JAMA Clinical Reviews Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Therapeutic Purposes
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Nov 26, 2025 In a thought-provoking discussion, Kevin Hill, an addiction specialist and Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, dives into the therapeutic applications of cannabis and cannabinoids. He highlights the critical balance clinicians must find between the benefits and risks of use. Hill shares data on the prevalence of medical cannabis, explains FDA-approved formulations, and addresses acute and chronic risks associated with THC. He also discusses strategies for harm reduction and voices concerns about adolescent use impacting cognitive health.
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Cannabis Is Chemically Complex
- Cannabis contains hundreds of chemicals including flavonoids, terpenes, and over 140 cannabinoids.
- We mostly study THC and CBD but the plant's chemistry far exceeds current knowledge.
THC Causes The High; CBD Does Not
- THC produces the psychoactive 'high' and can cause psychosis in some individuals.
- CBD is not intoxicating and does not produce the typical marijuana high.
Medical Use Is Common
- About 27% of adults in the U.S. and Canada have used cannabis medically and over 10% have tried CBD for medical reasons.
- Medical cannabinoid use is more common than many clinicians expect.
