Experts Warn That Cannabis Can Interfere With Certain Heart Medications

A warning was issued out to patients who are taking heart medication and who may be consuming cannabis at the same time. Professionals have discovered that using cannabis with certain types of heart medication may have some serious risks for the patient. Dr. Muthiah Vaduganathan has led the study that discovered alterations in the efficacy of the medication when taken in conjunction with cannabis use. 

The base of this warning is due to the fact that these certain heart medications and cannabis are broken down in the liver by the same enzymes. Cannabis can then increase the time the medication stays in the body, effectively increasing the dose. 

Understand the Potential Risks

One of the results from a study displayed that Warfarin, a popular blood thinner, must reduce their doses to avoid excessive bleeding, particularly when consuming cannabis too.  Cannabis can also lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure if the medication isn’t modified. 

Dr. Vaduganathan released details of the various medications and cardiovascular conditions they’re administered for. These details outline the medications anticipated interaction with cannabis and Dr. Vaduganathan hopes that it will be helpful to cardiologists and pharmacists when treating patients who consume cannabis and have heart conditions. Unfortunately, to access the article, you would need to purchase it.

The professionals further explained that higher-risk patients who present conditions such as heart attacks and arrhythmia should avoid cannabis altogether to avoid being hospitalized with heart failure. 

Examples of Common Cardiovascular Conditions:

• Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
• Congenital heart disease
• Heart Attack
• Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease)
• Stroke

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in many parts of the world and it is very important that you are cautious with your condition and cannabis consumption. 

If You Take Heart Medication and Consume Cannabis, Be Cautious

Your physician may be able to tailor your treatment to allow you to continue consuming cannabis which is why it’s important for you to discuss your cannabis consumption with your doctors to avoid any complications and danger. 

It has been suggested that the edible consumption of cannabis is much safer than smoking or vaping it. Eating cannabis can assist in reducing stress which contributes to healthier hearts. Although, if you are to continue down this path, you are advised to reduce excessive use and to take the minimal amount to achieve what you’re taking it for. 

Even though we know that cannabis can have adverse effects on certain heart medications, we still don’t know for certain which ones those are. More research is mandatory but heart conditions are too serious to do anything risky with, especially if adverse have already begun to surface with cannabis consumption and the medication you take. 

The lack of research would demand that you be extra cautious with regards to your heart condition and cannabis. There are also only a few studies available on how cannabis impacts the heart itself.  If this news is letting you down because you consume cannabis and are suffering through a cardiac condition, speak to your doctor and make the appropriate treatment alterations.