ADVERSE EFFECTS OF MEDICAL CANNABIS

While this may not be the most pleasant topic, understanding the side effects and contraindications of using herbal cannabis as a medicine can make the experience both safer and better informed. It is important to speak with a physician or healthcare professional if a user feels that he or she is experiencing any side effects from any medication, including cannabis.

Cannabis can produce adverse effects and also interact negatively with other medicines. A commonly held belief among certain circles is that cannabis is completely safe, but the reality is that cannabis is a potent drug capable of producing significant side effects. The side effects of cannabis medicines can be frightening to novice users, who may be unaccustomed to its psychoactive results. Elderly patients without prior experience can become very uncomfortable indeed. Dosage of medical cannabis to older and inexperienced patients must be approached with close supervision and considerable caution.

The important factor when dealing with common cannabis side effects is simply to remain calm, breathe slowly, and relax. Most of the cannabis side effects noted opposite are associated with THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient. By using cannabis medicines that also contain CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, some of the following THC side effects might be reduced or eliminated altogether.

Patients who are either new to cannabis medicines or who have accidently overmedicated can occasionally experience a condition called postural or orthostatic hypotension. After using cannabis, especially at high doses, this can result in sudden lightheadedness or loss of consciousness upon standing from a seated or reclining position. It can be particularly dangerous if the person topples onto a hard surface. Suddenly passing out upon standing up has become increasingly common among users of highly concentrated cannabis oils. It has also been observed that, while reclining, novice cannabis users tend to experience an upward spike in their blood pressure. This spike should be noted with particular caution if elevated blood pressure is potentially an issue.