Scheffler F, et al. - Researchers performed an investigation regarding changes in body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose and lipids, and rates of metabolic syndrome risk factors in cannabis users vs non-users in minimally treated patients with first-episode schizophrenia, schizophreniform or schizo-affective disorder who were treated according to a standardized treatment regime with depot antipsychotic medication over 12 months. Participants underwent repeated urine toxicology tests for cannabis, those testing positive at any time during the study were compared with those who tested negative at all time points. The cannabis negative group showed significant increases in fasting blood glucose and triglycerides and a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol compared to the cannabis positive group that showed no significant changes. The groups did not differ significantly in rates of metabolic syndrome. Findings suggested direct suppression of appetite with chronic cannabis use, that may prevent weight gain in users.