Cannabis and blood pressure
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Cannabis Use and Blood Pressure: Overview
Research on the relationship between cannabis use and blood pressure (BP) shows mixed results, with findings varying by age, frequency of use, and population characteristics. Some studies report modest effects, while others find no significant association or even reductions in BP under certain conditions 1245+1 MORE.
Acute and Chronic Effects of Cannabis on Blood Pressure
Acute Effects: Increases and Variability
Acute cannabis use has been linked to short-term increases in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and, in some cases, orthostatic hypotension (a drop in BP upon standing) 18. Additionally, active cannabis use is associated with greater visit-to-visit BP variability, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular events . This variability appears to be influenced by factors such as tobacco use .
Chronic and Regular Use: Modest or No Long-Term Impact
Several large population studies have found that regular or long-term cannabis use is not significantly associated with increased BP or a higher prevalence of hypertension in middle-aged and older adults 59. In these studies, neither the duration nor the recency of cannabis use showed a meaningful impact on SBP, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), or hypertension risk 59.
Blood Pressure Reduction in Specific Populations
Older Adults and Hypertensive Patients
In older adults with hypertension, medical cannabis use over three months was associated with a significant reduction in both SBP and DBP, with the greatest decrease observed a few hours after administration . This suggests potential benefits for BP control in this specific group.
Special Cases: Spinal Cord Injury
For individuals with spinal cord injury experiencing episodes of severe hypertension (autonomic dysreflexia), cannabis use was reported to improve BP stability and reduce the frequency and severity of hypertensive episodes. However, high doses could also cause prolonged low BP (hypotension) in some cases .
Gender, Socioeconomic, and Comorbidity Factors
The association between cannabis use and BP may differ by gender, comorbidities, and socioeconomic status. Some studies found that heavy lifetime cannabis use was linked to slightly lower SBP, DBP, and PP, especially among women and those with certain health or lifestyle factors. However, these differences were small and not considered clinically significant for public health policy .
Cannabis Use and Blood Pressure During Anesthesia
Patients with prior cannabis exposure required less blood pressure support during general anesthesia, possibly due to changes in the body’s response to cannabinoids. This suggests cannabis may alter vascular responses in certain medical settings .
Pulse Pressure and Mean Arterial Pressure
Cannabis use has been associated with a widening of pulse pressure, particularly in males, and this effect increases with frequency of use. However, no significant association was found with mean arterial pressure .
Conclusion
Overall, the relationship between cannabis use and blood pressure is complex and influenced by factors such as age, frequency of use, gender, and underlying health conditions. While acute use may increase BP or cause variability, long-term or regular use does not appear to significantly raise BP or hypertension risk in the general population. In some groups, such as older adults with hypertension, cannabis may even lower BP. However, effects can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand the cardiovascular implications of cannabis use 1234+6 MORE.
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