Daijiworld Media Network – New York
New York, Jan 13: A standardised dose unit for cannabis could help establish clearer guidelines for safer consumption and reduce the risk of addiction, according to a new international study, offering a framework similar to the “standard drink” used to regulate alcohol intake.
The research, published in the journal Addiction on January 12, highlights the lack of clear benchmarks for cannabis use, despite its growing acceptance and widespread consumption. Researchers noted that nearly 30 per cent of cannabis users develop cannabis use disorder (CUD), with those starting at a younger age facing a significantly higher risk.
Unlike alcohol, cannabis consumption is difficult to measure due to varying product potency and subjective measures such as “one joint” or “one edible.” To address this, the study used a standard unit of five milligrams (mg) of THC — the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis — a benchmark first introduced by the US National Institute on Drug Abuse in 2021 for research purposes.
The year-long observational study tracked cannabis use among 150 participants, including adults in their twenties and adolescents, recording product type, potency and frequency. This data was converted into weekly THC intake based on the standard unit.
The findings revealed that among adults, the risk of developing CUD increased at around eight units per week (40mg THC), with those consuming 13 or more units facing a higher likelihood of moderate to severe disorder. Adolescents were found to be more vulnerable, with risk increasing at just six units per week and rising sharply with even small additional intake.
Researchers said the results underline the need for harm-reduction strategies rather than promoting cannabis use as “safe.” “No level of cannabis use is completely risk-free, but clearer information on THC intake could help regular users make healthier choices,” the study’s lead author said.
Medical experts welcomed the findings, noting that measurable limits could help both users and healthcare professionals better identify risky behaviour. However, others cautioned that implementing a universal standard may be challenging due to the wide range of cannabis products, methods of consumption and differences in THC absorption.
Despite these hurdles, the study marks a significant step towards developing clearer public health guidance on cannabis use, particularly as legal access expands in many parts of the world.