Medical cannabis use is increasing in Florida among older individuals due to robust research regarding its beneficial aspects. After the Compassionate Care Act in 2016, many medical marijuana services are being offered in the state to address the ongoing demand for marijuana products. However, patients are advised to comply with the state policies and get a medical marijuana card in Naples. Nonetheless, the side effects of the drug must not be ignored, especially for those who are above the age of 50.
In this article, we will discuss whether it is safe to use cannabis for over 50 years of individuals.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana is derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant and contains essential substances known as cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
To function, the cannabinoids in cannabis bind to particular locations on the brain and nerves, thereby altering pain perception and other functions.
Medical marijuana constitutes more than hundreds of cannabinoids, yet the most researched are THC and CBD. In the modern era, many people are turning to cannabis to manage pain, depression and multiple sclerosis (MS) among other health conditions.
In addition, it is being explored for several other ailments, including migraines, nausea, and vomiting, Sickle cell anemia and even neurological disorders. However, the effectiveness of marijuana for such ailments requires further introspection.
Factors Affecting Medical Marijuana Use
Every person responds to marijuana differently depending on several variables, including:
- potency and quantity of the drug
- How you use marijuana i.e. by ingestion, vaping, or smoking
- The duration and frequency of marijuana use
- Use of other substances in addition to prescription medication
- Genetics
- age
- gender
If you note any unusual changes in your body after consuming MMJ, it is essential to talk to a healthcare expert. Delayed treatment can lead to various health complications and aggravated symptoms.
Medical Cannabis and the Aging Human Body
Many variables, such as an individual’s age, marijuana form or strain, and usage patterns, affect how the body metabolizes the drug. Older adults, compared to younger individuals, have slower metabolisms, which also applies to cannabis. Moreover, older brains are generally more susceptible to chemical substances, particularly illicit drugs.
Marijuana use, in both elderly individuals and younger populations, is linked to various health concerns, including:
- Chronic respiratory disorders: Using marijuana smokables or vapes can irritate the lungs and lead to respiratory problems.
- Depression: While some studies suggest marijuana may help ease symptoms, others indicate a potential link to depression.
- Memory problems: Marijuana can impair short-term memory and learning abilities.
- Altered motor skills and judgment: Marijuana can affect coordination, balance, and decision-making abilities.
Although, marijuana can be helpful for patients coping with various health disorders, its use without a healthcare expert’s discretion is not advised. Moreover, you must take help from an MMJ expert to use THC/CBD in optimum doses and avoid any side effects of misuse.
Adverse Reactions with Drugs
Older persons are generally more prone to suffer from chronic health diseases that require prescription medication, such as memory loss, mood disorders, and heart and lung problems. Combining marijuana with prescription drugs can exacerbate pre-existing health conditions or make them worse.
Moreover, cannabis can negatively react with blood thinners and anti-seizure medications, leaving unfavorable health effects.
1. Cardiovascular Risks:
Research suggests that marijuana use can increase blood pressure and heart rate. If you unintentionally consume a high dosage of cannabis and you are a heart patient, you may be at risk of experiencing a cardiac episode.
2. Brain Function:
As people age, their cognitive health begins to deteriorate. When you combine that with the way marijuana affects the brain, you run a higher risk of disorientation, memory problems, and problems with judgment, coordination, and reaction speed. Older persons are more vulnerable to falls, collisions, and other accidents than younger people.
Cannabis and Aging: Considerations for Older Adults
Interestingly, medical marijuana use is popular among older persons. However, more data and clinical research are required to enhance the health and well-being of those over 50. Among some important facts to consider are:
- The way that cannabis affects older persons can change as they age. Our bodies and minds start to function less quickly as we get older. Some of these modifications will impact the body’s metabolism of THC and CBD.
- Reduced kidney function may have an impact on the body’s ability to eliminate substances, including cannabis.
- The liver’s ability to work and the digestive system’s slowness impact how the body absorbs and excretes cannabis.
- As people age, they become more susceptible to falls and injuries owing to changes in muscles, bones, and sensory organs. Due to this, there would be an increased risk when using THC.
- For people with cardiac disorders, it is best to consult with a medical marijuana doctor before taking cannabis. This is mainly because cannabis use may increase the chance of a cardiac event such as an arrhythmia, angina, a heart attack, or a stroke.
Safety is crucial
Before you start using cannabis, try to learn as much as you can about marijuana from your medical marijuana doctor. A well-reputed MMJ doctor can guide you regarding the correct dosage, product types and what suits you best based on your health status. Moreover, you must get your medical marijuana card to use any form of medical marijuana in Florida.
Conclusion
The usage of cannabis among older adults above 50 is increasing due to increased societal acceptance of MMJ. However, it is essential to consider the safety concerns related to medical marijuana. Thus, you must consult with an MMJ doctor. Doctor consultation can be beneficial particularly if you have heart problems, are on medication, or experience age-related cognitive decline. Consequently, My Florida Green doctors can assist you in getting a valid marijuana card in Naples. Moreover, they can educate you on the responsible use of cannabis, even if you are over 50.
