Regular and intensive use of cannabis and related problems: Some results from literature and from the 2002 REITOX reports (CT P1) Roland Simon Lisbon, TDI Annual Expert Meeting, September 2004

Contents 2/14 Problematic use of cannabis is defined in different studies through:  Concept “Frequent or regular use”  Some results from recent research: framework  Results from NFP Reports 2002: Prevalence, Treatment  Conclusions

Antecedent factors of PCU 3/14

Chronic effects of PCU 4/14

Secondary effects of PCU 5/14

Prevalence 6/14

Clients characteristics I 7/14

Clients characteristics II 8/14

Overview: Situation  Prevalence: - Dependence: 0,2-3% - Misuse3% - Frequent Use1-6% - Regular Use4-10%  Characteristics - Msle years old - problems with school and social achievements - psychiatric comorbidity: anxiety, depression, psychosis - multiple drug use 9/14

Treatment demands 10/14

Treatment needs and referrals 11/14

Special treatments offered 12/14

Overview Treatment  Referrals: - Justice plays a big role: 20-25% - Majority is self-referred, partly motivated by the family - Frequent Use1-6% - Regular Use4-10%  Trends - Up to 50% ( most countries: 10-20%) of out-patiente clients come mainly for cannabis - Increase in most of the Member States over the last years  Treatment needs - No mix with opiate addicts - Little specific treatment programmes, additional elements very important 13/14

Conclusions In relation to the topic cannabis in treatment - there seem to be a relevant and increasing number of clients asking for help - while cannabis is the main substance in these cases, often other drugs are used as well - additional aspects (school achievements, psychiatric problems..) play a import role in treating this group - treatment offered in most countries looks less developed and sophisticated than for heroin addicts In relation to TDI and “Problematic drug use” - common definitions needed for this client group - possible basis: frequency of use, consequences of use 14/14