Impacts and Adverse Reactions of Edible Substances: Insights and Precautions to Consider
In the realm of cannabis consumption, two popular methods have emerged: smoking and consuming edibles. While both have their unique advantages and risks, it's essential to understand the long-term effects of each method to make informed decisions.
Smoking cannabis carries a risk of lung health damage due to inhaling smoke and harmful particulates. This can result in chronic bronchitis, lung lining damage, increased phlegm, wheezing, and an increased susceptibility to lung infections. Moreover, long-term use may lead to cognitive impairments, such as memory loss, lower IQ, and a potential trigger for schizophrenia or other mental health disorders in genetically vulnerable individuals. Other risks include addiction, sleep difficulties, decreased heart health, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Furthermore, smoking cannabis may elevate the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular complications.
On the other hand, cannabis edibles avoid the lung damage associated with smoking since they do not involve inhaling smoke. However, they produce a more intense and prolonged high, lasting 6-8 hours typically, which may increase the risks of negative cognitive and psychological effects, especially with heavy or irresponsible use. Similar to smoking, heavy long-term edible use is associated with increased risks of depression, psychosis, and cognitive impairments, particularly in younger users with developing brains. While less well studied, consuming cannabis in food or drinks might still carry cardiovascular risks, but these are currently less well understood than those caused by smoking.
Here's a summary of the key differences between the two methods:
| Aspect | Smoking Cannabis | Cannabis Edibles | |----------------------------|------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------| | **Lung health** | Risk of chronic bronchitis, lung damage, infection | No smoke exposure, thus no lung inhalation risk | | **Cognitive impairment** | Memory loss, lower IQ, possible schizophrenia onset | Similar cognitive risks, possibly heightened due to stronger, longer-lasting effects | | **Mental health** | Increased risk of mental illness in vulnerable users | Increased risk (depression, psychosis), particularly in heavy, long-term users | | **Cardiovascular risk** | Elevated risk of heart attack and stroke | Potential risk exists but less well understood | | **Addiction & other risks** | Addiction, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, sleep issues | Addiction possible; risk profile less defined but psychological risks significant |
It is crucial to note that both methods can lead to addiction and cardiovascular health issues, though the risks related to smoking on lung health are unique to inhalation methods. Furthermore, edibles can interact with alcohol and some medications, potentially intensifying THC effects or interfering with medication actions.
Cannabis edibles are food products that contain cannabis, and like other forms of the drug, they contain the active compound THC and cannabidiol (CBD). CBD, a non-psychoactive compound, may work as a pain reliever and has anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that oral cannabinoids can reduce pain and spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis. Additionally, a study of 72 adults with anxiety or sleep problems found that more than 79% who took CBD experienced a decrease in symptoms. Some individuals also use cannabis to minimize the symptoms of cancer or the side effects of cancer treatment.
However, edibles do not come without risks. For instance, it is possible to take too much cannabis when consuming it in food, leading to overdose or cannabis poisoning. The symptoms of overdose from edibles can include nausea, paranoia, hallucinations, panic attacks, and impaired mobility. Moreover, accidental ingestion of edibles poses a risk, particularly to children and pets.
In conclusion, while edibles avoid the pulmonary risks associated with smoking, they can produce more intense and longer-lasting effects that may increase the risk of adverse cognitive and mental health outcomes if not used cautiously. It's essential to approach both methods with care and education to mitigate potential risks and optimize the benefits of cannabis use.
[1] Hall, W. (2016). Marijuana: The unbiased truth about the world's most popular weed. New York: Skyhorse Publishing. [2] Johnson, J. R., Burnell-Nugent, M., Lossignol, D., Ganae-Motan, E. D., Potts, R., & Fallon, M. T. (2010). Multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of THC:CBD extract and THC extract in patients with intractable cancer-related pain. Journal of pain and symptom management, 39(8), 1159-1171. [3] Russo, E. B. (2008). Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 4(1), 245-259. [4] Purdue University. (2020). Edibles: A growing concern. Retrieved from https://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/purduelive/stories/2019/q4/edibles-a-growing-concern.html [5] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Marijuana: Frequently asked questions. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana
- In addition to lung and cognitive health issues, bipolar disorder, ankylosing spondylitis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and other chronic diseases might be predictive of a person's response to cannabis consumption.
- Depression, hepatitis, sclerosis, Crohn's disease, spondylitis, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, cancer, respiratory conditions like COPD, digestive health issues, and eye health concerns are among the medical conditions that could be affected by cannabis use.
- The use of cannabis supplements might play a role in workplace-wellness programs, particularly for managing chronic kidney disease, migraines, cardiovascular health, and neurological disorders.
- Science continues to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabis for various medical conditions, including autoimmune disorders, mental health issues, skin conditions, and therapies and treatments for multiple sclerosis.
- Nutrition and weight management are essential factors to consider when using cannabis, as its potential effects on these aspects could impact overall health and wellness.
- Cannabis consumption might have interactions with other medicare-covered medical conditions and medications, so it's crucial to discuss its use with healthcare providers.
- While the use of CBD, a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, has shown promise in managing pain, reducing spasticity in multiple sclerosis, and addressing anxiety or sleep problems, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and side effects.
- CBD might offer potential benefits for people with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders due to its anti-inflammatory properties.9.skin-care products containing cannabis or CBD may provide relief for certain skin conditions, but the scientific evidence supporting these claims is still limited.
- Caution should be exercised when using cannabis edibles, as they can lead to unexpectedly intense and prolonged effects, potentially resulting in overdose or cannabis poisoning.
- Accidental ingestion of cannabis edibles can pose a risk, especially to children and pets, so proper storage and labeling are important.
- In the realm of mental health, cannabis use may exacerbate symptoms of depression, psychosis, and schizophrenia, particularly with heavy or irresponsible use.
- Regular use of cannabis might increase the risk of developing hearing problems, as cannabis consumption has been linked to temporary or permanent hearing loss in some studies.
- It is essential to achieve a balanced approach to health and wellness when considering cannabis consumption, taking into account its potential benefits and risks for various aspects like cognitive function, mental health, and overall health.
- The science behind the long-term effects of cannabis consumption and its interaction with other chronic diseases is still evolving, so ongoing research and education are vital to inform informed decisions.
- As cannabis laws and regulations continue to change, it becomes increasingly important for individuals to educate themselves about the potential risks and benefits of cannabis use, as well as seek guidance from healthcare professionals when necessary.
- In many workplaces, cannabis use might be regarded differently depending on local laws and company policies, so employees should be aware of any potential workplace implications when considering cannabis consumption.
- Hearing protection should be considered when using cannabis, particularly through smoking methods, as the risk of temporary or permanent hearing loss may be elevated.
- While some studies suggest the potential of cannabis in managing symptoms of certain diseases like cancer and the side effects of cancer treatment, the overall long-term impacts on health are still a topic of ongoing research.
- With the increasing popularity of cannabis consumption, the public's understanding of its potential benefits and risks should continue to grow, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
