There is not much discussion about “Cannabis-Induced Psychosis” despite the clinical evidence of its existence. Health insurers and Health Maintenance Organizations undoubtedly have amassed data about the incidence of and expenditures for cannabis-related psychiatric and medical disorders (see cannabis-induced hyperemesis, myocarditis, pericarditis, obesity, respiratory disorders).
Marijuana use is associated with an increased risk for the development of psychosis and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Although this risk was recognized long ago there’s an ongoing chicken-and-egg debate exculpating cannabis per se by suggesting that subclinical schizophrenics are more inclined to use it hence unmasking their pre-existing psychotic tendency. Cannabis doesn’t cause psychosis, people do!
So where have the health insurance companies been? How much do they spend annually for the treatment of cannabis-induced psychotic illnesses? What are their projected yearly expenditures? Have they observed an increase in psychiatric admissions in persons who test positive for cannabis? How about in cannabis users simultaneously taking Adderall or other psychostimulants? Are they simply investing in more rehabs, detox facilities, and drug companies making anti-psychotic medications? Does cannabis use increase or decrease their profit margins?
