Increased emergency room visits without corresponding rehospitalizations in cannabis users with psychosis

• Published in: European psychiatry 2024-08, Vol.67 (S1), p.S388-S389
• Main Authors: Martin-Santiago, O, Calvo-Valcarcel, M, MartinezGimeno, P, Alario-Ruiz, C, Arribas-Simon, B
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Consumers; Emergency medical care; Marijuana; Psychosis; Schizophrenia
• ISSN: 0924-9338; 1778-3585
• DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.799

IntroductionEpidemiological studies have established a complex relationship between cannabis consumption and a heightened risk of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia. However, this connection is multifaceted, influenced by genetics, environment, and individual psychology. Surprisingly, despite a surge in emergency room (ER) visits associated with cannabis consumption and psychosis, there haven’t been significant increases in hospital readmissions. This rise in ER visits can be attributed to the increasing social acceptance of cannabis and its legalization in some regions, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects. Furthermore, the higher potency of contemporary cannabis can trigger psychotic reactions, particularly in those consuming elevated levels of THC, its primary psychoactive component.ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the rates of readmissions and ER visits one year after hospital discharge among patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, stratified by cannabis consumption.MethodsWe collected sociodemographic and clinical data from 109 patients after discharge from a psychiatric hospitalization unit.ResultsPatients who consumed cannabis (N=35) were younger than non-consumers (M=31.4; SD=10.0 vs M=44.3; SD=11.4; t(107)=5.71; p