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Are there any risks associated with high doses of cannabis in AS? 

Author: Dr. Stefan Petrov, MBBS

While cannabis can offer significant relief for ankylosing spondylitis, exceeding recommended levels can bring real concerns. Unlike microdosing cannabis, high doses increase the likelihood of unwanted side effects like dizziness, anxiety, cognitive dulling, and fatigue, especially for patients with lower tolerance. 

Using dose tracking tools is one of the most effective ways to avoid these outcomes. Many clinicians recommend beginning with a very low starting dose, especially when using THC-dominant products, and only increasing after monitoring symptom response and tolerability. 

Potential Dosing Risks and How to Minimise Them 

To stay safe while using cannabis therapeutically, keep these points in mind: 

Avoid rapid increases 

Escalating your dose too quickly increases the chance of negative effects, especially with THC. 

Use tracking apps or journals 

Dose tracking tools help patients spot patterns and manage dosage more precisely. 

Know your ideal dose range 

Start low and go slow. For many, microdosing cannabis proves just as effective without the side effects. 

Consult with your provider 

Never adjust long-term use without expert input, especially when treating chronic inflammatory conditions like AS. 

Visit providers like LeafEase to receive personalised guidance on avoiding dosing risks and finding your optimal dose. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Ankylosing Spondylitis and medical cannabis.

Dr. Stefan Petrov, MBBS
Author

Dr. Stefan Petrov is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and postgraduate certifications including Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (PLAB 1 & 2). He has hands-on experience in general medicine, surgery, anaesthesia, ophthalmology, and emergency care. Dr. Petrov has worked in both hospital wards and intensive care units, performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and has contributed to medical education by creating patient-focused health content and teaching clinical skills to junior doctors.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

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