Cannabinoids affect lower urinary tract function, but clinical evidence linking cannabis to urinary retention is limited. We report a 22-year-old healthy male with acute urinary retention and isolated detrusor acontractility despite normal neurological and urological evaluation. History revealed markedly increased cannabis use in the weeks preceding symptom onset. Four months later – with absolute abstinence from cannabis – bladder function fully recovered with restoration of normal detrusor activity and spontaneous voiding. This case suggests that cannabis use may represent a reversible cause of urinary retention and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained urinary retention in young adults. • Cannabis can influence bladder function and voiding. • Consider cannabis use in unexplained urinary retention. • Always take a detailed history, including non-prescription medications and drugs.
Rotar et al. (Wed,) studied this question.