Cannabis use could lead to mania symptoms

Cannabis use is linked to the onset and exacerbation of mania symptoms, finds a study.

Mania symptoms are part of bipolar disorder and can include feelings of persistent elation, heightened energy and hyperactivity and a reduced need for sleep.

The researchers looked at a number of previous studies and concluded that cannabis use preceded the onset of mania symptoms.

"The observed tendency for cannabis use to precede or coincide with rather than follow mania symptoms, and the more specific association between cannabis use and new onset manic symptoms, suggests potential causal influences from cannabis use to the development of mania," said lead author Steven Marwaha from the University of Warwick in Britain.

For the study, the researchers carried out a review of scientific literature examining the effect of cannabis use. The literature sampled 2,391 individuals who had experienced mania symptoms.

Mania can also make people feel angry and aggressive with extreme symptoms including becoming delusional or hearing voices.

The study appeared in the Journal of Affective Disorders.