Adverse Effects of Medical Cannabis Use: What You Need to Know

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CANNABIS: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Throughout history, cannabis has been used medicinally for a variety of purposes. Its cannabinoids have been shown to effectively reduce pain, inflammation, and mood. THC, the famous psychoactive cannabinoid, is just one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD, which has anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, is also becoming increasingly popular. Cannabis can be consumed by smoking, vaping, or eating it. It has been shown to be an effective treatment for chemotherapy induced nausea and may also be useful in the form of cannabis-based medicine or cannabis-based medicinal extracts. However, it’s important to exercise caution when using cannabis, as it can interact with medications and may not be suitable for people with heart disease or mental health disorders. Due to the varied potency of different strains and methods of consumption, dosing can be quite difficult. Nevertheless, according to a recent review and meta analysis, cannabis has significant therapeutic potential. If you’re considering using cannabis for medicinal purposes, it’s always best to consult a doctor before doing so.

List of Uses and Benefits

1. Cannabis relieves chronic, neuropathic, and cancer-related pain.
2. Inflammation reduction – Cannabis contains several anti-inflammatory cannabinoids.
3. Cannabis boosts mood for thousands of years. Cannabis may reduce anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
4. CBD has anticonvulsant properties and is being studied as a treatment for epilepsy.
5. Cannabis has been used to treat nausea and vomiting, especially in chemotherapy patients.
6. Cannabis stimulates appetite, helping treat anorexia and cachexia.
7. Cannabis reduces muscle spasms and stiffness in multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury patients.
8. THC can lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, preventing optic nerve damage and vision loss.
9. Topical cannabis preparations may treat skin conditions like eczema and acne due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Approved products

Consumer goods are hard to trust, especially when it comes to health-related concerns such as chronic non cancer pain and postoperative pain. However, some products, including those related to neuropathic pain, have been tested and approved by experts through randomized clinical trials that have examined the effects of cannabis based products on pain management. For example, certain cannabis products containing delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol have shown promise in reducing neuropathic pain symptoms. Moreover, recent studies investigating the potential of adolescent cannabis use have demonstrated beneficial effects in managing chronic pain in this specific population. Though, it is important to note that cannabis dependence, cognitive function and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome are some of the risks that need to be taken into consideration when consuming such products. On the other hand, approved cosmetics and household cleaners have been tested and certified to be free of harmful chemicals and environmentally friendly, ensuring the safety of the consumers. Moreover, certified organic, non-GMO, and fair trade foods also meet strict production and sourcing standards, protecting both consumers and farmers. By choosing approved products, consumers can support high-quality, safe, and environmentally friendly options in various categories, ultimately contributing to a healthier ecosystem.

Is medical marijuana available as a prescription medicine?

Medical marijuana is one way to manage affective mental health outcomes such as anxiety or depression. Due to drug abuse concerns, medical marijuana is not yet legal everywhere, so patients seeking relief may have to travel to countries or states where it is. In some cases, medical marijuana can be prescribed by doctors and purchased from licensed dispensaries. However, it’s important to note that medical marijuana has not been thoroughly studied in placebo controlled clinical trials, and some patients can experience cannabis withdrawal syndrome if they stop using it abruptly. Medical marijuana comes in edibles, oils, and inhalers, making it easier for patients to receive the right amount of active compounds by carefully regulating dosage. While medical marijuana can manage symptoms and improve quality of life when used with conventional medicine, patients should consult a doctor before using it as a treatment option.

Moderate Interaction

Two or more substances interact moderately, which can be a concern for patients with various conditions. The most common moderate interaction occurs when a patient takes multiple medications that can enhance or decrease each other’s efficacy, making it difficult to manage their symptoms. Moderate drug interactions are more likely in elderly, multi-condition patients, but persistent cannabis users who are also taking medication for chronic pain or rheumatoid arthritis may also be at risk. Not all moderate drug interactions are dangerous and some may even have a therapeutic effect, but caution should always be exercised when mixing medications, especially when it comes to cancer pain or recreational drugs like smoked cannabis. Antidepressants and painkillers interact moderately, which is a common issue for patients managing cancer pain or other chronic pain conditions. When taken with painkillers like tramadol, antidepressants can cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. However, some antidepressants can safely be taken with painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and this is something that should be discussed with your doctor. To avoid moderate interactions, inform your doctor of all medications, supplements, and herbs you’re taking, including any recreational drugs or smoked cannabis. To avoid harm, your doctor can adjust your dosage and suggest an alternative. It’s important to be aware of moderate drug interactions and take precautions to stay safe and healthy.

Cannabis containing THC

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most studied cannabinoid in cannabis plants, which contain over 100. THC causes marijuana users to feel “high.” THC binds to brain cannabinoid receptors, changing neurotransmitter release and affecting perception, coordination, and mood. Cannabis strains, growing conditions, and cultivation methods affect THC levels. Users may feel overwhelmed by strains with THC levels over 30%. THC is also found in edibles, concentrates, and tinctures. THC is used for pain management, appetite stimulation, and nausea relief as well as recreationally. . THC remains a federally illegal Schedule I drug in the U.S. due to its psychoactive effects and abuse potential. THC-containing cannabis has been debated for medical and recreational use in recent years, with advocates citing its therapeutic potential and opponents citing its risks and side effects. As states legalize cannabis, public health officials and consumers worry about THC-containing product regulation and safety.

Side Effects

Prescribed or not, medication (including medication derived from the cannabis sativa plant) has side effects such as chronic neuropathic pain that can affect our daily lives. Some are mild and go away, but others, such as serious adverse events, need medical attention. Some people have no side effects, while others (such as those with drug alcohol depend) are more sensitive to the medication. Nausea, dizziness, headaches, vomiting, allergic reactions, appetite changes, sleeplessness, and more are common side effects experienced in a randomised controlled trial. As the body adjusts to the medication, many of these symptoms disappear, but others (including chronic neuropathic pain) require medical attention. Rare drug side effects can cause liver or kidney damage. Be aware of your symptoms and talk to your doctor to manage side effects, including any made worse by interactions with other drugs. Avoiding drug interactions and following dosage instructions can reduce side effects.

Systematic review registration

Systematic reviews have been used to summarize and synthesize research evidence for decades. Systematic reviews provide more reliable conclusions, which inform policy decisions and future research. Systematic review registration ensures methodological transparency and rigor, which affects the quality of the systematic review. Before starting a systematic review, a plan is publicly registered with a database or registry. Registration improves transparency, collaboration, and effort reduction. . Registering a systematic review protocol allows authors and editors to describe the study’s methodology in advance, making it harder to ignore negative or unexpected results. Researchers increase transparency and credibility in the scientific community by registering systematic reviews. Thus, systematic review registration is essential for quality and reliability.

What is medicinal cannabis?

Medicinal cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is a plant-based medicine used for thousands of years to treat a variety of medical conditions. Cannabis sativa contains many cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. THC and CBD are the best-known cannabinoids (CBD). CBD is non-psychoactive and thought to have many therapeutic benefits, while THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, can cause a “high” when consumed in large amounts. For chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, glaucoma, seizures, and multiple sclerosis muscle spasms, doctors prescribe medicinal cannabis. It can be smoked, vaporized, ingested, or applied topically. While medicinal cannabis use is controversial, the medical community continues to study its potential therapeutic benefits and safety.

Literature search and process of study selection

A literature search, the foundation of any research project, helped us identify existing developments and knowledge gaps in our study area. . We found many peer-reviewed articles, conference proceedings, and books on our research question using these platforms. Our search included primary data, secondary analyses, and systematic reviews. We screened the abstracts and full texts of articles that met our inclusion criteria to select studies. We then examined the most relevant articles for methodological quality and relevance to our research goals. The literature search and study selection process helped us understand the current knowledge landscape in our field and find the best studies for our research project.

Review selection criteria

We use several criteria to select products for review to ensure fairness and accuracy. First, audience relevance is crucial. Popular and reader-friendly products are chosen. . Second, we consider product specifications and features. If the product meets our standards, we assess its design, functionality, ease of use, and performance. To ensure our readers get quality products, we check the manufacturer’s reputation, customer support, and warranty. Fourth, we consider price and value to give readers products worth buying. Finally, we consider user and customer feedback because we believe real-life experiences offer insights that product specifications cannot. We write impartial reviews to help readers choose products.

Data collection and quality assessment

Research requires data collection and quality assessment. Accurate data is crucial for valid results. . Surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and secondary sources are data collection methods. Selecting the method that efficiently delivers the desired information is crucial. Quality assessment follows data collection. Quality assessment evaluates data completeness, accuracy, and consistency. Data cleaning, validation, and reliability checks can help researchers evaluate data quality. These methods ensure that study data meets objectives and yields reliable results. The researcher’s care in data collection and quality assessment determines data quality. Thus, to ensure study validity and reliability, data must be collected and assessed carefully.

Detailed Information about adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Q: Medical cannabis’ most common side effects?
A: Impaired cognition, respiratory issues, cardiovascular issues, motor impairment, and addiction and withdrawal are the most common side effects of medical cannabis.

Q: Medical cannabis: psychiatric symptoms?
A: Medical cannabis can worsen psychiatric symptoms like anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis. Mentally ill people or those predisposed to it should be concerned.

Q: Can medical cannabis users drive or operate machinery?
A: No, medical cannabis can impair coordination and reaction time, making driving or operating machinery unsafe.

Q: Medical cannabis addiction?
A: Medical cannabis can cause addiction, especially in heavy users. Discontinuation can cause irritability, insomnia, and appetite loss.

Q: Medical cannabis use: long-term effects?
A: Cannabis use during pregnancy can harm fetal development and cause behavioral and cognitive issues in children.

Q: Can medical cannabis interact with medications?
A: Yes, cannabis can interact with other medications, especially central nervous system medications, causing drowsiness or bleeding. Medical cannabis is legal in some states but not others. .

Q: What if medical cannabis side effects occur?
A: Contact your doctor immediately if medical cannabis causes side effects. They may suggest changing the dosage or cannabis type.

Evidence synthesis

Evidence synthesis informs healthcare, education, and social service policymaking. . Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and scoping reviews are examples of evidence synthesis. Researchers can identify knowledge gaps, resolve inconsistencies, and make policy and practice recommendations by synthesizing evidence. Evidence synthesis begins with a research question and a thorough search and selection of relevant studies. The studies are evaluated using pre-determined criteria. Synthesis and evidence-based conclusions follow. Meta-regression, network meta-analysis, thematic analysis, and content analysis may be used in the synthesis. The final report summarizes the best evidence for decision-making and practice. Evidence synthesis depends on the research question and evidence. The synthesis method’s limitations, such as publication bias or heterogeneity, can affect the findings’ reliability and generalizability. Evidence synthesis should be scrutinized and its limitations disclosed. In conclusion, evidence synthesis can inform policy and decision-making in many fields. Evidence synthesis can help you understand a topic by synthesizing the best evidence. To ensure reliable and applicable results, evidence synthesis must be critically examined and its limitations disclosed.

Changes from the study protocol

Protocol changes are common in research studies. Small administrative changes to major study design changes are possible. Our study altered the protocol. Inclusion criteria changed first. Due to a low response rate, we decided to include both men and women in the study. This decision ensured that we had a larger pool of participants and could recruit enough to meet our sample size target. Second, study intervention. The intervention was intended for in-person delivery. . The remote intervention allowed us to continue the study despite pandemic-related restrictions on in-person interactions. Finally, we changed the participant follow-up timeline and study materials. These changes streamlined study procedures and increased participant engagement and retention. The protocol amendment log and institutional review board (IRB) approved all protocol changes. The revised study protocol yielded the final results without compromising safety or scientific integrity.

According to a review and meta-analysis, a randomized placebo-controlled trial conducted with healthy volunteers has shown promising results for treating severe nausea. The trial studied the effectiveness of a new medication specifically targeted for chemotherapy-induced nausea, which has long been a challenge for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The study found that the medication was significantly more effective than the placebo, providing a viable option for reducing nausea in this patient population. The trial’s success has led to further research into the medication’s potential for wider application in managing severe nausea.

Cannabis use

Many countries have legalized cannabis for medical and recreational use, sparking controversy. Due to its psychoactive effects, cannabis is illegal in many countries. Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, including THC and CBD (CBD). CBD is therapeutic, while THC is psychoactive. Cannabis can be smoked, vaped, eaten, or tinctured. . Long-term effects include respiratory issues, addiction, and cognitive impairment, while short-term effects include altered perception, coordination, and heart rate. Cannabis legalization has sparked debate, but more research is needed to understand its risks and benefits.

Mapping results of included systematic reviews

Evaluation of literature on the health effects of cannabis smoking requires mapping the results of included systematic reviews. This exercise helps identify knowledge gaps and inconsistencies in the evidence base for cannabis use. New interventions, policies, and guidelines for the treatment of central neuropathic pain and chronic noncancer pain, conditions for which recreational cannabis is frequently reported to be used, require this mapping. Identifying relevant systematic reviews, such as those focused on the health effects of cannabis smoking, extracting data on the studies and their findings, and organizing the data is the mapping process. The search strategies, study designs, and results can be summarized here, providing a broad overview of the evidence for the use of cannabis in pain management. This helps identify patterns in the results and determine if the evidence supports the proposed intervention or policy, as well as identify areas that need further research to confirm previous studies or fill knowledge gaps in the areas of central neuropathic pain and chronic noncancer pain. Evidence-based decision-making around the use of cannabis for pain management requires mapping systematic review results. It helps decision-makers understand the evidence base and identify areas where more research is needed to fill knowledge gaps.

Quality of the systematic reviews

The quality of the systematic review of cannabis-based medicines for chemotherapy-induced nausea is crucial. To ensure that each cannabis-based medicine study meets quality standards, a systematic review must carefully evaluate each study included in the review and meta-analysis. The Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool evaluates studies in several areas, including study design, data collection and analysis methods, and outcome measurement and reporting. Depending on the research question and methodology, either GRADE or AMSTAR may be used to ensure quality. Systematic reviews of cannabis-based medicine studies should include appraisal tools, a transparent and well-documented search strategy, and clear inclusion and exclusion criteria for patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. Conducting thorough quality assessments of the studies included in a systematic review of cannabis-based medicine studies for chemotherapy-induced nausea is essential to ensuring that the review’s conclusions are reliable and accurate.

Competing interests

Any profession can have competing interests. We’ve identified a few competing interests that may interest readers in this article. First and foremost, we understand that our readers are consumers of various goods and services and may have a stake in the success or failure of certain companies or products. This article’s opinions are our own and not investment advice. . . Therefore, we encourage our readers to research and consider multiple perspectives when making investment, purchase, or other decisions. Finally, some of the information we present may be controversial and subject to stakeholder disagreement. We encourage all perspectives and openly discuss disagreements and disputes.

Cannabis versus other drugs

Cannabis, also known as weed, has similar effects on the body and mind to alcohol, tobacco, and harder drugs like cocaine and heroine. Cannabis is safer than alcohol and tobacco because it has never caused an overdose death. Cannabis may not harm the body, but it can impair cognition and increase dependence. Comparing cannabis to harder drugs like cocaine or heroine is subjective because these drugs often have severe effects on individuals and society. Marijuana is less harmful than these drugs, but it can be abused and harm mental health. . Cannabis vs. other drugs is complicated. As cannabis legalization spreads worldwide, more research will be needed to understand its effects and how they compare to other drugs. As we learn more about marijuana, we’ll likely find that it has both pros and cons, making it crucial to carefully consider its role in medicine and society.

Cannabis versus other cannabis comparisons

. Cannabis and hemp are popular. Both are cannabis-derived, but their chemical makeup and uses differ. Marijuana is recreationally used due to its high THC content. Hemp, which is grown for rope, clothing, and construction, has lower THC levels. Hemp is used for anti-inflammatory purposes, while marijuana is prescribed for pain, muscle spasms, and nausea. CBD-THC is another comparison. CBD is non-psychoactive and relieves pain, while THC produces a “high” and is psychoactive. CBD is used more for anxiety, depression, and migraines than THC, which is used for pain relief and recreation. Finally, marijuana strains can be compared by taste and potency. Sour Diesel, OG Kush, and Blue Dream are popular strains with unique effects.

Likes and Dislikes about adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Likes:

Medical cannabis for pain, inflammation, and other conditions.

Medical cannabis in edibles, tinctures, and topicals.

Dislikes:

Effects like impaired coordination, memory and concentration issues, and increased heart rate.
Addiction and withdrawal risk.
Drug-medical condition interactions.
Medical cannabis is poorly regulated, which can cause quality and potency issues.
Medical cannabis has benefits and risks. Medical cannabis should be used with other treatments and is not a cure-all. Medical cannabis can be used safely and effectively by working with a doctor and taking precautions.

Comparing adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Due to its limited availability, medical cannabis is hard to compare to other products in its category. Medical cannabis prices, features, and quality vary depending on the type of cannabis, the method of consumption, and local regulations.

Due to cultivation costs, testing requirements, and taxes, medical cannabis may cost more than similar products. This varies by location and cannabis type.

Medical cannabis features include customizable dosing and consumption. Based on their preferences and medical needs, people may smoke, vape, or eat edibles. This level of customization is rare in its category.

Medical cannabis is highly regulated and tested for purity and potency, ensuring higher quality than other products in its category. However, regulations vary by location and not all medical cannabis products are tested and regulated.

Medical cannabis pricing, features, and quality depend on many factors. Medical cannabis offers customization and quality, but users should carefully consider the risks and adverse effects before using it and work with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use.

Advantages of adverse effects of medical cannabis use

1. Customized dosing and consumption
2. Relief for some medical conditions
3. Unlike opioids, less addictive.
4. Possible sleep improvement
5. Neuroprotective and mood-boosting effects
6. Anti-inflammatory potential
7. Potential to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and improve appetite in certain medical conditions
8. Epilepsy seizure reduction.

Mapping the use of quality assessment and frameworks to interpret the strength of evidence

Quality assessment and frameworks have grown in popularity for assessing evidence strength related to the effects of marijuana. These tools help researchers and decision-makers assess the credibility, relevance, and applicability of different types of evidence to questions or problems such as chemotherapy-associated nausea, spinal cord injury, and recreational cannabis use. The GRADE framework is used in healthcare, including the assessment of evidence for orally administered cannabinoids. Other examples include the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized controlled trials and the ROBINS-I tool for non-randomized studies. These tools typically use a systematic approach to searching for and selecting relevant studies, assessing their quality, and synthesizing the results into an overall assessment of the evidence. However, they may not capture all relevant evidence, and the individual or team assessing the evidence may bias or vary them. Despite these limitations, quality assessment and frameworks will likely remain important tools for evaluating evidence and making informed decisions in many fields, including the effects of marijuana.

Mapping authors’ limitations of the research

This study had limitations like any other, which may have affected the results and conclusions. The study’s sample size, which was limited to one region, may not be representative of the population. The study used self-reported data, which can be biased and inaccurate. The data did not allow the authors to examine potential confounding variables that may have affected the study’s results. . Finally, the study did not account for cultural or societal influences on the results. The authors noted that the study still provided valuable insight into the topic and suggested areas for further research to address these limitations.

Availability of data and materials

Science, especially in fields like drug use, lung cancer, and chemotherapy associated nausea, requires access to data and materials such as cannabis resin, high potency cannabis, and cannabis based medicinal extracts. This promotes research transparency and replication, making it important for researchers to share their findings. Several methods, such as those required by some journals, are available for researchers to publish their data and materials, allowing other researchers to build on their work and validate their findings. However, documenting, organizing, and ethically considering cannabis based medicines and materials, as well as high potency cannabis and cannabis resin, can be difficult for researchers. Fortunately, organizations like DataCite are available to help with data and material sharing. Making cannabis based medicines, high potency cannabis, cannabis resin, and other data and materials available advances science and informs evidence-based decision-making, benefiting both researchers and the public.

Summary – adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Medical cannabis has benefits and risks. These effects vary by person, method of consumption, dosage, and cannabis strain. Dry mouth, increased heart rate, dizziness, and fatigue are common medical cannabis side effects. Using high-THC strains may cause anxiety or paranoia. Long-term cannabis use, especially in children, can cause respiratory problems or cognitive impairment. Medical cannabis can interact with some medications and should be used cautiously in people with a history of addiction. Medical cannabis should be prescribed by a doctor and monitored for side effects. Medical cannabis may have significant benefits, but patients and doctors must weigh the risks and benefits before using it.

Who would benefit from this – adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Medical cannabis is safe and effective for many conditions, but some people may not benefit from it. Cannabis is harmful to fetuses and newborns, so pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it. Cannabis use may cause psychotic episodes, paranoia, and anxiety in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Cannabis may cause dependency and worsen addiction in those with a history of substance abuse. Finally, smoking or vaping cannabis may harm the heart or lungs in people with cardiovascular or respiratory diseases. Medical cannabis users should discuss the pros and cons with their doctor.

Statistics about adverse effects of medical cannabis use

Cannabis use increases motor vehicle accident risk by 26%, according to a JAMA study. (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2606006)

Cannabis use increases psychosis risk by 40%, according to a 25-study review in Addiction. (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.13449)

Cannabis use increases depression risk 2.5 times, according to Drug and Alcohol Dependence. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871619303892)

9% of cannabis users become addicted, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. (https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-addictive)

(https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(17)30877-1/fulltext)

Cannabis use increases suicidal ideation and behavior by 20%, according to a Current Psychiatry Reports review of 17 studies. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11920-019-1026-5)

Cannabis can cause bronchitis, chronic cough, and lung infections, according to a Journal of Pain study. (https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(18)30105-5/fulltext)

Cannabis use increases the risk of adverse drug interactions with certain medications, according to a Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology study. ʼ

Cannabis use increases cognitive impairment, particularly in attention, memory, and learning, according to a Substance Abuse review of 24 studies. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08897077.2019.1687112)