Session 30

Clinical toxicology of cannabis and cannabinoids

Programme of the Session

S30-01
Pharmacology of cannabis and cannabinoids: understanding the basis of toxicity
Bruno Mégarbane
Department of Medical and Toxicological Critical Care, Lariboisière Hospital Paris-Diderot University INSERM UMRS 1144, Paris, France
S30-02
Toxicovigilance of synthetic cannabinoids — perspectives from the EU Early Warning System
Michael Evans-Brown
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addicition (EMCDDA), Lisbon, Portugal
S30-03
The acute neuropsychiatric effects of cannabis and cannabinoid receptor agonists from a clinical perspective
Christopher Yates
Emergency Department/Clinical Toxicology Unit, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
S30-04
The complex interaction between cannabinoids and psychiatric and cognitive effects
Amir Englund
Department of Psychosis studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. King's College London, London, United Kingdom
S30-05
The cardiovascular effects of cannabis and cannabinoids: myth or reality?
David Wood
Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, United Kingdom

Session Abstract

Popularity of cannabis (from a long time) and of the new synthetic cannabinoids (more recently) is attributed to the resulting intense psychoactive effects. These drugs are widely marketed in Europe, easily accessible from the Internet and even with a legal status in some countries . The potency and psychoactive effects of these agents make them hazardous and potentially addictive compounds, leading to cognitive impairments, addiction syndrome and withdrawal symptoms. More recently, increasing evidence has been reported regarding potential cardiovascular toxicity. This symposium will present the pharmacology, epidemiology, acute and chronic toxicity of cannabis and cannabinoids, showing the potential threat resulting from the large consumption of these agents. Molecular mechanisms, newly identified clinical presentations, and debated issues of toxicity will be presented.