Study: Cannabinoids are not linked to «serious cardiovascular effects».

Consumption of cannabis is not associated with an increased risk of 'serious cardiovascular effects», according to a meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association.

«The aim of this study was to assess cardiovascular toxicity associated with the medical use of cannabinoids,» write the authors, who note that «several systematic reviews (SRs) have summarized the potential efficacy of medical cannabinoids, but it is unclear to what extent safety-related findings have been incorporated.»

A team of clinicians analyzed a total of 47 studies involving 2,800 patients. 45% of the studies excluded patients with underlying cardiovascular disease, they noted.

Although cannabis use was «significantly associated with increased risks» of non-serious problems such as orthostatic hypotension and hypotension (low blood pressure), as well as «a trend towards increased risk» of tachycardia (accelerated heart rate), the researchers noted that none of the studies reviewed found 'serious cardiovascular effects».

Despite the apparently promising clinical data, the team of Thai and American researchers urged patients to exercise caution. The studies were not long-term, with the median trial lasting just 15.8 days, and trial subjects typically consumed oral doses of cannabis extracts or synthetic cannabinoids (including THC).

In comparison, many medical marijuana choose to consume their medication by inhalation, and often use cannabis as a treatment for longer than a little over two weeks.

«There is a paucity of data regarding other cardiovascular events in medical cannabis users,» the study concludes. «More data are needed, particularly regarding long-term effects in patients already suffering from cardiovascular disease.»