Cannabis-Induced Gastrointestinal Tract Symptoms in the Adult Population: A Systematic Review

Results: The search yielded 598 results, of which 13 were deemed relevant and underwent further review. These included two systematic reviews, one retrospective cohort study, one retrospective chart review, two cross-sectional studies, one survey, and six case reports. The Cochrane Risk Tool for bias analysis was applied where relevant. The total number of people in the studies selected for analysis was 79, 779. Twelve out of the thirteen included studies reported some type of gastrointestinal tract symptoms experienced in medical and/or recreational cannabis users ranging from nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain to adult intussusception.

Conclusion: Potential limitations include small sample sizes, variation in research methodologies, varied studied designs, and limited availability of data on specific populations such as geriatric users. Further research is warranted to add to current evidence pertaining to this emerging topic of significance, fill the broad knowledge gaps and contribute to evidence-based guidelines for healthcare professionals, ensuring safe prescribing practices and provision of quality care.