From the Guidelines
Marijuana use has not been directly linked to pancreatitis in the most recent and highest quality study available, which focuses on the association of cannabis with diverse vomiting syndromes. The study, published in 2024 in the journal Gastroenterology 1, discusses the effects of THC on the central nervous system and the gut, particularly in relation to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and other vomiting syndromes. While the study does not specifically address the relationship between marijuana use and pancreatitis, it provides insight into the potential effects of cannabis on the gastrointestinal system. Some key points from the study include:
- The activation of CB1 receptors by THC can affect gastrointestinal secretions, emesis, and appetite control.
- The endocannabinoid system plays a role in modulating neurotransmitter release and sensory receptors, which can impact gut function.
- CHS is a disorder of gut-brain interaction characterized by cyclic vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain, often associated with prolonged cannabis use. Given the current evidence, it is essential to approach the potential link between marijuana use and pancreatitis with caution. If you experience symptoms of pancreatitis, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, and use marijuana regularly, it is crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance. However, based on the available evidence, marijuana use is not a established cause of pancreatitis 1.
From the Research
Marijuana and Pancreatitis
- The relationship between marijuana use and pancreatitis is complex, with some studies suggesting a potential link between the two, while others find no significant association 2, 3, 4.
- A 2019 study found that concomitant cannabis and abusive alcohol use were associated with reduced incidence of acute and chronic pancreatitis (aOR: 0.50 [0.48 to 0.53] and 0.77 [0.71 to 0.84]) 2.
- However, another study published in 2017 reported 26 cases of cannabis-induced acute pancreatitis, with 18 patients experiencing increased cannabis use prior to the onset of pancreatitis 3.
- A 2018 study found that cannabis use was not an independent risk factor for persistent SIRS, AKI, ARDS, pancreatic necrosis, mortality, ICU admission, length of stay, in-hospital infections, nor recurrent AP 4.
- A case report published in 2024 described a rare instance of acute pancreatitis secondary to marijuana use, highlighting the importance of recognizing potential GI complications resulting from cannabis use 5.
Key Findings
- Cannabis use may be associated with reduced incidence of alcohol-associated pancreatitis 2.
- Cannabis use has been linked to increased incidence of chronic pancreatitis in non-alcohol-non-gallstones users (aOR: 1.28 [1.14 to 1.44]) 2.
- Cannabis-induced acute pancreatitis is a possible risk factor, particularly in young patients under the age of 35 years 3.
- Cannabis use did not independently impact AP severity or mortality in a large retrospective cohort study 4.