A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine has shed light on a concerning trend: marijuana overdoses are rising sharply among seniors in Canada. Researchers examined emergency department (ED) visits for cannabis poisoning among individuals 65 and older over an eight-year period. The findings were stark – poisonings doubled after Canada legalised the sale of marijuana flower, and then tripled after edibles were introduced.

While the study focused on Canada, the implications for the United States are significant. Recreational marijuana is legal in 24 states and Washington D.C., with medicinal use legalised in 38 states and Washington D.C. Additionally, the Biden administration is considering reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I drug (considered to have high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use) to Schedule III (recognised medical benefits but still potential for abuse). This wouldn’t legalise it federally, but could make it more accessible.

The Canadian data serves as a cautionary tale for the US healthcare system and policymakers. Marijuana use carries risks, particularly for older adults. Here’s a breakdown of the key concerns:

• Misuse: Edibles, which resemble familiar foods like cookies or candies, can be mistaken for regular snacks, leading to accidental overdoses.
• Drug Interactions: Seniors often take medications for chronic conditions. Marijuana can interact with these medications, impacting how the body processes them.
• Increased Health Risks: Marijuana use can have negative effects on mental health, potentially triggering psychosis or worsening existing conditions. Research also suggests a link between marijuana use and an increased risk of heart failure, heart attack, and stroke, especially for older adults.

The Potency Problem

The concentration of THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana responsible for many of its effects, has risen significantly in recent decades. Edible products can contain dangerously high THC levels, further amplifying the risk of overdose. Symptoms of overdose include nausea, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, and balance problems.

The Schedule I classification of marijuana has hampered in-depth research on its long-term health effects. Reclassification could pave the way for more studies, but it could also normalise marijuana use, potentially leading to an increase in negative health consequences across the population.

The potential benefits of reclassifying marijuana should be weighed against the potential public health risks. The Canadian study highlights the need for increased public education, particularly for seniors, about the dangers of marijuana use. Additionally, healthcare providers need to be aware of the potential for interactions with medications and the increased vulnerability of older adults.

Source

Forbes