“We’ed” Better Work Together to Address Cannabis Use in Pregnancy

Authors:
Courtney Cameron, PharmD, BCACP

Reviewers:
Leah Sera, PharmD, MA, BCPS
Stuart T Haines, PharmD, BCACP, BCPS

Citation:
Metz TD, Allshouse AA, McMillin GA, et al. Cannabis Exposure and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Related to Placental Function. JAMA. 2023;330(22):2191-2199. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.21146

The Problem

Over the last several decades, the popularity of cannabis (aka marijuana, weed) has increased significantly, and the recognition of medical benefits is evolving. Recent proposed federal legislation would reclassify cannabis as a Schedule III rather than a Schedule I substance.¹ Cannabis is often celebrated in popular culture as a relaxation-promoting, pain-relieving, harmless substance, and its use among young adults and pregnant women is increasing steadily.^2,3 By one national survey, use among pregnant women of any age in the past month increased 62% from 2002 to 2014.³ Despite the explosion in popularity and impending federal rescheduling, many available products have unregulated potency and purity.  Furthermore, clinical studies regarding the health outcomes of cannabis use during pregnancy are limited.¹