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Are there cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use for arthritis? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Dr. Clarissa Morton, PharmD

Concerns about the cardiovascular risk of cannabis in arthritis are valid, especially for older adults exploring cannabis as a pain management option. While it can offer relief for joint pain and inflammation, its effects on heart health are still under close investigation. 

Research suggests that THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure. For elderly patients, cannabis use may carry a slightly higher risk if there’s a history of cardiovascular conditions like arrhythmias or hypertension. However, CBD, another major compound, has shown a more neutral or even calming effect on the heart in some studies. 

Medical Cannabis: Alternative to pain relief?

What to Watch Out For 

  • Increased heart rate 
    Some users report palpitations or racing heart shortly after using THC-dominant products. 
    This response may increase the cardiovascular risk of cannabis arthritis in patients with pre-existing heart issues. 
  • Dizziness or low blood pressure 
    Cannabis may occasionally cause light-headedness, especially when standing up. 
    This can pose additional risks for older adults who use cannabis and are already prone to balance issues or falls. 
  • Interaction with medications 
    Cannabis can interact with anticoagulants or heart medicines, potentially altering their effectiveness. 
    It’s crucial to review heart health and cannabis use with a knowledgeable clinician. 

CBD products with minimal or no THC may offer a safer alternative for those concerned about heart strain, but medical supervision is crucial. 

For expert guidance on cannabis side effects, and tailored prescriptions, visit providers like LeafEase for personal consultations and support. 

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

Dr. Clarissa Morton, PharmD
Author

Dr. Clarissa Morton is a licensed pharmacist with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and experience across hospital, community, and industrial pharmacy. She has worked in emergency, outpatient, and inpatient pharmacy settings, providing patient counseling, dispensing medications, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Alongside her pharmacy expertise, she has worked as a Support Plan & Risk Assessment (SPRA) officer and in medical coding, applying knowledge of medical terminology, EMIS, and SystmOne software to deliver accurate, compliant healthcare documentation. Her skills span medication safety, regulatory standards, healthcare data management, and statistical reporting.

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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