Cannabis y depresión

Meta-Analysis: Cannabis Use in Adolescence Linked to Later Depression, Suicide

By Amy Orciari Herman

Adolescents who use cannabis face increased risks for depression and suicidality in young adulthood, according to a meta-analysis in JAMA Psychiatry.

Researchers examined data from 11 prospective studies that assessed the association between any cannabis use at age 18 or younger and depression, anxiety, or suicidality at ages 18 through 32. After adjustment for depression and anxiety at baseline, those who used cannabis in adolescence were significantly more likely than those who didn't use it to experience later depression (odds ratio, 1.4), suicidal ideation (OR, 1.5), and suicide attempts (OR, 3.5). Cannabis use was not significantly associated with anxiety.

The researchers cite data indicating that over 20% of U.S. teens report using cannabis in the past month. They conclude, "Although individual-level risk remains moderate to low ... the high prevalence of adolescents consuming cannabis generates a large number of young people who could develop depression and suicidality attributable to cannabis. This is an important public health problem and concern."

Why We Chose This as Our Top Story

William E. Chavey, MD, MS: As the social and regulatory climate surrounding marijuana use changes, the debate should center on science. Studies such as this become increasingly important.

Andre Sofair, MD, MPH: Many states, including my own, are considering legalization of recreational marijuana. I feel that it is important for both physicians and public health practitioners to participate in this public discourse.

JAMA Psychiatry article (Free abstract)

Background: NEJM Journal Watch Psychiatry coverage of one of the studies used in the meta-analysis (Your NEJM Journal Watch registration required)

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Benjamin Hidalgo-Matlock
Skin Care Physicians of Costa Rica

Clinica Victoria en San Pedro: 4000-1054
Momentum Escazu: 2101-9574

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