Weed and blood pressure

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The Impact of Cannabis on Blood Pressure: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction to Cannabis and Blood Pressure

Cannabis use has been a topic of increasing interest, particularly regarding its effects on cardiovascular health. Blood pressure (BP) regulation is a critical aspect of cardiovascular health, and understanding how cannabis influences BP is essential, especially as cannabis use becomes more widespread.

Cannabis and Blood Pressure Reduction in Older Adults

A study focusing on older adults with hypertension found that cannabis use was associated with a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over a three-month period. The study involved 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and revealed that the mean systolic BP decreased by 5.0 mmHg and diastolic BP by 4.5 mmHg, with the lowest BP levels occurring three hours post-administration. This suggests that cannabis may have a beneficial effect on BP in older adults with hypertension.

Acute Effects of Cannabis on Blood Pressure

Contrary to the findings in older adults, other studies have reported that cannabis use can lead to an acute increase in blood pressure. Data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey indicated that recent cannabis use was associated with a modest increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP). Additionally, cannabis smoking has been linked to symptomatic hypotension in some users, particularly when combined with the cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant, which suggests a complex interaction between cannabis and BP regulation.

Cannabis Use and Blood Pressure Variability

Blood pressure variability (BPV) is an important predictor of cardiovascular events. Research has shown that active cannabis use is associated with higher BPV, measured by the standard deviation and coefficient of variation across multiple visits. This association was particularly strong in tobacco smokers for SBP variability and in non-smokers for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) variability. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into how cannabis influences BPV and its long-term cardiovascular implications.

Cannabis and Blood Pressure in Special Populations

In individuals with spinal cord injuries, cannabis has been used to manage autonomic dysreflexia, a condition characterized by episodes of severe hypertension. A case report documented that cannabis use significantly reduced the frequency and severity of these hypertensive episodes, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for cannabis in managing BP in this population.

Long-Term Effects and Withdrawal

Long-term cannabis use and its cessation can also impact BP. A study found that abrupt cessation of daily cannabis use led to significant increases in both systolic and diastolic BP in a subset of users, indicating that withdrawal from cannabis can have substantial cardiovascular effects. This underscores the importance of monitoring BP in individuals attempting to reduce or quit cannabis use, especially those with preexisting hypertension.

Mixed Findings and Need for Further Research

The relationship between cannabis use and BP is complex and appears to vary based on factors such as age, frequency of use, and the presence of other health conditions. Some studies have found no significant association between long-term cannabis use and increased BP or hypertension, while others have reported an increased risk of acute coronary syndrome and other cardiovascular events associated with cannabis use.

Conclusion

The impact of cannabis on blood pressure is multifaceted, with evidence suggesting both potential benefits and risks. While cannabis may reduce BP in older adults with hypertension and help manage conditions like autonomic dysreflexia, it can also lead to acute increases in BP and higher BP variability. The effects of cannabis withdrawal on BP further complicate the picture. Given these mixed findings, more research is needed to fully understand the cardiovascular implications of cannabis use and to guide safe and effective use, particularly in populations with existing cardiovascular concerns.