Cannabidiol (CBD)-only use in Pregnancy and Perinatal Outcomes

University Of Colorado Denver, Aurora CO

Investigators

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Prenatal cannabis use is prevalent and associated with several adverse consequences for the mother and offspring. Cannabis includes many compounds, including cannabidiol (CBD; a phytocannabinoid of the flower cannabis sativa) and associations between specific cannabis compounds and maternal/child outcomes are lacking. Specifically, little is known about CBD-only product use during pregnancy, despite the increase in availability and acceptability of CBD over the past decade. We address this gap by addressing the following aims: Aim 1: Estimate the prevalence of CBD use overall and by trimester in a clinical sample pregnant women receiving prenatal care at the University of Colorado; Aim 2: Characterize women who use CBD and/or cannabis during pregnancy (socio-demographics, mental health profiles, physical health concerns and cannabinoid use behaviors and risk perception); and Exploratory Aim: Describe the pregnancy- and birth-related outcomes associated with prenatal CBD use. Using an observational study design, we will study pregnant individuals in their third trimester receiving care at University of Colorado perinatal clinics (n=800). All participants will complete an electronically delivered survey, donate a one-time blood sample for analysis of cannabinoids (via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry), and consent to chart review of electronic medical records (EMR) once their baby is born. Participants will be categorized into one of four groups: a) using CBD-only products, b) using cannabis, c) using both CBD-only products and cannabis, and d) using neither substance during pregnancy. We will assess prevalence of CBD-only product and cannabis use during pregnancy both at any time and by trimester based on both the survey responses and blood sample analysis [Aim 1]. Further, the survey will assess participants’ use patterns, mental and physical health concerns, demographics, and pregnancy-related concerns [Aim 2]. We will review EMRs of all participants after the birth of their children to understand pregnancy- and birth-related outcomes associated with CBD-only product use, whole cannabis use, and CBD-only product plus cannabis use [Exploratory Aim]. Understanding associations between CBD and pregnancy- and birth-related outcomes will be an important step in identifying potential safety concerns related to CBD use in pregnancy. The PI works with an experienced team of mentors (Drs. Joseph Sakai, Susan Mikulich, Ashley Brooks-Russell, M. Camille Hoffman, and Sharon Hunter) and will pursue training relevant to this proposal including: (1) clinical research skills (survey design, study implementation, grant writing), (2) cannabinoids’ effects on early human development (3) assessment of perinatal and infant research outcomes, (4) statistical expertise in longitudinal analysis, causal analysis, (5) research presentation skills, (6) manuscript writing skills, and (7) engagement in professional development opportunities. The training, mentorship, collaborative relationships, and results of this project will serve as important steps to pursue an R01 grant and transition to research independence.