Marijuana

There seems to be a feeling that because marijuana is legal in certain states, that it is benign.

I have posted previously that Marijuana can cause potentially lethal heart rhythm problems in adolescents, raises blood pressure and heart rate

Today this review and statement were published by the American College of Cardiology

>2 million Americans with existing heart disease are using Marijuana

What are the risks?

• Marijuana inhibits the liver metabolism of virtually all cardiac drugs which use a system call CYP 3A4; this means you can get build up of the cardiac medication in your system!
• In addition, Marijuana affects the PGp system in our gut; this is another way we eliminate medications from our gut
• Short term use of THC* causes down regulation; your body will be unable to eliminate certain heart medications and the levels can rise in your system
• Long term use cause up regulation; your heart medications will be less effective because they are eliminated from your body rapidly and this might put you at risk of stroke, or worse

The authors report the 3 most triggers for heart attacks in the US are:

• Eating a heavy meal
• Marijuana
• Cocaine

All cardiologists are advised to screen and ask their patients about the use of marijuana

Many substances are legal in US and in many countries: cigarettes, vaping, marijuana.

This absolutely does not mean that they are safe!

LAMSA’s note: Thank you Dr Khan for your collaboration