A study from Gentofte University Hospital suggests that using medical marijuana to treat chronic pain may slightly increase the risk of developing heart rhythm disturbances, or arrhythmias.
Although the absolute risk is low, the findings raise questions about the cardiovascular safety of the drug, even when used for medical purposes.
The researchers analyzed data from a national database of 1.6 million people in Denmark who were being treated for chronic pain caused by conditions such as cancer, arthritis, and neurological disorders.
Among these patients, just under 4,600 had filled at least one prescription for medical cannabis.
The study found that patients using medical marijuana were 64% more likely to experience an arrhythmia within six months of their first prescription compared to those not using the drug.
While the relative increase sounds significant, the actual risk was small: 0.9% of medical marijuana users developed an arrhythmia, compared to 0.5% of non-users.
What Forms of Marijuana Were Studied?
In Denmark, medical cannabis is available in three forms, all of which were included in the study:
- Oral solutions and sprays containing CBD (cannabidiol)
- Teas made with a mix of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD
- Dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC
These medications are prescribed to help manage chronic pain and are taken orally. The study found that arrhythmia risk was consistent across all types of medical cannabis.
How Does Marijuana Affect the Heart?
The study didn’t determine why marijuana might increase arrhythmia risk, but scientists know that the chemicals in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, can affect the cardiovascular system.
These effects include changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and blood clotting tendencies, all of which could influence the risk of heart rhythm disturbances.
Arrhythmias can range from harmless irregular heartbeats to more serious conditions that may lead to complications like stroke or heart failure.
The researchers didn’t identify whether medical marijuana was linked to specific types of arrhythmias, making it unclear how serious these disturbances might be.
Another consideration is the role of chronic pain. Pain itself, especially when severe, can put stress on the body and contribute to arrhythmias.
Many of the patients in the study also used opioids, which are often prescribed for intense pain. This could mean that factors beyond marijuana use, such as pain severity, played a role in the increased arrhythmia risk.
The findings add to the growing discussion about the risks of marijuana, whether used medically or recreationally. While medical cannabis can offer relief for chronic pain, it’s important for patients and healthcare providers to weigh its potential benefits against possible risks.
For those considering medical marijuana, especially if they have existing heart conditions, discussing options with a doctor is crucial. Patients should also be monitored for any cardiovascular side effects during treatment.
This study highlights the need for more research to better understand how medical marijuana affects heart health.
Larger studies could help determine whether the drug is linked to specific types of arrhythmias or whether other factors, like pain or additional medications, contribute to the observed risk.
As marijuana use continues to grow, both medicinally and recreationally, understanding its full impact on health will be essential for making informed decisions about its use.
If you care about heart health, please read studies that yogurt may help lower the death risks in heart disease, and coconut sugar could help reduce artery stiffness.
For more information about health, please see recent studies that Vitamin D deficiency can increase heart disease risk, and results showing vitamin B6 linked to lower death risk in heart disease.
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