditions potentiallybenefitting from terpene treatment and current research21:00 - Preclinical findings:analgesic effects in nerve and inflammatory pain models26:00 - Modulation of emotionalaspects of pain through the cannabinoid system27:30 - The entourage effect: doterpenes enhance THC and CBD efficacy?31:00 - Regulatory status andsafety of terpenes34:00 - Sex differences andhormonal influences on terpene receptor expression36:00 - Future directions:combination therapies and opioid-sparing potentials38:00 - Final thoughts

In this episode, Dr. Deepak D'Souza, a renowned psychiatrist from Yale University, discusses the complex relationship between cannabis and psychosis. He explores the potential causal links, the role of environmental factors, and the implications of cannabis-induced psychosis as a precursor to schizophrenia. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of cannabis potency and its impact on mental health, drawing parallels with historical public health challenges like smoking and lung cancer.Takeaways• Cannabis can induce transient psychotic symptoms during intoxication.• Cannabis-induced psychosis may be a precursor to schizophrenia.• Environmental factors, like cannabis use, can impact schizophrenia risk.• Cannabis potency has increased, affecting psychosis rates.• Cannabis is a modifiable risk factor for mental health disorders.• Not everyone who uses cannabis develops psychosis.• Cannabis use during adolescence may increase schizophrenia risk.• Genetic predisposition plays a role in cannabis-related psychosis.• Cannabis and schizophrenia have a complex, multifactorial relationship.• Preventing cannabis use in youth could reduce schizophrenia cases.Chapters00:00 - Intro01:19 - Professional Background - Deepak Cyril D'Souza02:29 - Understanding Psychosis and Cannabis03:15 - Background on Schizophrenia05:06 - Symptoms of Psychosis vs. Psychotic Disorders, Causality10:31 - Cannabis Induced Psychosis12:28 - Causality: Cannabis and Schizophrenia | The Bradford Hill Criteria for Causality23:20 - The Role of Genetics and Environment29:30 - Risk Factors Associated with Schizophrenia 32:29 - Advice for Healthcare Providers and Families

SummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Igor Grant and Dr. Eric Leas delve into the complexities surrounding Delta-8-THC, exploring its differences from Delta-9-THC, consumer demand, regulatory challenges, and safety concerns. They discuss the implications of state regulations on the market, the need for compliance in cannabis research, and the future of Delta-8-THC regulation. The conversation also touches on the broader landscape of cannabinoids and psychoactive substances, highlighting the ongoing evolution of cannabis regulation and public health considerations.TakeawaysDelta-8-THC is structurally similar to Delta-9-THC but less psychotropic effect.Consumer demand for Delta-8 is driven by its legal status as a hemp product in states without medical or recreational cannabis use regulations.Regulatory challenges exist due to the lack of standardized safety measures.States with legal cannabis markets are concerned about competition from Delta-8 products.Research on Delta-8 is limited, necessitating further studies on its effects.The market for Delta-8 is largely unregulated, raising safety concerns.There is a growing interest in other cannabinoids and psychoactive substances.Compliance checks in cannabis retail are complicated by federal laws.The patchwork of state regulations creates confusion for consumers and manufacturers.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Delta-8 THC02:51 Understanding Delta-8 THC: Differences and Similarities05:15 Consumer Demand: Supply and Demand Dynamics09:48 Regulatory Challenges and Safety Concerns17:01 Research Background and Interest in Delta-8 THC19:33 Compliance and Regulation in Cannabis Sales21:50 Redesigning State and Federal Cannabis Policy24:24 The Future of Delta-8 THC Regulation27:39 Exploring Other Cannabinoids and Their Implications32:25 The Broader Landscape of Psychoactive Substances

In this conversation, Dr. Igor Grant and Dr. Alison Moore discuss the increasing prevalence of cannabis use among older adults, the reasons behind this trend, and the medical applications of cannabis. She highlights the complexities of cannabis use, including its association with comorbid conditions and the challenges in educating both healthcare providers and patients about its safe use. The conversation emphasizes the need for more research and better education in the field of geriatric care regarding cannabis.Takeaways• Alison Moore is the Chief of Geriatrics at UC San Diego.• Cannabis use among older adults is increasing.• Reasons for cannabis use include pain, sleep issues, and anxiety.• Older adults often use cannabis for medical purposes.• The prevalence of cannabis use in older adults varies by survey.• Long-term users tend to prefer smoking, while newer users prefer edibles.• Cannabis use is linked to comorbid conditions like diabetes and heart disease.• Education on cannabis use is lacking among healthcare providers.• Patients often receive cannabis information from non-medical sources.• There is a need for more research on cannabis effects in older adults.Chapters00:00 Intro02:00 Prevalence and Reasons for Cannabis Use03:56 Medical Applications and User Experiences06:41 What Types of Products Are Older Adults Using?08:32 Cannabinoids and Behaviors in Older Adults11:40 Cannabis as a Treatment for Dementia Symptoms13:54 Risk/Benefit for Clinicians Recommending Cannabis14:38 Different Risks for Different Methods of Use16:14 Pharmacokinetics of Different Methods of Use16:45 Sources of Products for Older Adults19:37 The Stigma of Cannabis Disclosure20:48 Complexities of Cannabis and Alcohol Use25:08 Educating Physicians on Cannabis26:57 Advice for Patients Considering Cannabis29:58 Understanding Cannabis Use Disorder32:07 Inhalation vs. Oral Cannabis Use33:31 Final Thoughts on Cannabis Education36:16 OutroBioAlison A. Moore, MD, MPH, FACP, AGSF, is a Professor and Chief of the Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology and Palliative Care, and Director of the Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging and the Center for Healthy Aging. She holds the Larry L. Hillblom Chair in Geriatric Medicine. She is a geriatrician who provides primary and consultative care to older adults and a public health researcher whose work focuses principally on older adults with unhealthy substance use. She also has interests in healthy aging, gerontechnology, health equity, and aging and HIV. Dr. Moore has a passion for health equity; she was the inaugural Vice Chair for Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the Department of Medicine. She is equally passionate about mentorship; in 2019, she was awarded the UC San Diego Health Sciences Faculty Excellence in Mentoring Award. She is MPI of an NIA-funded Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (P30AG059299) and has been the recipient of a K24 Midcareer Award in Patient-Oriented Research from NIAAA (K24AA15957). She is an elected member of the Board of Directors of the American Geriatrics Society and is currently its President-elect.

SummaryIn episode 10, Drs. Grant and Alan Budney, PhD of Dartmouth explore the intersection of cannabis use and behavioral health, focusing on contingency management as a method for addressing problematic cannabis use. The discussion highlights the integration of digital technologies in interventions, the role of craving in cannabis use, and the challenges healthcare providers face in communicating about cannabis. Additionally, the conversation addresses the co-occurrence of mood disorders with cannabis use and the potential of social media to influence public perception and behavior regarding cannabis.TakeawaysContingency management applies principles of reinforcement to change behavior.Monitoring systems are essential for effective interventions.Incentives are crucial for encouraging positive behavior change.Setting achievable targets increases the likelihood of success.Digital technologies can enhance the accessibility of interventions.Craving is a significant factor in substance use behavior.Real-time assessments can help manage cravings effectively.Healthcare providers need better education on cannabis use.Mood disorders often co-occur with problematic cannabis use.Social media can be leveraged for positive cannabis messaging.Chapters00:00 Intro - Ecological Momentary Assessment00:46 Intro02:06 The Role of Reinforcement Schedules (ContingencyManagement)10:17 Digital Innovations in Cannabis Treatment16:19 Privacy Concerns in Digital Interventions18:57 Exploring the Phenomenon of Craving20:51 Ecological Momentary Assessment in Action24:50 Healthcare Providers and Cannabis Communication32:55 Mood Disorders and Cannabis Use39:54 The Role of Social Media in Cannabis Education43:17 Outro Animation.mp443:57 Changes in Use Patterns Amid Legalization 

SummaryIn episode 9, Drs. Grant and Ziva Cooper discuss her research on medicinal cannabis, focusing on gender differences in cannabis response, the therapeutic potential of minor cannabinoids and terpenes, and the opioid-sparing effects of cannabinoids. The conversation highlights the complexities of cannabis research, including regulatory challenges and the need for further studies to clarify the role of cannabinoids in medicine.Takeaways• Dr. Ziva Cooper is a leading researcher in medicinal cannabis.• Gender differences in cannabis response are significant.• Women may be more sensitive to the pain-relieving effects of cannabis.• Minor cannabinoids like CBG show promise for therapeutic use.• Terpenes may enhance the effects of THC without psychoactivity.• Cannabinoids could potentially reduce opioid use in chronic pain patients.• Research on cannabinoids faces significant regulatory hurdles.• Understanding the psychological aspects of pain is crucial.• The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids is still being explored.• Future research is needed to clarify the role of cannabinoids in medicine.Chapters00:00 CBG for Pain and Appetite Stimulation00:51 Exploring Sex Differences in Cannabis Response00:52 Intro01:24 Understanding Cannabinoids: THC, CBD, and Beyond01:24 Introduction to Ziva Cooper, PhD02:17 THC and Sex and Gender Differences11:09 Minor Cannabinoids, Terpenes and Terpenoids13:46 Cannabigerol (CBG) for Pain and Appetite Stimulation20:21 Cannabichromine for Pain21:48 Exploring Cannabichromine (CBC) and Its Potential22:21 Understanding Terpenes and Terpendoids (Myrcene and Beta-Caryophyllene)24:46 The Different Regulatory Status of Terpenes and Terpenoids26:04 Cannabinoids as Opioid-Sparing Agents30:22 Cannabinoids and Substance Use Disorders32:04 The Psychological Experience of Pain35:14 Advancing Cannabinoid Research in Medicine38:10 Regulatory Hurdles to Researching Cannabis and Cannabinoids40:16 Outro

SummaryIn episode 8, Drs. Igor Grant and Dale Gieringer discuss Dr. Gieringer’s extensive involvement in cannabis legalization efforts in California, particularly through his work with California NORML. He reflects on the historical context surrounding cannabis laws, the significance of Proposition 215, the first medical marijuana initiative, and the subsequent passage of Proposition 64, which legalized recreational use. Dr. Gieringer emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and research in the field of cannabis, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in harmonizing state and federal regulations.Takeaways• Dale Gieringer has been involved in cannabis reform since 1987.• NORML was founded to advocate for consumer rights regarding marijuana.• Proposition 215 was the first medical marijuana law in the U.S.• The medical marijuana movement gained momentum in the 1990s in San Francisco, CA.• Public support for cannabis legalization has grown significantly over the years.• Proposition 64 decriminalized marijuana and reduced felony arrests.• Research on cannabis remains limited due to federal restrictions.• The medical ID card program in California is underutilized.• There is a need for better education among cannabis dispensary staff.• Future cannabis policy should focus on harmonizing state and federal laws.Chapters00:00 – Intro01:02 – Dr. Geringer's Background05:54 – What is NORML and CalNORML?07:05 – The Role of NORML in Cannabis Legalization10:14 – The Journey of Proposition 21513:29 – Dr. Tod Mikuriya's Role16:35 – Dennis Peron and San Francisco's Medical Marijuana Initiative in 199118:27 – San Francisco's Patient's Buyers Club & Prop 21521:04 – Ballot Measures in California & Prop 21523:20 – Rescheduling Cannabis24:24 – Prop 19, Prop 64, & Adult Use Legalization35:35 – Future Directions for Cannabis Legislation37:10 – The State of Medical Cannabis in California42:50 – Outro

In episode 7, Dr. Igor Grant and Dr. Daniele Piomelli examine intricacies of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), exploring its mechanisms, functions, and implications in health and medicine. They discuss the role of cannabinoids in signaling, the distribution of cannabinoid receptors, and the ECS’s influence on feeding behavior, pain management, and social interactions. The conversation highlights potential therapeutic approaches targeting the ECS, highlighting differences between central and peripheral Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors, while also addressing the challenges faced in drug development and the need for further research.TakeawaysThe endocannabinoid system (ECS) is crucial for cellular communication.The ECS operates on-demand, producing endocannabinoids when needed.Cannabinoid receptors are widely distributed throughout the body.2-AG acts as a circuit breaker in the brain's signaling.Anandamide plays a role in stress coping and social bonding.The ECS influences feeding behavior and hunger regulation.New drug classes targeting the ECS show promise for obesity management.Pain management through ECS modulation is complex and requires careful study.Research into para-cannabinoids (e.g., Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)) may reveal new therapeutic avenues.The ECS's role in social interactions is an emerging area of interest.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System08:16 - Understanding the Endocannabinoid System18:02 - Functions and Distribution of Cannabinoid Receptors20:00 - Endocannabinoids and Feeding Behavior28:26 - Endocannabinoids in Pain Management37:22 - Endocannabinoids and Social Interactions44:53 - Surprises and Future Directions in Research

In episode 6, Dr. Grant and Dr. Meg Haney delve into thecomplexities of Cannabis Use Disorder, exploring its definition, withdrawal symptoms, and the psychological dependency associated with cannabis use. They discuss the impact of cannabis on sleep and mood, the prevalence of CannabisUse Disorder among those with psychiatric conditions, and the challenges in treating cannabis dependency. The conversation also highlights the intersection of cannabis use with other substances, particularly tobacco, and emphasizes theneed for further research to understand the therapeutic benefits and risks of cannabis use.TakeawaysCannabis Use Disorder is characterized by preoccupation and disruption in life.Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, and disrupted sleep.Cannabis can lead to psychological dependency, similar to other substances.The severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary among individuals.Cannabis withdrawal can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to nightmares.Cannabis is often used for sleep, but it may not be effective long-term.The prevalence of Cannabis Use Disorder can be higher among those with psychiatric conditions.Treatment approaches for Cannabis Use Disorder include medications like Nabilone.Tobacco use can predict worse outcomes in treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder.Future research is needed to understand the effects of cannabis on pain and tolerance. Chapters00:00 - Intro01:06 - Introduction of Meg Haney, PhD01:45 - Cannabis Use Disorder Defined03:22 - Cannabis Dependence & Withdrawal Symptoms07:49 - Cannabis & Sleep09:46 - Withdrawal & Anxiety10:47 - Cannabis Withdrawal Compared to Alcohol, Tobacco& Other Substances13:45 - The Complexity of Cannabis Use and Dependency19:33 - Treatment Approaches for Cannabis Use Disorder25:41 - The Intersection of Cannabis and Other Substances32:22 - Future Research Directions in Cannabis Studies34:25 - Closing Thoughts36:24 - Outro

In episode 5, Dr. Grant speaks with Dr. Mark Ware as he discusses the evolution of cannabis use in pain management, the implications of the Cannabis Act in Canada, and the differences in cannabis policies between Canada and the U.S. Dr. Ware highlights the importance of understanding the psychoactive effects of cannabis, the challenges in medical research, and the need for a cohesive regulatory framework to ensure safety and efficacy in cannabis products.BioMark A. Ware, MD, MBBS, MSc, MRCPDr. Ware is an Associate Professor of Family Medicine and holds the Alan Edwards Chair in Clinical Pain at McGill University. He is also the Director of the interdisciplinary Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit at Montreal General Hospital.He was a co-founder of the non-profit Canadian Consortium for the Investigation of Cannabinoids and served as Executive Director from2007 to 2018. Dr. Ware has advised the Canadian federal government on cannabis policy since 2001, and in 2016, he served as the vice-chair of the Federal Task Force on the Legalization and Regulation of Cannabis in Canada. The task force’s report became Canadian law as the Cannabis Act in October 2018.  TakeawaysPatients reported that cannabis helped their pain.The Cannabis Act was developed to allow for legalization and regulation.Cannabis is not covered under most provincial drug frameworks.The sky didn't fall after legalization; no major public health issues arose.The consumer has become a lot more educated about cannabis products.There is a patchwork of cannabis regulations in the U.S.The industry didn't pick up on medical research as hoped after legalization.A federal strong policy would be a game changer for cannabis regulation.The psychoactive effects of cannabis can play a role in pain management.The narrative around cannabis is slowly changing from prohibition to acceptance.Chapters00:00 High5 Introduction01:09 Intro & background of Dr. Mark Ware02:08 Early Research and Patient Experiences 05:38 Cannabis as an Analgesic07:53 The Cannabis Act: Overview and Features09:43 The Evolution of the Cannabis Act10:34 Medical Use and Prescription Challenges12:06 Insurance and Coverage for Cannabis12:58 Patient Conversations and Treatment Frameworks15:40 Post-Legalization Insights and Observations19:21 Provincial Variations in Cannabis Regulation21:16 Impact on Medical Research24:25 GPP v. GMP27:27 Lessons for the U.S. from Canada’s Experience33:20 Outro

Dr. Grant speaks with Alex P. Miller, Ph.D., an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Indiana University School of Medicine. This conversation explores the intricate relationship between substance use, genetics, and brain structure, focusing on the ABCD study, which follows children over a decade to understand the onset of substance use and its effects on mental health. Dr. Alex Miller discusses the role of neuroimaging in identifying brain differences that may predispose individuals to substance use, the influence of genetics and environment, and the implications of these findings for understanding addiction and recovery.TakeawaysThe ABCD study involves nearly 12,000 children and tracks their development over time.Neuroimaging can reveal brain differences that may predispose individuals to substance use.Genetics and environment interact to influence the risk of substance use disorders.Impulsivity is linked to both personality traits and substance use initiation.The caudate plays a role in reward processing and may influence cannabis use.Brain structure can change over time, indicating resilience in recovery from substance use.Findings suggest that larger brain volumes may not correlate with better outcomes.The study highlights the importance of early environmental influences on brain development.Understanding the relationship between brain structure and substance use is complex and multifaceted.Future research will continue to explore the dynamic interplay between genetics, environment, and substance use.Chapters00:00 -Preview00:12 - Dr. Miller's background01:39 - The chicken and egg problem02:08 - Dr. Miller's research & the ABCD Study05:18 - Genetics & epigenetics, Nature v. Nurture07:33 - Impulsivity and Substance Use09:19 - Neuroimaging techniques used to evaluate brain size13:16 - Findings on brain structure and size16:02 - Cannabis use and brain structure21:29 - The Dynamic Relationship Between Brain and Behavior22:11 - Implications of the research findings25:27 - Where do brain differences come from?27:18 - OutroStudiesNeuroanatomical Variability and Substance Use Initiation in Late Childhood and Early Adolescence

In this episode, Dr. Igor Grant speaks with Dr. Jamie Corroon about the impact of cannabis use on cardiovascular health. They explore various studies focusing on heart disease, hypertension, and atherosclerosis, discussing both acute and long-term effects of cannabis. Dr. Corroon shares insights from his research, highlighting the importance of understanding the relationship between cannabis and cardiovascular outcomes, while also addressing the need for more rigorous studies to clarify potential risks.Chapters00:00 - Research Methodology and Data Collection00:31 - Podcast overview01:06 - Dr. Corroon's background03:26 - Acute effects of cannabis use on the heart04:13 - Chronic effects05:39 - Research methods used to study chronic effects07:05 - Datasets used to study cardiovascular disease07:48 - Findings for heart attack10:14 - Cannabis use and heart attack12:30 - Heavy use and heart attack13:36 Atherosclerosis & carotid artery calcification18:22 - Findings related to carotid artery calcification20:37 - Hypertension and Long-term Cannabis Use21:52 - Conclusions and Future Research Directions24:08 - Final thoughts24:51 - OutroAdditional resources:Trends in Cannabis Use, Blood Pressure, and Hypertension in Middle-Aged Adults: Findings From NHANES, 2009-2018Associations Between Monthly Cannabis Use and Myocardial Infarction in Middle-Aged Adults: NHANES 2009 to 2018Regular cannabis smoking and carotid artery calcification in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)

In this episode (Recorded in December 2024), Drs. Igor Grant, MD and Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH discuss the potential implications of rescheduling cannabis from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance. They explore the current scheduling system, the medicinal value of cannabis, the challenges researchers face under Schedule I, and how rescheduling could impact research and funding. They also emphasize the need for harmonization between state and federal laws to facilitate cannabis research.Takeaways Rescheduling cannabis would acknowledge its medicinal value.Research on cannabis is heavily regulated under Schedule One.Moving to Schedule Three would ease some research restrictions.The FDA and DEA play crucial roles in cannabis research approval.More manufacturers of cannabis products for research have been approved recently.The stigma around cannabis research may decrease with rescheduling.Current cannabis products from dispensaries cannot be used in research.Standardization of cannabis products for research is challenging.Harmonization of state and federal laws is essential for effective research.Chapters00:00 - Intro01:08 - Conversation with Dr. Grant17:29 - Outro

In this episode, Dr. Tom Marcotte discusses a significant study on the acute effects of cannabis on driving impairment, detailing the methodology, findings, and implications for public safety and law enforcement. The conversation explores how THC levels affect driving performance, the perception of impairment among users, and the challenges of conducting cannabis research in a regulated environment. Future research directions and participant recruitment for upcoming studies are also highlighted.Takeaways The study was the largest randomized double-blind clinical trial on cannabis and driving. Participants showed similar levels of impairment regardless of THC content. Behavioral tolerance plays a significant role in driving performance among frequent users. Perception of impairment can be misleading; users may feel safer to drive before they are actually recovered. Blood THC concentrations do not correlate with driving impairment, unlike alcohol. Future studies will explore real-world cannabis products and their effects on driving. The research aims to improve understanding of cannabis use and public safety. Participants will be recruited from the community for upcoming studies. The driving simulator is designed to replicate real-world driving challenges. The study's findings have important implications for law enforcement and public policy.Chapters00:00 - Preview00:30 - Intro01:15 - Cannabis & Driving Impairment13:35 - New Observational Study - Real World Cannabis Study18:17 - New CMCR Mobile Driving Simulator & Clinical Lab19:22 - Outro