Research Completed

Published Studies

Year Publication Categories
2018
Profiles of Patients Who Use Marijuana for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Summary

Marijuana is legal in a number of states for indications that include inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and patients are interested in its potential benefits. For this study, we aimed to describe the legal use of marijuana in individuals with IBD in the USA who participate within the IBD Partners Patient Network. Approximately 2400 participants who lived in states where prescription or recreational marijuana was legal, were offered the chance to complete a survey on marijuana use and IBD symptoms. Surveys were completed by 1666 participants (71%). Within the surveyed group, 234 participants lived where both medical and recreational marijuana is legal and 49 mentioned recreational marijuana use specifically for IBD. Most of the users reported positive benefits, but users also reported more depression, anxiety, pain, and lower social satisfaction than non-users. Overall, we found that few IBD patients consulted their medical doctors about marijuana use or used prescription marijuana. Where recreational marijuana was available, usage rates were higher. Users reported benefits but also more I BD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and pain. Marijuana use may be higher in patients with IBD symptoms not well treated by traditional medical treatments.


Full Scientific Manuscript

Keywords
Marijuana; Ulcerative colitis; Crohn s disease; Cannabis; Cannabinoids;

Alternative Therapies,
Medications,
Health Maintenance