Psychiatrists’ opinions about non-medicalization of cannabis use disorder in Iran

Abstract Background: Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a significant challenge in public health and treatment policy. While medicalization has facilitated greater access to treatment services, it may also lead to dependency on pharmacological treatments and increased unnecessary healthcare costs. This study aimed to explore psychiatrists’ perspectives on the demedicalization of CUD. Methods: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach and was conducted in Iran. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 16 psychiatrists experienced in the field of addiction.