This lecture is designed to address a critical and contemporary clinical challenge: understanding the impact of cannabis and its constituent cannabinoids on individuals with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The session is structured into five segments, each offering insights into different aspects of this multifaceted issue:

1) Cannabis Pharmacology and Policy Evolution: We begin by delving into the fundamental pharmacological properties of cannabis and its cannabinoids. This segment will also cover the rapidly evolving landscape of cannabinoid regulation and policy changes across various U.S. states, setting the stage for understanding the broader implications of cannabis use in clinical settings.

2) Addressing OUD Treatment Challenges: The second segment shifts focus to the complexities in treating OUD. We will explore why and how non-opioid substances, including cannabinoids, have been viewed by some as potential adjunctive interventions in OUD management, highlighting the gaps in current treatment approaches and the quest for more effective strategies.

3) Cannabinoids: Preclinical and Human Study Insights: This part of the lecture will present an overview of the latest findings from both preclinical and human studies. The discussion will revolve around the potential pain-relieving properties of cannabinoids, their putative role in suppressing opioid withdrawal symptoms, and their potential opioid-sparing effects, providing a scientific basis for the investigation of their risk/benefit profile in persons with OUD.

4) Cannabinoid Effects in OUD - New Findings: Here, we will focus on groundbreaking data specifically related to persons with OUD. Special attention will be given to recent research on the acute effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, derived from randomized, placebo-controlled studies conducted in our laboratory.

5) Moderating Factors and Clinical Implications: The final segment of the lecture will discuss potential moderators influencing the response to cannabinoids in individuals with OUD. It aims to equip clinicians and researchers with nuanced insights and practical considerations for applying this knowledge in real-world scenarios.

In short, this lecture seeks to be an accessible educational intervention on intersection of cannabis, cannabinoids, and OUD, offering valuable perspectives for healthcare professionals and researchers engaged in this rapidly evolving field.

1. Grasp Cannabis Pharmacology and Regulatory Changes: Gain an understanding of the basic pharmacological properties of cannabis and its cannabinoids, and stay informed about recent policy changes affecting their clinical use, particularly in opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment.
2. Understand the State of the Evidence on Potential Pain-Relieving, Opioid-Withdrawal Suppressing, and Opioid-Sparing Effects of Cannabinoids. This objective includes an exploration of both preclinical and human studies to provide a well-rounded view of current evidence in this area.
3. Apply Research Insights on Cannabinoids in OUD: Understand and apply recent findings from studies on the effects of cannabinoids, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), in OUD, focusing on clinical implications and factors influencing patient response to these treatments.
4. Identify and Manage Problematic Patterns of Cannabis Use in Persons with OUD: Develop skills to recognize and address problematic cannabis use and cannabis use disorder in individuals with OUD, integrating strategies for evaluation and intervention that complement OUD treatment.

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