Cannabis Use, Abuse, and Dependence

The purpose of this course is to allow healthcare professionals to effectively identify, diagnose, treat, and provide appropriate referrals for patients with cannabis use disorders. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

• 1. Review the history of cannabis use and define the concepts of cannabis abuse and dependence.

• 2. Discuss the epidemiology of cannabis use in the United States, including treatment utilization and risk factors for cannabis use disorders.

• 3. Outline the pharmacology of cannabis.

• 4. Review the established and investigational therapeutic uses of cannabis and delta-9-THC.

• 5. Identify acute effects of cannabis ingestion on both physical and psychological systems.

• 6. Describe long-term effects of cannabis ingestion and conditions associated with cannabis use, including the associated withdrawal syndrome.

• 7. Discuss the prognosis and treatment approaches for individuals who misuse cannabis, including considerations for non-English proficient patients.

This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.