The impact of Laboratory-Based Diagnosis of Synthetic Cannabinoids in the Emergency Department on Treatment, Length of Stay, and Prognosis

Laboratory Diagnosis of Synthetic Cannabinoids in ED

Abstract

Introduction: Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a structurally diverse class of synthetic substances frequently misused as recreational drugs. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of laboratory-confirmed SC use on the treatment process, length of stay in the emergency department (ED), and patient prognosis in individuals presenting to the ED with a reported history of SC use.

Methods: This prospective observational study included ED patients aged 18–75 years with self-reported synthetic cannabinoid use. Laboratory tests, including SC levels in blood and urine, were conducted. SC-positive and SC-negative patients were compared in terms of lab findings, treatment, ED stay, and prognosis.

Results: The study included 101 patients (95% male, mean age 25.8 years). Most presented with symptoms (55.4%) or for addiction treatment (44.6%), commonly reporting fatigue, nausea, agitation, and palpitations. SC was detected in 6.9% of urine samples. No significant lab differences were found between SC-positive and negative patients, except for slightly lower SpO₂ levels in SC-positives. ED stay duration and patient outcomes were similar across groups, with 97% discharged and 3% monitored in the ICU.

Conclusion: The laboratory diagnosis of synthetic cannabinoids in patients presenting to the ED did not significantly affect treatment outcomes, ED length of stay, or prognosis.