High Potency Cannabis Flower Use Linked to Heavier Consumption and Risk of Cannabis Use Disorder

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from the RAND Corporation have conducted a study on the association between high potency cannabis flower use and cannabis consumption behavior among young adults in California. The study, published in the journal Addiction, found that users of high potency cannabis flower are more likely to consume cannabis frequently and in higher quantities, and are at a higher risk of developing cannabis use disorder.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study was based on a cross-sectional survey of 512 young adults in California, with a mean age of 25.86 years and 48.04% female participation.
  • Nearly one in five respondents (18.55%) reported not knowing the THC potency of the flower they typically used, while 46.76% endorsed using High or Very High THC flower.
  • The study found that a one-point increase in perceived THC potency was associated with 3.33 more use days per month and higher Cannabis Use Disorder Identification Test - Revised (CUDIT-R) scores.
  • The research concluded that self-reported use of higher potency cannabis flower appears to be associated with heavier consumption and risk for cannabis use disorder.
  • The study has implications for the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies for cannabis use disorder among young adults.
  • The study's findings suggest that individuals may not titrate their use of higher-potency cannabis, contrary to the notion that individuals adjust their consumption based on the potency of the product.

Statistics:

  • 18.55% of respondents reported not knowing the THC potency of the flower they typically used.
  • 46.76% of respondents endorsed using High or Very High THC flower.
  • For every one-point increase in perceived THC potency, respondents reported 3.33 more use days per month.
  • The study found higher CUDIT-R scores among respondents who reported using higher potency cannabis flower.

Sources:

  • High Potency Cannabis Flower Use Is Associated With Heavier Consumption And Risk For Cannabis Use Disorder Among Young Adults In California, United States. Addiction, 2025;120(11):2329-2334.
  • NewsRx. Studies from RAND Corporation Yield New Information About Marijuana/Cannabis (High Potency Cannabis Flower Use Is Associated With Heavier Consumption And Risk For Cannabis Use Disorder Among Young Adults In California, United States). Life Science Weekly. October 28, 2025; p 7235.