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Addiction Science & Clinical Practice
Published in: Addiction Science & Clinical Practice 1/2019

Open Access 01-12-2019 | Opioids | Review

Priming primary care providers to engage in evidence-based discussions about cannabis with patients

Authors: Devan Kansagara, William C. Becker, Chelsea Ayers, Jeanette M. Tetrault

Published in: Addiction Science & Clinical Practice | Issue 1/2019

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Abstract

Cannabis use has become increasingly common in the U.S. in recent years, with legalization for medical and recreational purposes expanding to more states. With this increase in use and access, providers should be prepared to have more conversations with patients about use. This review provides an overview of cannabis terminology, pharmacology, benefits, harms, and risk mitigation strategies to help providers engage in these discussions with their patients. Current evidence for the medical use of cannabis, cannabis-related diagnoses including cannabis use disorder (CUD) and withdrawal syndromes, and the co-use of opioids and cannabis are discussed. It is crucial that providers have the tools and information they need to deliver consistent, evidence-based assessment, treatment, prevention and harm-reduction, and we offer practical guidance in these areas.
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Metadata
Title
Priming primary care providers to engage in evidence-based discussions about cannabis with patients
Authors
Devan Kansagara
William C. Becker
Chelsea Ayers
Jeanette M. Tetrault
Publication date
01-12-2019
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Addiction Science & Clinical Practice / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1940-0640
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13722-019-0171-3

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