Major Research Findings

The use of marijuana as a medicinal agent is becoming increasingly popular, with 25 states having legalized it for medical purposes. However, emerging evidence suggests that marijuana use can lead to cardiovascular side effects, including rhythm abnormalities, syncope/dizziness, and myocardial infarction, among others. 1 Further, there are currently no stringent national standards or approval processes, such as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluation, in place to assess medical marijuana products. This review includes the largest up-to-date pooled population of patients with exposure to marijuana and reported cardiovascular effects. While many advocate for marijuana as a benign adjunctive medical therapy, it is associated with its own set of cardiovascular risks and requires further definitive study and the same level of scrutiny applied to research on all other types of medications. 1 When used as a medicinal agent, marijuana should be regarded accordingly, and both clinical providers and patients must be aware of potential adverse effects associated with its use for early recognition and management. 1

Reasons for Side Effects

Cannabinoids present in marijuana, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can affect the cardiovascular system, potentially causing serious side effects such as heart attacks. Marijuana use can also disrupt the electrical activity of the heart, leading to arrhythmias. 1

Common Side Effects

Arrhythmias

Marijuana can disrupt the electrical activity of the heart, leading to arrhythmias. 1

Syncope/Dizziness

Marijuana can lower blood pressure, potentially causing syncope or dizziness. 1

Myocardial Infarction

Marijuana may increase the risk of heart attacks. 1

Side Effect Management

Arrhythmias

Discontinue or use marijuana as directed by your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if arrhythmias persist or worsen. 1

Syncope/Dizziness

Discontinue or use marijuana as directed by your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if syncope or dizziness persist or worsen. 1

Myocardial Infarction

If you experience signs or symptoms of a heart attack, call emergency services immediately. 1

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities

All studies indicate that marijuana use can increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects. 1

Differences

Studies vary in the strength of the association between marijuana use and cardiovascular side effects, and in the incidence of specific side effects. 1

Real-Life Applications: Points to Note

If you use marijuana, it's essential to be aware of the risk of cardiovascular side effects. 1 If you have heart disease or other health conditions, you should avoid marijuana use. 1 If you do use marijuana, start with a low dose and gradually increase the amount. 1

Limitations of Current Research

Further research is needed on the relationship between marijuana use and cardiovascular side effects. 1 In particular, we need more information about the specific types and dosages of marijuana and their effects on the risk of cardiovascular side effects. 1

Future Research Directions

More research is needed on the relationship between marijuana use and cardiovascular side effects. 1 In particular, we need more information about the specific types and dosages of marijuana and their effects on the risk of cardiovascular side effects. 1 We also need to investigate the long-term effects of marijuana on cardiovascular health. 1

Conclusion

Marijuana is associated with the risk of cardiovascular side effects, and when used as a medicinal agent, it should be treated accordingly. Both clinical providers and patients must be aware of potential adverse effects associated with its use for early recognition and management. 1 Further research in this area is needed to better understand the relationship between marijuana use and cardiovascular side effects. 1