Potential Iatrogenic Harms From Medicinal Cannabis Prescribing in Australia: A Case Series.
Richard Bradlow, James Sorensen, Anna Cunningham et al.
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Case in brief
This case series details three young men, aged 20-24, with psychiatric disorders and substance use vulnerabilities who were prescribed medicinal cannabis. They experienced significant iatrogenic harms, including cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, cannabis use disorder, paranoia, and affective instability. Notably, in two cases, prescribing continued despite adverse outcomes and requests for cessation from an addiction specialist.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should be cautious when prescribing medicinal cannabis to patients with psychiatric disorders and substance use vulnerabilities, as it may lead to significant adverse effects.
Why it matters
The findings underscore the need for more stringent prescribing practices and monitoring to prevent iatrogenic harms in vulnerable populations.