The Impact of Cannabis Use Disorder on Critical Illness

Cannabis use is increasingly common among patients presenting for medical care. Its implications for intensive care unit (ICU) management remain unclear. Cannabis has widespread downstream effects on nearly all organ systems, some of which are directly applicable to ICU providers. The relatively limited scientific knowledge and vast number of active compounds in botanical cannabis emphasize the need for further research to better identify and characterize their impact on intensive care management. Here, we review available preclinical and clinical evidence that may impact intensive care management of patients with acute or chronic adverse effects of cannabis usage.