What are the cannabis-related infections?

From the Guidelines

Cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of various infections, particularly respiratory infections such as aspergillosis and tuberculosis, due to compromised immune function and exposure to contaminants. The evidence suggests that cannabis use can lead to a range of health problems, including mental health issues, chronic respiratory problems, and cardiovascular events 1.

Infections Associated with Cannabis Use

• Respiratory infections: aspergillosis, tuberculosis
• Invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised individuals
• Other infections: not specifically mentioned in the provided evidence, but potentially related to compromised immune function

Prevention and Treatment

• Prevention strategies: using clean equipment, avoiding sharing smoking devices, considering alternative consumption methods like edibles, and purchasing from regulated sources when possible
• Treatment: depends on the specific infection, but may include antifungal medications (such as fluconazole, voriconazole, or amphotericin B) or antibiotics (such as azithromycin, doxycycline, or levofloxacin) for 1-2 weeks for mild cases or 4-6 weeks for severe infections
• Immunocompromised patients may require longer treatment courses

High-Risk Groups

• Immunocompromised individuals: those with HIV, cancer, or on immunosuppressive medications
• Adolescents and young adults: may be at risk for adverse psychosocial events, such as major depression and suicidal ideation, due to cannabis use 1
• Older adults: may be at higher risk for behavioral health issues, including anxiety and depression, and may experience acute cannabis toxicity, including sedation, obtundation, and myocardial ischemia or infarction 1

From the Research

Cannabis-Related Infections

• Cannabis use has been associated with an increased risk of acquiring or transmitting viral infections, including:
  • Human immune deficiency virus (HIV) 2
  • Hepatitis C infection (HCV) 2
  • Human T-cell lymphotropic type I and II virus (HTLV-I/II) 2
• Cannabis smoke has been shown to have an inhibitory effect on the immune system, which may increase the risk of infections 3
• The use of cannabis has also been linked to respiratory tract effects, including:
  • Increased cough and sputum production 3
  • Hyperinflation and upper lobe emphysematous changes 3
• However, it does not appear that marijuana smoke contributes to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 3

Immune System Impairment

• Cannabis use may impair immune function, making users more susceptible to infections 2
• The exact mechanisms by which cannabis impairs immune function are not fully understood and require further research 2

Other Health Effects

• Cannabis use has been associated with a range of other health effects, including:
  • Respiratory and cardiovascular toxicity 4
  • Psychiatric conditions 4
  • Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome 4