The relationship between the use of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and the cannabinoid vaping in French student vapers: An exploratory mixed-methods study.

Kinouani S.; Simon M.; Tzourio C. · L'Encephale · 2026

**Background & Methods** This exploratory mixed-methods study examined cannabinoid vaping practices among French university students using a sequential explanatory design. The research combined a cross-sectional quantitative sub-study of 206 current vapers (median age 21, 60.5% male) with a qualitative sub-study of 30 daily vapers (median age 21.5, 57% male) to assess the association between THC use and non-nicotine substance (NNS) vaping, characterize cannabinoid vaping patterns, and identify facilitators and barriers to use. **Key Findings** • Cannabinoid vaping (predominantly THC or CBD) was uncommon among student vapers, with only 11 of 206 quantitative participants (5.3%) reporting NNS vaping. After adjustment for confounders, no statistically significant association was found between past 12-month THC use and NNS vaping (adjusted OR=2.29, 95% CI: 0.23-22.37). • Qualitative participants largely lacked awareness of cannabinoid vaping practices and did not regularly engage in this behavior, suggesting the practice had not become normalized among this population. • Cannabinoid vaping was perceived as appealing primarily to heavy THC consumers. Both intrinsic factors (personal motivations, perceived effects) and extrinsic factors (social influence, product availability) were identified as facilitators or barriers to cannabinoid vaping adoption. **Dosage & Administration** Not reported. **Safety & Adverse Effects** Not reported. **Evidence Quality** This exploratory study has significant limitations. The small sample size (particularly 11 cannabinoid vapers in the quantitative sub-study) limits statistical power and generalizability. The lack of statistical significance in the primary association may reflect insufficient sample size rather than true null findings. The study population consisted exclusively of French university students, limiting applicability to broader young adult populations. The cross-sectional design prevents causal inference. Qualitative data collection methods and analysis approaches were not detailed. The authors acknowledge that further research is necessary to understand cannabinoid vaping practices, particularly as French THC and CBD regulations evolve. The evidence represents exploratory research generating preliminary findings rather than confirmatory evidence.

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