The impact of cannabis use in otorhinolaryngology
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.987Keywords:
Cannabis, adverse effects, superior respiratory tract, OtorhinolaryngologyAbstract
Introduction: Cannabis is currently the most widely planted, trafficked, and consumed illicit drug in today's society. Its use has increased substantially in the last few decades, mainly in developed countries where its legalization has contributed to an increasingly growth in the number of cannabis users worldwide. The benefits of medical cannabis have been the primary drivers for its legalization however its adverse effects cannot be ignored. Since inhalation is the most common route of administration it is extremely important to try to understand the possible impact of cannabis use in Otorhinolaryngology.
Methods: Narrative assessment for relevant review, opinion and meta-analyses articles, in English, using PubMed, published in the last 10 years and in several medical journals plus official data available in the World Health Organization site.
Discussion: The benefits and advantages of medical cannabis are evident however we need to be aware of the risks related to its use. The most common problems related to its use are worsening of chronic rhinosinusitis, tinnitus, vocal cords alterations e head and neck cancers.
Conclusion: Cannabis consumers are expected to grow in the near future. Since inhalation is the most common route of administration the problems related to the superior respiratory tract are also expected to grow. Therefore it is necessary to stimulate investigations in this area in order to have more concrete evidence about this subject.
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