Medical cannabis is known for its potential therapeutic benefits for a variety of medical conditions. However its use may lead to side effects, varying widely among individuals based on several factors including the type of cannabis, administration method, dosage, and individual physiological responses. In regions like Portugal and the UK where medical cannabis is legal under prescription, understanding these side effects is crucial for safe and informed consumption.

Common Side Effects

Psychoactive Effects

Primarily associated with THC, users may experience mood changes, memory impairment, altered time sense, and sometimes, anxiety or paranoia (Volkow et al., 2014). These effects tend to diminish with lower THC products or higher CBD ratios.

Cognitive Impairment

Prolonged use, especially of high-THC strains, may affect cognitive functions, impacting attention, memory, and learning (Meier et al., 2012). Patients should consider strains with balanced cannabinoid profiles to mitigate these risks.

Dizziness and Orthostatic Hypotension

Cannabis can cause blood pressure drops, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. This side effect is particularly common in older adults (Jadoon et al., 2017). Staying hydrated and changing positions slowly can help minimize these effects.

Dry Mouth and Eyes

Reduction in saliva and tear production can cause "cottonmouth" and dry or red eyes (Whiting et al., 2015). Regular hydration and the use of lubricating eye drops are effective remedies.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

While often used to manage nausea and increase appetite, paradoxical effects such as nausea, vomiting, or appetite changes can occur (Klein et al., 2011). Patients should consult their healthcare provider if these symptoms persist.

Less Common Side Effects

Potential for Dependence

Some individuals may develop a dependence, especially with frequent high-THC product use (Volkow et al., 2014). Awareness and regulated use under medical supervision can significantly reduce this risk.

Respiratory Issues

Smoking cannabis can lead to respiratory problems, though non-smoking methods like vaporization or oral ingestion mitigate these risks (Tetrault et al., 2007). In both Portugal and the United Kingdom, vaporization is encouraged.

Mental Health Risks

High doses or use in predisposed individuals can exacerbate or contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or psychosis (Murray et al., 2017). It is vital to discuss these risks with a healthcare professional before starting medical cannabis.

FAQs

Can medical cannabis cause addiction?
While having a lower dependency potential, frequent use of high-THC products may lead to cannabis dependence.

Are the psychoactive effects of medical cannabis avoidable?
Yes, by choosing strains or products with low THC and higher CBD content, the psychoactive effects can be minimized.

How can I mitigate the dry mouth effect from medical cannabis?
Staying hydrated and using saliva-promoting products can help alleviate dry mouth.

Is it safe to drive after using medical cannabis?
Due to its potential psychoactive and cognitive effects, it's advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after cannabis use.

Conclusion

While medical cannabis offers significant therapeutic potential, awareness of its side effects is essential for safe and effective use. Both Portugal and the UK are emerging as key markets for medical cannabis, where regulatory oversight ensures quality and safety. Careful selection of strains, dosages and methods of administration, along with close monitoring can help minimize side effects.

To ensure the safest and most effective treatment, download the pH7 Patients app today. The platform connects you with qualified doctors specializing in medical cannabis, offering personalized consultations and access to legitimate prescriptions. Take control of your health journey with expert guidance and trusted resources.

Bibliography

Jadoon, K. A. et al. (2017). Diabetes Care.

Klein, T. W. et al. (2011). Frontiers in Pharmacology.

Meier, M. H. et al. (2012). Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Murray, R. M. et al. (2017). World Psychiatry.

Tetrault, J. M. et al. (2007). Archives of Internal Medicine.

Volkow, N. D. et al. (2014). New England Journal of Medicine.

Whiting, P. F. et al. (2015). JAMA.

Disclaimer

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using cannabis for medicinal purposes. For personalized medical guidance, consult a licensed healthcare provider through the pH7 app. pH7 is a technology platform connecting patients with doctors specializing in medical cannabis, providing legitimate medical consultations and access to digital prescriptions.

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