Based on the findings from the multicenter retrospective study on the impact of marijuana legalization on cannabis-related visits to the emergency department visits in Boston, MA, what are some factors contributing to increased utilization of marijuana in ages > 59 years?
Consider to be part of the “baby-boomer” generation (born 1946-1964), older patients are more likely to suffer from chronic disease such as cancers, anxiety, loss of appetite, weight loss, and sleeping disorders. Another factor accounting for increased utilization is the re-engaging in recreational drug use after retirement, ultimately accounting both the medicinal and recreational use approaches of marijuana.
Tolan NV, Terebo T, Chai PR, Erickson TB, Hayes BD, Uljon SN, Petrides AK, Demetriou CA, Melanson SEF. Impact of marijuana legalization on cannabis-related visits to the emergency department. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2021 Dec 22:1-11
Contributed by: Dawn Sollee, PharmD DABAT & Molly Stott, PharmD on behalf of Florida/USVI Poison Information Center-Jacksonville