A recent study spanning two decades reveals that cannabis users may experience better outcomes after heart attacks compared to non-users, challenging the long-held belief that cannabis could exacerbate heart problems.

The study, published in the Archives of Medical Science Atherosclerosis Diseases, analyzed data from over 9 million acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, identifying 117,641 cannabis users. The results indicated that cannabis users had lower odds of atrial fibrillation, ventricular fibrillation, cardiogenic shock and in-hospital mortality, presenting a potential shift in understanding the substance's impact on heart health.

Cannabis Users Show Fewer Heart Complications

Contrary to common concerns linking cannabis with increased heart risks, the study suggests a paradox where users show a reduced likelihood of severe complications post-heart attack. This includes lower occurrences of procedures like percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) and intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) usage.

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Interestingly, the study revealed that cannabis users were generally younger, which may influence the lower prevalence of concurrent comorbidities like hypertension and diabetes, which are prevalent in older populations. Despite the higher incidence of risky behaviors such as smoking and alcohol use among cannabis users, the study adjusted for these factors through propensity score matching and multivariate regression models, ensuring the results specifically highlighted the effects of cannabis.

Exploring the 'Cannabis Paradox' In Heart Health

This study's findings are particularly relevant as cannabis gains social acceptance and legal status in many regions. The observed "cannabis paradox" mirrors the "smoker's paradox," where smokers unexpectedly show better short-term survival after AMI compared to non-smokers. Researchers hypothesize that activation of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) might offer cardioprotection, which could explain the improved outcomes among cannabis users.

However, the authors caution that despite these promising results, the potential underreporting of cannabis use and other limitations mean that further research is necessary. They advocate for more comprehensive studies to explore the intricate effects of cannabis on cardiovascular health, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of its clinical and therapeutic implications.

Therapeutic Effects For Older Patients

Furthermore, the latest findings on cannabis users' improved heart attack outcomes align with growing evidence of the plant's therapeutic benefits, as seen in a recent study on older patients using cannabis for chronic pain conducted by Tilray Medical, a division of Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:TLRY). Both studies highlight cannabis's evolving role in enhancing health outcomes.

• Medical Cannabis Patients Increased Sixfold In Six Years, Declined In States Where Recreational Use Was Legalized

Photo: Benzinga edit of images by Robina Weermeijer and Paul Einerhand on Unsplash.