A recent study led by Dr. Michael Hsu, an addiction psychiatrist at UCLA, presents alarming findings regarding medical cannabis. The report reveals “insufficient evidence” to support many of the claimed benefits of medical marijuana, while highlighting significant risks that may outweigh any potential advantages. This research is particularly relevant as medical cannabis becomes increasingly popular in the United States, with legal status in 40 states and Washington, D.C.
Many Americans use medical cannabis to manage chronic pain, anxiety, sleep issues, and a variety of other health concerns. According to surveys, nearly 90% of US adults support its use when prescribed by a physician. Yet, Hsu emphasizes the need for patients to engage in honest discussions with their healthcare providers regarding the actual scientific evidence surrounding medical cannabis.
Research Findings and Implications
The comprehensive review analyzed over 2,500 scientific papers published from January 2010 to September 2025. It compared cannabis available at dispensaries with pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which are FDA-approved for specific medical uses. The researchers confirmed that these medications are effective for certain conditions, including alleviating nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, enhancing appetite in patients with HIV/AIDS, and reducing severe pediatric seizure disorders.
Despite these findings, the evidence supporting the use of medical cannabis for pain management is lacking. Hsu’s team found no solid clinical evidence to support its effectiveness for acute pain, even though more than half of users seek it for this purpose. Current medical guidelines do not recommend cannabis as a first-line treatment for pain.
The review also noted weak or inconclusive evidence regarding medical cannabis’s effectiveness for conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, Parkinson’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
In contrast, the potential dangers associated with medical cannabis usage are becoming increasingly evident. Long-term studies indicate that adolescents using high-potency cannabis have significantly higher rates of psychotic symptoms, affecting 12.4% of users compared to 7.1% of those using lower-potency products. Furthermore, the likelihood of developing generalized anxiety disorder is notably higher among young users of high-potency cannabis.
The study highlighted that approximately 29% of medical cannabis users meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder, a condition characterized by a compulsive urge to consume cannabis, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. The Cleveland Clinic defines cannabis use disorder as primarily involving THC-containing products, with individuals starting before age 18 at a substantially higher risk of developing dependence.
Recommendations for Healthcare Providers
In light of these findings, Hsu and his colleagues recommend that healthcare providers screen patients for cardiovascular disease and psychotic disorders before considering THC-containing products. They also stress the importance of evaluating potential drug interactions and weighing the risks against the benefits when prescribing medical cannabis.
“Clear guidance from clinicians is essential to support safe, evidence-based decision-making when discussing medical cannabis with their patients,” Hsu stated.
The researchers acknowledged limitations in their study, noting that it was not a systematic review and did not include a formal risk-of-bias assessment. Some of the included research was observational and could be influenced by confounding factors, meaning the findings may not be applicable to every patient.
Hsu emphasized the need for further research to fully understand the benefits and risks of medical cannabis. “By supporting more rigorous studies, we can provide clearer guidance and improve clinical care for patients,” he concluded.
These critical findings emerge as speculation grows regarding potential changes to cannabis classification at the federal level. Currently, the federal government categorizes cannabis as a Schedule I drug, alongside substances like heroin and LSD. However, reports suggest that there may soon be a shift to reclassifying cannabis to Schedule III, a move that could acknowledge its medical potential while reducing perceived risks.
As the landscape of medical cannabis continues to evolve, this study serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of evidence-based practice in the healthcare community.
