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Research type
Research Study
Full title
Ratifying self-reported cannabis Use and withdrawal with Novel and Objective biomarkers to Understand Triggers of acute psychosis
IRAS ID
349453
Contact name
Edward Chesney
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Cannabis and Psychosis
Cannabis use is common among people experiencing their first episode of psychosis and those with schizophrenia. Research shows that patients who use cannabis have more severe symptoms, a higher risk of relapse, and a lower quality of life.Cannabis Withdrawal and Illness Onset
Stopping heavy, long-term cannabis use suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, low mood, headache, and restlessness. These symptoms usually peak between 2 and 6 days after stopping and can be severe in up to half of those affected. Recently, there have been increasing reports of psychosis triggered by cannabis withdrawal. In a study of health records in South London, 68 cases of acute psychosis linked to cannabis withdrawal were identified over 15 years. Since cannabis withdrawal is often unrecognized by clinicians, the actual number of cases might be much higher. We want to complete a prospective study to investigate this further.Withdrawal in Inpatients
In another study of 1,500 patients admitted to inpatient wards in South London, those using cannabis were more likely to need intensive psychiatric care 3 to 5 days after admission, aligning with the peak severity of withdrawal symptoms. We therefore also plan to assess withdrawal symptoms in patients after hospital admission.Biomarkers of Cannabis Withdrawal
To verify self-reported cannnabis abstinence we will collect objective biomarkers: urine, blood and saliva tests.The Study
Participants (with psychosis and cannabis dependence) will be recruited at local A&Es and psychiatry wards. Each participant can complete two assessments, one at the time of admission, the other a few days later. They will complete questionnaires about their symptoms and drug use, and provide urine, blood and saliva samples. The study is expected to last for about 2 years and is funded by the Maudsley Charity.REC name
North West - Haydock Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0203
Date of REC Opinion
30 Jul 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion