A systematic review of the label accuracy of cannabinoid-based products in regulated markets: is what's on the label what's in the product?. (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oldfield, Karen; Ryan, John; Doppen, Marjan; Kung, Stacey; Braithwaite, Irene; Newton-Howes, Giles
• Is Part Of: Australasian psychiatry. Volume 29:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 88
• Page End: 96
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: cannabis-based products -- labelling -- accuracy -- contaminants -- cannabinoids; Psychiatry -- Australasia -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1177/1039856220965334
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1039-8562

Abstract

Objectives: To review the literature regarding label accuracy and contamination of medical cannabinoid-based products. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019131565). Results: Five studies reported label accuracy data ranging between 17% and 86%. Four studies reported contaminants, including pesticides, solvents and AB-FUBINACA. Meta-analysis was limited to the proportion of pesticide-contaminated samples found in two studies (0.25 (95% CI [0.10, 0.40])) and displayed significant heterogeneity. Conclusions: Label inaccuracies and contaminants are found across a spectrum of cannabinoid-based products. The review highlights the paucity and heterogeneity of research relating to cannabinoid-based products in light of changing global legislation. Further robust research is required to support ongoing pharmacovigilance and patient safety.