Characteristics associated with synthetic cannabinoid use among patients treated in a public psychiatric emergency setting

Background: Growing evidence of adverse outcomes following synthetic cannabinoid use has engendered interest into populations at risk. The existing literature reports that synthetic cannabinoid use is predominant among young, white males. However, reports from local Departments of Health have found contrary evidence, showing that synthetic cannabinoid use is prevalent in populations other than those of young, white men. Objectives: This study sought to examine sociodemographic characteristics associated with self-reported synthetic cannabinoid use among a clinical psychiatric population within a public hospital in New York City. Methods: A cross-sectional medical record review was conducted on synthetic cannabinoid users and non-users in an emergency psychiatric setting. A total of 948 patients who presented at the emergency psychiatric setting in 2014 were included in this sample, 110 (11.6%) of whom were synthetic cannabinoid users. Logistic regressions were used to determine the sociodemographic correlates of synthetic cannabinoid use. Results: The most prominent correlate of synthetic cannabinoid use was homelessness/residing in a shelter during time of treatment (AOR = 17.77, 95% CI = 9.74-32.5). Male (AOR = 5.37, 95% CI = 2.04-14.1), non-white (AOR = 2.74, 95% CI = 1.36-5.54), and younger age (AOR = .961, 95% CI = .940-.980) were also significant correlates of synthetic cannabinoid use. Conclusion: Synthetic cannabinoid use among the homeless and mentally ill is a growing public health concern, representing a population with unique clinical and social needs. Areas and populations with high rates of homelessness should be targeted for synthetic cannabinoid prevention and treatment efforts, particularly in urban and racial/ethnic minority communities.