“Recent studies in adults report symptom relief with marijuana use in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
We assessed the prevalence, pattern, effects and adverse effects of marijuana use in young adults with IBD.
We conducted a prospective questionnaire survey study at a pediatric IBD clinic. All patients (18 to 21 years of age) answered anonymous questionnaires about demographics, IBD, medications and marijuana use.
Overall, 98% of patients supported legalization of marijuana and 85% were interested in using medical marijuana if it became legally available.
We found a high rate of marijuana use in our cohort of young adults with IBD. Majority of users report symptom improvement but do not inform physicians. Future well controlled studies are necessary to assess role of marijuana in IBD therapy.”