网曝黑料

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Responding to the London Drugs Commission report, the 网曝黑料 has called for an end to underestimating the harms caused by use of natural cannabis and ‘synthetic’ cannabinoids.^{1 2}

Dr Lade Smith CBE, President of the 网曝黑料, said:

“Cannabis is the most widely used illicit substance in the UK, and around a third of people who use cannabis develop a problem with the drug at some point during their lives. This is a similar proportion to people who will develop a problem with alcohol. Despite this, there is a widespread misapprehension that cannabis is not an addictive substance.

“The use of both natural and ‘synthetic’ cannabinoids over the long-term risks addiction and severe co-occurring mental illness harms. Daily cannabis use is associated with depression, anxiety and reduced motivation. At worst, it makes vulnerable people up to five times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder, with adolescents at particular risk.

“We agree with the London Drugs Commission’s ambition to focus on a public health approach to cannabis use especially given the disproportionately negative impact cannabis use has on younger people.

“And though we also welcome an examination of the danger of synthetic cannabinoids, it is important not to underestimate the potential harms caused by natural cannabis. Some of the most potent cannabis found on our streets is natural in origin.

“As a priority, the UK Government must provide substance use and mental health services with the training, staff, and funding they need to support people with co-occurring substance use and mental illness. The RCPsych has recently published a report on co-occurring substance use and mental illness. This can be used to support the implementation of a co-ordinated approach, across England, in which patients are managed based on the severity of their illness and level of need.”

References

1. The 网曝黑料’ recent report Co-occurring substance misuse and mental disorders includes detailed information on cannabis misuse and mental illness: CR243 Co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders (CoSUM).
2. Synthetic cannabinoids are also available on illegal drug markets. These substances attempt to mimic the effects of plant-based cannabis, by working directly on the cannabinoid system, but contain no THC and CBD. Synthetic cannabinoid products are usually more potent and toxic than plant-based cannabis.