The Potential Impact of Legalization of Recreational Cannabis among Current Users: A Qualitative Inquiry.

Given legislative initiatives in Rhode Island pertaining to consideration of cannabis legalization for recreational purpose, a qualitative inquiry was conducted regarding anticipated changes in use among recreational cannabis users in Rhode Island. Five focus groups were conducted with recreational cannabis users (N = 31; 6-7 per group). Participants were queried about anticipated impact of legalization on their use patterns. Themes were identified using applied thematic analysis. Participants discussed (1) a desire to maintain the status quo due to satisfaction with local cannabis regulations and their current use behaviors, (2) how and why cannabis use may change, including pros and cons of legalization, and (3) anticipated changes in purchasing behavior given display and legitimacy of legal dispensaries. While participants anticipate use levels and prevalence may remain relatively stable following legislation changes, findings suggest possible changes related to mode of administration and location of use. Public health concerns exist related to high-risk potencies and use of cannabis in edible form; therefore, trialing of new cannabis products has important clinical implications should legalization occur in Rhode Island.

A pilot study to examine the acceptability and health effects of electronic cigarettes in HIV-positive smokers.

INTRODUCTION: Some HIV-positive smokers report ambivalence about quitting. Switching to electronic cigarettes (ECs) may be a viable option to reduce the negative health effects for smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit smoking combustible cigarettes (CCs). This study examined the acceptability and health-related effects of ECs in HIV-positive smokers who were not seeking smoking cessation treatment. METHODS: HIV-positive smokers (N = 19) were enrolled and followed for 12 weeks. Cartridge-based ECs were provided at baseline, and E-liquid was provided weekly for 8 weeks. At baseline, weeks 1-8, and week 12, EC and CC use, cardiopulmonary function, respiratory symptoms, and carbon monoxide (CO) levels were measured. RESULTS: At week 8, cigarettes per day (CPD) were reduced by more than 80%, with reduction maintained at week 12 (p's < .001). Cigarette dependence scores were 40% lower at week 8 than at baseline (p <  .001). Seven (36.8%) participants reported transitioning completely from CCs to ECs. Mean CO decreased significantly from BL to week 8 (p < .05) and remained significantly lower at week 12 (p <  .001). Intention to quit increased significantly over time. CONCLUSIONS: Switching from CCs to ECs in HIV-positive smokers who are not ready to quit smoking in the next 30 days appears to be feasible. Beneficial effects were seen, such as reduced CPD, reduced CO and CC dependence, and increased motivation to quit. ECs may be promising as a harm reduction approach among HIV-positive smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit smoking.

Marijuana as a Substitute for Prescription Medications: A Qualitative Study.

Background: Over the past few decades in the United States, marijuana for medical purposes has become increasingly prevalent. Initial qualitative and epidemiological research suggests that marijuana may be a promising substitute for traditional pharmacotherapies. Objectives: This qualitative study examined perceptions relating to (1) using medical marijuana in comparison to other prescription medications and (2) user perception of policy issues that limit adoption of medical marijuana use. Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with Rhode Island medical marijuana card holders (N = 25). The interviews followed a semi-structured agenda designed to collect information from participants about their reasons for, and perceptions of, medical marijuana use. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and de-identified. Qualitative codes were developed from the agenda and emergent topics raised by the participants. Results: Three themes emerged related to medical marijuana use, including (1) comparison of medical marijuana to other medications (i.e., better and/or fewer side effects than prescription medications, improves quality of life), (2) substitution of marijuana for other medications (i.e., in addition to or instead of), and (3) how perception of medical marijuana policy impacts use (i.e., stigma, travel, cost, and lack of instruction regarding use). Conclusions: Several factors prevent pervasive medical marijuana use, including stigma, cost, and the inability for healthcare providers to relay instructions regarding dosing, strain, and method of use. Findings suggest that medical patients consider marijuana to be a viable alternative for opioids and other prescription medications, though certain policy barriers inhibit widespread implementation of marijuana as a treatment option.