Work

New onset psychosis following cannabis discontinuation: A case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Substance-induced psychoses are brief psychotic syndromes triggered by substance use that can persist for days to weeks after substance discontinuation. With the rising popularity of cannabis and cannabis-related products, including synthetic cannabinoids, the incidence of cannabis-related psychotic episodes may continue to rise, particularly among geriatric populations where less is known about cannabis effects on psychotic symptoms. Objective This case study examines the emergence of psychotic symptoms following abrupt cannabis cessation in a 67-year-old female with pre-existing anxiety and depression. Case presentation A 67-year-old Caucasian female developed new-onset paranoid delusions and suicidal ideation approximately four weeks after discontinuing six years of heavy cannabis use (3 grams daily). She required two hospitalizations with treatment including risperidone (Risperdal) and escitalopram. Complete resolution of psychotic symptoms occurred with short-term antipsychotic treatment, which was successfully discontinued after four months. Conclusions This case contributes to growing evidence suggesting a potential link between cannabis withdrawal and new-onset psychosis, among vulnerable populations with underlying mental health conditions. The successful resolution with short-term treatment and absence of recurrence after medication discontinuation highlights the temporary nature of this phenomenon.

Source: Psychiatry Research Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.psycr.2025.100301

Authors: Naing Bajaj, David T. Lardier, Stephen Lewis, Snehal R Bhatt

Institutions: University of New Mexico, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center

Language: English

Topic: Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $950