About one-third of people experiencing a first episode of psychosis have used cannabis. Some meet criteria for cannabis-induced psychotic disorder (CIPD), which is thought to have better outcomes than primary psychotic disorders. This review of 12 studies from 2002 to 2019 found that CIPD appears distinct from primary psychotic disorder with cannabis use. Patients with CIPD tend to have less severe overall psychotic symptoms, greater insight, more visual hallucinations, depersonalization, derealization, more intense manic symptoms, and hostility. They are more likely to have a close relative with a substance use disorder but less likely to have one with a psychotic disorder. However, 25-45% of those initially treated for CIPD later meet criteria for a chronic psychotic disorder, and ongoing cannabis use predicts poor prognosis regardless of initial diagnosis.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychiatric condition that can become chronic and disabling. Psychotherapy is currently one of the most effective treatments, but incomplete responses and frequent relapses prompt the search for alternatives. This review examined 33 scientific articles on combining psychotherapy with MDMA for PTSD. The studies fell into two categories: those testing whether MDMA-assisted psychotherapy is useful for PTSD and those exploring the mechanisms behind the combination. The potential therapeutic effect of MDMA, especially with psychotherapy, raises controversies, limitations, and opportunities. Few advanced-stage studies exist, and the substance's addictive potential and current controversies limit its use, though ongoing research may make it a valid future option.