On May 21, 2024, ACS was joined by Dr. Eugene Vortsman as he discussed the risks associated with cannabis.

Dr. Vortsman, dual board-certified in emergency and addiction medicine, explores the evolving nature of cannabis, emphasizing potential risks and demographic impacts. He discourages regression to outdated stigmas and underlines the need for balanced views.

Topics covered include cannabis dependency and its lower risk compared to nicotine and alcohol, the challenges of regulating potency in modern products, and the rise in poison control calls related to cannabis.

The presentation highlights the lack of comprehensive data on cannabis's effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding, recommending caution. Youth and adolescent exposure is linked to cognitive and educational declines, though findings are inconsistent. The elderly face unique risks with cannabis, especially in combination with other medications.

Dr. Hortzman also discusses cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a condition of severe vomiting in frequent users, stressing the need for improved education and destigmatization among healthcare providers. The session concludes with a Q&A where concerns about standardization, existing research, and educating both current and new healthcare professionals about cannabis are addressed.

To learn more about the risks associated with cannabis, take the ACS Introduction to Cannabinoid Medicine course here.