Marijuana use, both for medical and recreational reasons, has been increasing across the United States, including among people over 65. Most seniors turn to marijuana hoping to ease chronic pain, sleep problems, or anxiety. However, medical experts point out that there isn’t yet solid scientific agreement that marijuana is an effective treatment for these problems.
Experts at Stanford Medicine point out that using cannabis regularly at an older age can bring certain health risks. These risks may include heart disease, certain types of cancer, addiction, and worsening of memory or thinking problems that come with aging. For those thinking about trying cannabis, here are five important points to consider.
Today’s marijuana is far stronger than before
Today’s products are much stronger than those from decades ago. In the 1970s, marijuana typically contained 1% to 4% THC. Now, the average product contains about 20%, with some reaching up to 35%. Concentrates and edibles can contain as much as 90%, while synthetic versions have much stronger and more dangerous effects.
Due to the higher potency of today’s marijuana, accidental overuse among older adults is on the rise. A Canadian study comparing hospital visits before and after national legalization found that cannabis-related poisonings in adults over 65 nearly tripled after legalization. Much of this increase was linked to edibles, where effects can take longer to appear, leading people to unintentionally consume too much.
Marijuana can affect the heart and the brain
Although marijuana’s full health effects are still being studied, new research has shown a connection between frequent marijuana use and a higher likelihood of heart attacks (29%) and strokes (20%) among older adults.
While these risks are lower than those linked to smoking tobacco or drinking heavily, many cannabis users also use alcohol or tobacco, which can amplify the danger.
Smoking cannabis can also increase inflammation and may be associated with higher rates of neck, lung, and head cancers.
Older adults also process drugs more slowly. Because of this, marijuana can stay in their systems longer, extending its effects and increasing the chance of interactions with medications.
Marijuana can be addictive
A common misunderstanding is that marijuana cannot cause addiction. However, studies show that about 30% of frequent users develop cannabis use disorder. Symptoms include cravings, withdrawal, and difficulty cutting back.
For those who feel dependent, talking to a healthcare provider can help. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy have been proven to assist people in regaining control.
Medical benefits are still being studied
Even though scientists are still studying the long-term effects of marijuana, some evidence suggests it may help with certain medical conditions. A study conducted in San Francisco in 2017 found that older adults between 51 and 72 used cannabis mainly to manage chronic conditions such as cancer or persistent pain.
While the FDA has not acknowledged marijuana’s medical benefits, it has approved a few specific compounds derived from cannabis. For example, CBD has been approved to treat some rare forms of epilepsy in children. Dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC, is approved to help cancer and HIV/AIDS patients with appetite loss and nausea.
Claims about cannabis treating anxiety, insomnia, or depression still lack solid evidence.
Discuss cannabis use with a healthcare professional
While experts may disagree about how beneficial cannabis is, most agree that seniors should have an open conversation with their healthcare providers before trying or continuing cannabis use. It’s far safer to discuss cannabis with a doctor than to rely on advice from a dispensary employee or experiment without guidance.
A doctor can help older adults evaluate whether marijuana is appropriate for their condition or if there are safer alternatives. They can also monitor for drug interactions or side effects that might not be obvious at first.
It is also helpful to read any literature provided by companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) so that one is adequately informed before choosing specific marijuana products to help with any symptoms you may be struggling with.
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