In Summary

A review of preclinical research studies has revealed to possible beneficial effects of cannabidiol on alcohol-related outcomes. It was found that cannabidiol (CBD) is able to lessen alcohol consumption although the mechanism is not well understood. CBD may also protect consumers from the negative effects of alcohol use such as liver and brain damage. It is likely that CBD provides these protective effects through its modulation of inflammatory processes. It is recommended that further research is conducted in order to validate these findings and expand upon the knowledge of how CBD interacts with other common substances. 
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As cannabis-based products become more widely accepted among the medical community and within society it is imperative that the interactions between cannabis and other drugs are known. Those who wish to use cannabis for certain ailments but are already on other medications may consume cannabis and experience negative side-effects due to the interaction of those drugs. Cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids need to be modeled alongside other common medications so that physicians can safely recommend medications and so that pharmacists are able to accurately advise customers when they pick up prescriptions. Research is needed to ensure public safety in this time of evolving medications. 

In Summary

​A recent study has revealed that brief interventions given by primary care physicians can reduce alcohol and drug abuse among at-risk adolescents. This study aimed to address only alcohol and cannabis use disorders in teenagers who already reported the misuse of such substances. Participants were randomly assigned to receive an intervention from their physician or assigned as controls and then asked about their substance use habits 12 months later. Those who received an intervention reported a marked decrease in substance use through self-reporting and chemical screening. This research suggests that pediatricians and other general practitioners should speak candidly about the risks of substance use disorders with their patients. 
Pieces like the featured article highlight the importance of responsible cannabis use. Cannabis is becoming more socially acceptable as states continue to put forth policies that legalize medical and recreational use. Like alcohol and other drugs, cannabis should remain a semi-controlled substance whose availability is restricted by age or other factors so that at-risk youth are unable or less likely to abuse its benefits. State laws currently decide who has access to cannabis but as at-home cultivators become more prominent it will be necessary to ensure the security of those plants to prevent adolescents from misusing plants grown by family or friends.