What is cannabis use disorder?

Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a mental disorder that can develop with long-term cannabis use. It’s characterized by a problematic pattern of use that leads to significant distress or difficulty in daily life.

To be diagnosed, at least two of the following signs must occur within a year:

• Using more cannabis than intended, or for longer periods.
• Struggling to cut back or control usage.
• Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from cannabis.
• Strong cravings to use cannabis.
• Neglecting work, school, or home responsibilities due to use.
• Continuing use despite social or relationship problems caused by cannabis.
• Giving up important activities because of cannabis use.
• Using cannabis in physically risky situations.
• Persisting in use despite knowing it’s causing physical or mental harm.
• Building tolerance, needing more cannabis to feel the effects.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using cannabis.

CUD severity is classified as mild, moderate, or severe, based on how many of these signs are present.

Early Remission: A person is considered in early remission if they have abstained from cannabis for 3 to 12 months after previously meeting the criteria for CUD, although craving may persist.

How is cannabis use detected in laboratory tests?

Laboratory tests can identify cannabis use, but results should always be interpreted alongside clinical assessments.

• Common lab tests analyze urine, blood, saliva, or hair for THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis.
• A positive test confirms that cannabis has been used, but it doesn’t necessarily mean someone has a CUD or is currently intoxicated.
• Heavy or frequent users take longer to clear THC from their system compared to occasional users.
• In some cases, additional tests like brain scans or blood tests may be needed to rule out other health conditions.