With cannabis products becoming more accessible across the U.S., the discussion around potential health impacts is gaining urgency. Dr. Kevin Gray, Director of Addiction Sciences at the Medical University of South Carolina, sheds light on these concerns as he and his colleagues observe various cannabis-related health issues emerging in patients, despite the substance being illegal in South Carolina.
Understanding Cannabis Use Disorder and Its Health Impact
The most prominent adverse effect that Dr. Gray and other clinicians encounter is cannabis use disorder. This disorder develops when an individual repeatedly uses cannabis to the point that it impairs their daily life. While they may recognize the negative impact, they often find it challenging to reduce their consumption.
The appeal of cannabis lies partly in its therapeutic potential. Some compounds within cannabis, when isolated, have shown promising results in medical treatment. Yet, cannabis use without clinical supervision can lead to side effects that offset any benefits. High-potency products can cause significant adverse reactions, especially in first-time users. For example, unexpected experiences such as panic attacks or psychotic episodes can emerge, which leaves people in a compromised state of mental health.
Concerns for Specific Groups: Adolescents, Pregnant Women, and Patients with Psychiatric Conditions
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of cannabis. Dr. Gray emphasizes concerns over adolescent cannabis use, as the human brain continues developing well into the mid-20s. Cannabis exposure during these formative years may increase the risk of cognitive impairment and emotional challenges later in life.
Pregnant women who use cannabis also face substantial risks, with growing evidence suggesting that maternal cannabis use can affect fetal development. This group is at a heightened risk of adverse effects on the offspring, potentially leading to developmental issues in children.
The third group of concern includes individuals with existing psychiatric disorders. Cannabis use may initially seem beneficial for managing symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, or depression. However, Dr. Gray points out that studies consistently reveal worsened outcomes for psychiatric patients who use cannabis. Instead of alleviating symptoms long-term, cannabis often complicates the disorder, adding a layer of difficulty to its management.
Open Communication with Healthcare Providers Is Essential
A significant barrier to managing cannabis use and its side effects is the lack of patient-provider communication. Dr. Gray notes that patients frequently omit cannabis from their health disclosures, which means they miss out on potentially crucial advice from their doctors.
When patients use cannabis without their doctor’s knowledge, they risk experiencing drug interactions with other medications. Moreover, patients lack proper guidance on dosing and usage frequency, which are essential for mitigating adverse effects.
High-potency products, now widely available, exacerbate this issue, especially among naive users who might unknowingly consume excessive amounts. For instance, even a single dose of a high-strength cannabis product can trigger an intense psychological reaction. Dr. Gray emphasizes that including cannabis use in conversations with healthcare providers could help patients receive comprehensive care and avoid these pitfalls.
Risks of High-Potency Cannabis: A Growing Concern
Today’s cannabis products differ significantly from those available in past decades, especially in terms of potency. Higher THC levels can amplify the risks of adverse reactions, leading to episodes like anxiety attacks or even short-term psychosis. For those unfamiliar with cannabis, these effects can be particularly overwhelming.
High-potency cannabis poses unique risks because it intensifies psychoactive effects that users may not anticipate. In cases where individuals experience such reactions, they may require immediate medical support, something many might not expect when initially exploring cannabis. This unpredictability raises significant concerns among healthcare providers, who emphasize the need for careful and informed use of cannabis products.
- High THC Levels: Modern cannabis products contain significantly higher levels of THC, the compound responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects.
- Increased Adverse Reactions: Higher potency can lead to unexpected outcomes such as severe anxiety or psychotic episodes, particularly for novice users.
- Need for Medical Guidance: Without proper consultation, patients may not be prepared for the intensity of effects from high-potency products.
Incorporating cannabis into one’s life without medical supervision can, therefore, bring about unintended and sometimes severe consequences.
Jane Smith is a seasoned article writer specializing in cannabis-related content. With a keen focus on the latest trends, research, and developments in the cannabis industry, she brings a fresh perspective to her writing. Jane’s insightful articles delve into the medicinal benefits, legalization efforts, and evolving culture surrounding cannabis. Her engaging storytelling and informative approach make her a trusted source for readers seeking accurate and up-to-date information on all things cannabis.