High Blood Pressure And Marijuana
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
In recent years, the conversation around marijuana and its various health implications has intensified. Among the array of conditions discussed, high blood pressure stands out due to its prevalence and the potential risks it poses to patients’ health.
This article will explore the intricate relationship between marijuana usage and high blood pressure, shedding light on the research that has examined this complex relationship. With millions of people worldwide grappling with hypertension, understanding how cannabis consumption can influence this condition is more crucial than ever.
Does Marijuana Lower Blood Pressure?
Research on the effects of marijuana on blood pressure has produced mixed results, making it a subject of ongoing debate among medical professionals.
Some studies suggest that marijuana can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure immediately after consumption. However, other research indicates that long-term users may develop a tolerance, potentially leading to lower blood pressure over time.
It’s important to note that the type of marijuana that’s consumed, the amount, and the user’s overall health and lifestyle can significantly influence its impact on blood pressure.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Using Weed for Blood Pressure?
While some studies suggest that marijuana may have long-term benefits for blood pressure, its usage comes with potential risks and side effects. Namely, the psychoactive effects of THC can induce anxiety and paranoia in some users, potentially generating stress-related blood pressure spikes.
Other side effects of marijuana use include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dry mouth and eyes
- Increased appetite
- Short-term memory impairment
- Impaired motor skills
- Increased heart rate
- Long-term effects on mood (including risk of depression or anxiety in susceptible individuals)
- Possible dependency or addiction (particularly in users with a history of substance abuse)
Can Marijuana Cause High Blood Pressure?
Some studies suggest that immediately after marijuana is consumed, it can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure due to THC’s stimulation of the heart rate. However, this initial spike is often followed by a reduction in blood pressure, which could be attributed to the vasodilating effects of marijuana.
Weed’s long-term effects are less clear, with some evidence indicating a potential for chronic use to contribute to elevated blood pressure over time, while others show minimal to no significant impact on blood pressure.
Due to the wide variety of strains, modes of consumption, and individual physiological responses at play, more comprehensive research is needed to fully understand weed’s impact on blood pressure.
Does Quitting Marijuana Raise Blood Pressure?
Quitting marijuana can have various effects on blood pressure, though research on this specific area is somewhat limited.
Initial studies and anecdotal evidence indicate some individuals may experience a temporary increase in blood pressure immediately after ceasing marijuana use. This phenomenon is often attributed to withdrawal symptoms, which can induce stress and anxiety and elevate former users’ blood pressure.
However, these effects are typically short-lived, and blood pressure levels tend to normalize as the body adjusts to the absence of marijuana over time.
Does THC or CBD Help with Blood Pressure?
Recent studies suggest that CBD may have a positive effect on blood pressure, offering a potential natural remedy for those struggling with hypertension. Unlike its counterpart, THC, which has psychoactive properties, CBD does not produce a “high” and has demonstrated an ability to reduce stress and anxiety, which are closely linked to high blood pressure.
Preliminary research indicates that CBD may help dilate blood vessels, allowing for smoother blood flow and lower blood pressure. On the other hand, the effects of THC on blood pressure can vary, with some studies suggesting it may initially increase blood pressure and heart rate before leading to a potential decrease.
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We prioritize compassion and patient education to ensure your peace of mind throughout your experience with us. Choosing the Sanctuary means opting for a seamless, straightforward journey to your medical cannabis card.
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How we reviewed this article:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020). Heart Health
https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/heart-health.html - Ran Abuhasira, Yosef S Haviv, Merav Leiba, Adi Leiba, Larisa Ryvo, & Victor Novack (2021). Cannabis is associated with blood pressure reduction in older adults – A 24-hours ambulatory blood pressure monitoring study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33483174/ - Omayma ALSHAARAWY and Hosam A. ELBAZ (2017). Cannabis Use and Blood Pressure Levels: United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2005–2012
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5237375/ - Alexandre Vallée (2023). Association between cannabis use and blood pressure levels according to comorbidities and socioeconomic status
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-22841-6 - American Heart Association News (2020). As marijuana use grows, researchers want to know how it affects the heart
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/04/20/as-marijuana-use-grows-researchers-want-to-know-how-it-affects-the-heart
Current Version
March 13, 2024
Updated By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
First Published
March 9, 2022
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Other Posts About Medical Marijuana Conditions
Jake Peter received his journalism degree from Emerson College and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2021. He is passionate about all things cannabis.