GPs issue warning of 'profound and lasting' adverse impact of cannabis use

That intervention also comes ahead of the final meeting of the Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use, which takes place this weekend.

The assembly will then compile a report for the Oireachtas on recommendations to reduce harm caused by illicit drugs use.

In a statement by its medical director Diarmuid Quinlan, the ICGP said while evidence indicates potential therapeutic benefits, there are “notable public health and health impacts” linked with cannabis use.

The doctors’ organisation also said there need to be campaigns highlighting the “adverse health effects” of the drug.

It also said there needs to be a multi-agency, evidence-based approach, “to further develop and implement policy to address drug use in Ireland”.

The ICGP discourages cannabis use, especially in high-risk populations such as youth, those with a personal or family history of mental disorder, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding,” the doctors said.

They also called on the HSE and the Department of Health to gather better data on short-term and long-term impacts.

This could include analysis of reasons for going to hospital emergency departments and prevalence of psychiatric and addictive disorders, including cannabis-use disorder.

The ICGP also said that doctors want “accessible, comprehensive, and evidence-based treatment” for people with health problems related to cannabis use.

“The ICGP supports public-health based strategies, rather than incarceration, with respect to individuals possessing small quantities of cannabis for personal use,” the statement said.

In relation to medicinal use, the doctors said: “There is a need for further high-quality research into the safety and effectiveness of cannabinoid-based medicinal products.”

It is understood the ICGP decided to issue the statement following acceptance of a motion on the topic proposed by three GPs, including Ray Walley, during the ICGP AGM in May.