Condition
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Medicinal cannabis has been shown to assist with the anxiety and/or behavioural symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
ASD patients suffer from varying levels of symptom severity. While no 2 ASD patients are exactly alike, they typically lack the ability to fully interact with their environment and those around them. As debilitating as this can be, there are no specific medical disease complications linked to ASD, and patients suffering from ASD have a normal life expectancy. However, these patients do have an elevated risk of suffering injury resulting from associated behaviours/outbursts.
Conditions classified under autism spectrum disorder include:
- Autism
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
IBD
Research has shown that medicinal cannabis can be useful in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) symptoms such as loss of appetite and poor sleep quality.
IBD refers to medical conditions that result in intestinal inflammation, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Untreated, IBD can lead to bowel cancer, intestinal abscesses, fistulas and/or vitamin/mineral deficiencies.
Learn MorePalliative Care
Palliative care is a form of multidisciplinary medical care with the aim of maximizing quality of life by managing symptoms such as pain and emotional distress in patients who have terminal illnesses or are otherwise receiving end of life care.
Research indicates that cannabis medicine may be an effective treatment option for a variety of symptoms related to palliative care, such as:
- Chronic Pain
- Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting
- Loss of Appetite/Wasting
- Sleep Disturbance
- Depression
- Anxiety
Insomnia
In countries where medical cannabis is regulated, sleep disturbance is among the top concerns prioritized by health care providers specializing in cannabinoid medicine. Research has shown that patient use of cannabis medicine is associated with significant improvements in perceived insomnia.
Insomnia is a common form of sleep disturbance often aggravated by stress/trauma or pain. Many adults experience some symptoms of insomnia that can persist for days, weeks, or years.
Learn MoreAnxiety
In jurisdictions where access to medical cannabis is permitted, anxiety is among the most common conditions for which patients seek cannabinoid treatment.
Anxiety is part of the human body’s natural ‘fight or flight’ response to a perceived threat. While this response can be beneficial in moments of genuine danger, data suggests that a significant portion of the population experience excessive fear/worry disproportionate to the realities of a given situation, such as public speaking. Patients who experience this heightened fear/worry that persists after the perceived threat has passed, may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. These feelings of anxiousness can impact a patient’s ability to cope with daily life. When left untreated, anxiety can negatively impact work and/or social activities, significantly reducing one’s quality of life.
Learn MoreMultiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the body’s central nervous system. The immune system causes damage to nerve fibres and their myelin coating.
Research indicated that cannabis medicine s may be useful in relieving symptoms of MS such as:
- Muscle Spasticity
- Chronic Pain
- Neuropathic Pain
- Bladder Control Issues
- Poor Sleep Quality
- Limited Mobility
- Reduced Quality of Life
Differing forms of MS include:
Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) – Most common form of MS (affects nearly ¾ of MS patients). Periods of relapses/episodes are followed by periods of remission.
Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS) – Common in patients with RRMS. Patients experience progressively worsening periods of relapse and partial recovery.
Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) – Less common form of MS. Patients experience gradual and persistent worsening of symptoms.
Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS) – A condition that can lead to MS. Inflammatory demyelination in the central nervous system produces neurologic symptoms.
Learn MoreMigraines
Medicinal cannabis has been shown to be useful in treating patients suffering from recurrent migraines.
Migraines are a neurological disorder resulting in pulsing/throbbing headaches of moderate to severe intensity. Episodes can vary significantly in frequency and intensity.
Left untreated, migraines can lead to:
- Reduced Quality of Life
- Increased Rates of Depression
- Anxiety Disorders
- Panic Disorder
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- Stroke
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain is the result of damaged nerves and/or nervous system problems. When a patient suffers nerve damage from an injury, pain signaling can persist well beyond the healing time of the initial injury.
Studies involving patients suffering from neuropathic pain have found that using a combination of THC and CBD can cause a significant reduction of pain symptoms as well as improved sleep quality.
Learn MoreIBS
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a group of gastrointestinal disorders associated with abdominal discomfort/pain and irregular bowel habits.
Research shows that the endocannabinoid system is involved in the regulation of certain gastrointestinal functions such as motility, sensation and secretion. Cannabis medicine can also manage inflammation and symptoms of cramping and/or abdominal pain.
Learn MoreCancer Related Pain
Research suggests that cannabinoids can suppress pain by activating the CB1 receptor in the body’s endocannabinoid system. In global markets where medical cannabis is regulated, pain resulting from cancer is among the first symptoms prioritized by health care providers specializing in cannabinoid medicine.
Pain can afflict patients with cancer through not only the condition itself, but also treatments such as:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
Cancer patients may also experience:
- Nerve/Neuropathic Pain
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep Disturbance
- Difficulty Performing Activities of Daily Life
When Should Cannabis Medicine Be Avoided
Cannabis medicine, as any other medication, is not appropriate for all patients, as for some the potential risks can outweigh the overall benefits. Research has identified the following as specific conditions/patient groups where medical cannabis treatment should be approached with caution or avoided entirely:
Anxiety & THC
- THC has been shown to cause brief yet acute episodes of anxiety, particularly when used in high doses and when CBD is not used in conjunction. Patients with pre-existing symptoms of anxiety should avoid products containing moderate to high concentrations of THC.
History Of Mental Illness:
- Medical cannabis use can be unsafe for patients with a personal/family history of certain mental health conditions. Cannabis has the potential to lead to the onset or worsening of conditions such as:
- Mood Disorders
- Personality Disorders
- Psychotic illnesses
Psychosis/Schizophrenia
- Patients suffering from or with a family history of schizophrenia may be at greater risk of suffering adverse psychiatric effects as a result of using psychoactive cannabinoids such as THC.
- If suffering from schizophrenia, mania or severe depression, patients should only use medical cannabis under the careful psychiatric monitoring of a qualified health care professional.
- CBD has the potential to be utilized as an antipsychotic, however further research is needed to qualify this conclusion.
Cardiovascular Conditions
- Use of medical cannabis should be approached with caution in patients with unstable cardiac conditions such as angina, arrhythmias, and ischemic heart disease.
- Patients with severe cardiopulmonary disease may experience hypotension, hypertension, syncope or tachycardia.
- When cannabis products are smoked, THC may cause peripheral vasodilatation, postural hypotension, and characteristic conjunctival reddening.
- Currently the potential cardiovascular risks of using products containing only CBD are unknown.
Respiratory Disease
- Patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should avoid smoking cannabis, and consider safer alternatives such as vaporization or ingestion.
Concomitant Therapy:
- Medical cannabis use has a potential for additive/synergistic CNS depressant or psychoactive effects in patients receiving concomitant therapy with psychoactive medications.
Pregnant & Breastfeeding
- Medical cannabis should not be prescribed for women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- The effects of cannabis on maternal and fetal outcomes remain generally unknown, however animal testing has shown that cannabis can harm the developing baby.
- When nursing, it is important to note that cannabinoids are excreted in human milk at high concentrations, and may be absorbed by a nursing baby.
Pediatric & Adolescent Patients
- Cannabinoids, particularly THC, should be used with caution in patients under 25 years of age as the potential adverse effects of cannabis use on mental health are greater during development.
- A risk versus benefit analysis of medical cannabis treatment must be carefully considered in pediatric and adolescent patients. The safety and effectiveness of cannabis in children has not yet been thoroughly established.
Hypersensitivity
- A small percentage of the population is hypersensitive to cannabis and should avoid using medical cannabis as it can cause adverse reactions.
Potential For Tolerance / Dependence / Abuse
- Tolerance and psychological/physical dependence can occur with the frequent and prolonged use of recreational cannabis.
- Cannabinoid tolerance can be minimized by combining lower doses of medical cannabis products with one or more traditional therapeutic drugs.
- Patients with a history of substance abuse may be more prone to abuse cannabis.
- Cannabis Use Disorder should be considered in patients seeking medical cannabis treatment.
Driving & Operating Machinery
- Patients who use medical cannabis containing THC may experience dizziness, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. This can result in impaired judgement as well as difficulty in performing skilled tasks.
- Until a patient is aware of how they will be affected by medical cannabis products, they should avoid activities that depend on coordination, quick decision-making and remaining alert.
- There is currently no scientific guidance on the amount of cannabis consumption that will result in impairment, or how long after consuming cannabis a patient should wait to drive or operate heavy machinery.
- Recommendations suggest that the effects of cannabis may persist for:
- 4-6 hours when inhaled.
- 8-10 hours when ingested.
- 8 hours following use if euphoria is experienced.
- People who frequently/routinely need to drive or operate heavy machinery should not use medical cannabis as they are at higher risk of having an accident.
Cannabis And Other Medications
Cannabis can interact with a number of other drugs and herbal wellness products. Patients should be particularly cautious when also taking any medications that cause drowsiness, or medications that inhibit CYP isoenzymes (potentially increasing the bioavailability of THC).
Patients should be cautious when using cannabis along with other medications such as:
- Allergy Medications
- Amiodarone
- Antibiotics
- Antidepressants
- Antifungals
- Antimycotics
- Antiretroviral Drugs
- Calcium Antagonists
- Cimetidine
- Cold Medications
- Heart Medication
- HIV Protease Inhibitors
- Isoniazid
- Macrolides
- Narcotic Pain Medications
- Proton pump Inhibitors
- Sedative-Hypnotics
- Seizure Medications
- Sleeping Aids
- Stomach Acid Inhibitors
Possible Side Effects / Adverse Events
While there are no known instances of overconsumption being fatal, an excessive dosage of THC can potentially result in mild to moderate side effects including:
- Anxiety
- Chest Pain
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Impaired Short-Term Memory
- Nausea / Vomiting
- Overwhelming Euphoria
- Paranoia
- Psychotic Episode (in individuals with a predisposition).
- Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia)
- Shallow Breathing
- Time-Distortion
Research indicates that adverse events associated with medical cannabis are also mild to moderate, and include:
- Somnolence
- Amnesia
- Cough
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Euphoric Mood
- Hyperhidrosis
- Paranoia
If side effects are experienced, patients can often manage this by adjusting dosage, and if needed, altering method(s) of consumption and/or the type of cannabis products being used. In order to maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize potential side effects, patients should gradually adjust their dosage beginning with a very low dose until optimal effects are achieved.
Recommendations For Patients Experiencing Side Effects / Adverse Events
Cognitive Impairment:
- Psychoactive side effects need to be balanced with symptom management.
- Patients should be advised to reduce overall dosage and/or slow titration if experiencing cognitive impairment.
- Patients should also consider using a product containing and lower concentration of THC and/or a higher concentration of CBD.
Anxiety:
- If the patient is using a full-spectrum product, the terpene profile should be considered as it could potentially be contributing to overly stimulating effects.
- Patients should consider switching to a product containing CBD only, or one with a lower concentration of THC and higher concentration of CBD.
- It is important to note that THC can cause tachycardia, which may be misinterpreted as anxiety in some patients.
Daytime Euphoria:
- If the patient has achieved symptom control with a product containing THC, they should consider switching to a product with a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD or higher to mitigate side effects.
- Alternatively, if feelings of euphoria persist, patients should consider using a CBD only product during the day.
Residual ‘Hangover’ Effects:
- If the patient is awakening with a feeling of impairment following the administration of a bedtime dosage. The patient should consider taking their dosage earlier before bedtime.
- If ‘hangover’ feelings persist, recommend lowering dosage.
Change In Symptom And/Or Response:
- If available consider the use of capsules as opposed to oils administered by dropper/syringe as this may improve the consistency of dosage.
- If reduction in symptom management persists, the patient should consider titrating up until desired effects are once again achieved.
In jurisdictions where access to medical cannabis is permitted, anxiety is among the most common conditions for which patients seek cannabinoid treatment.
Anxiety is part of the human body’s natural ‘fight or flight’ response to a perceived threat. While this response can be beneficial in moments of genuine danger, data suggests that a significant portion of the population experience excessive fear/worry disproportionate to the realities of a given situation, such as public speaking. Patients who experience this heightened fear/worry that persists after the perceived threat has passed, may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. These feelings of anxiousness can impact a patient’s ability to cope with daily life. When left untreated, anxiety can negatively impact work and/or social activities, significantly reducing one’s quality of life.
Cachexia is a condition that causes loss of appetite resulting in significant weight/muscle loss in patients suffering from cancer, undergoing chemotherapy, and patients with HIV/AIDS.
Cannabinoids have the potential to act as an appetite stimulant by activating the CB1 receptor, resulting in the release of hunger causing hormones. In jurisdictions where cannabis medicine is regulated, THC-heavy products are commonly used in the treatment of anorexia and wasting syndrome.
Cannabinoid treatment has been shown to assist with the anxiety and/or behavioural symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
ASD patients suffer from varying levels of symptom severity. While no two ASD patients are exactly alike, they typically lack the ability to fully interact with their environment and those around them. As debilitating as this can be, there are no specific medical disease complications linked to ASD, and patients suffering from ASD have a normal life expectancy. However, these patients do have an elevated risk of suffering injury resulting from associated behaviours/outbursts.
Research suggests that cannabinoids can suppress pain by activating the CB1 receptor in the body’s endocannabinoid system. In global markets where cannabis is regulated, pain resulting from cancer is among the first symptoms prioritized by health care providers specializing in cannabinoid medicine.
Research indicates that cannabis therapy can alleviate nausea and vomiting by suppressing nervous system signals through activating the CB1 and HT1A receptors. In jurisdictions where patients have access to medical cannabis, health care providers frequently prescribe cannabis medicine as an alternative treatment option for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).
CINV is among the most common and severe side effects experienced by patients undergoing treatment for cancer. Not all patients receiving chemotherapy will experience nausea and vomiting. For those who do, the severity will be impacted by a patient’s condition, dosage, and medication type. Persistent nausea and vomiting can lead to dehydration and make it difficult to eat, resulting in unintentional weight loss and nutrient deficiencies. When left untreated, CINV can also result in tearing of the esophagus.
In countries where medical cannabis is regulated, chronic pain is among the top conditions prioritized by health care providers specializing in cannabinoid medicine. Studies have shown that cannabis has the potential to suppress pain signaling by activating the CB1 receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Pain is considered chronic if it persists for a period longer than 3 months. Left unmanaged, chronic pain can severely impact a patient’s:
- Mental Health
- Sleep Quality
- Ability to Perform Activities of Daily Life
- Employment
- Family/Social Relationships
Epilepsy is a neurological condition in which seizures are triggered by abnormal brain activity. During a seizure episode, signals from the brain get disrupted by bursts of electrical activity, resulting:
- Uncontrolled Movement
- Loss of/Changes in Awareness.
- Unusual Sensations
Much of the current body of research regarding medical cannabis therapy for epilepsy is centered around the use of CBD in treating severe forms of childhood epilepsies such as Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes.
Research has shown that medicinal cannabis can be useful in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) symptoms such as loss of appetite, bloating and poor sleep quality.
IBD refers to medical conditions that result in intestinal inflammation, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Untreated, IBD can lead to bowel cancer, intestinal abscesses, fistulas and/or vitamin/mineral deficiencies.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a group of gastrointestinal disorders associated with abdominal discomfort/pain and irregular bowel habits.
Research shows that the endocannabinoid system is involved in the regulation of certain gastrointestinal functions such as motility, sensation and secretion. Medical cannabis can also manage inflammation and symptoms of cramping and/or abdominal pain.
In countries where medical cannabis is regulated, sleep disturbance is among the top concerns prioritized by health care providers specializing in cannabinoid medicine. Research has shown that use of cannabis medicine is associated with significant improvements in perceived insomnia.
Insomnia is a common form of sleep disturbance often aggravated by stress/trauma or pain. Many adults experience some symptoms of insomnia that can persist for days, weeks, or years.
Medicinal cannabis has been shown to be useful in treating patients suffering from recurrent migraines.
Migraines are a neurological disorder resulting in pulsing/throbbing headaches of moderate to severe intensity. Episodes can vary significantly in frequency and intensity.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the body’s central nervous system. The immune system causes damage to nerve fibres and their myelin coating.
Research indicated that cannabinoid medicine may be useful in relieving symptoms of MS such as:
- Muscle Spasticity
- Chronic Pain
- Neuropathic Pain
- Bladder Control Issues
- Poor Sleep Quality
- Limited Mobility
- Reduced Quality of Life
Neuropathic pain is the result of damaged nerves and/or nervous system problems. When a patient suffers nerve damage from an injury, pain signaling can persist well beyond the healing time of the initial injury.
Studies involving patients suffering from neuropathic pain have found that using a combination of THC and CBD can cause a significant reduction of pain symptoms as well as improved sleep quality.
Palliative care is a form of multidisciplinary medical care with the aim of maximizing quality of life by managing symptoms such as pain and emotional distress in patients who have terminal illnesses or are otherwise receiving end of life care.
Research indicates that cannabis medicine may be an effective treatment option for a variety of symptoms related to palliative care, such as:
- Chronic Pain
- Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting
- Loss of Appetite/Wasting
- Sleep Disturbance
- Depression
- Anxiety
Parkinson’s disease is a condition of the nervous system affecting movement that is linked to damaged tissue in areas of the brain responsible for dopamine production. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease worsens over time, impacting additional brain functions such as memory/learning.
Research suggests that medical cannabis can potentially relieve motor symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease by altering dopamine signalling through activating CB1 receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid systems.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) refers to a mental health condition typically resulting from an individual having experienced/witnessed a severe traumatic event such as dramatic injury, perceived threats and/or loss of life. Temporary feelings of emotional distress are common following traumatic events, however patients suffering from PTSD experienced persistent/prolonged distress.
Research suggests that endocannabinoids are involved in regulation of the body’s fight-or-flight response and fear related memory. Studies have also shown that THC can cause a significant reduction in nightmares experienced by PTSD patients.
Cannabis medicine, as any other medication, is not appropriate for all patients, as for some the potential risks can outweigh the overall benefits. Research has identified the following as specific conditions/patient groups where medical cannabis treatment should be approached with caution or avoided entirely:
ANXIETY & THC:
- THC has been shown to cause brief yet acute episodes of anxiety, particularly when used in high doses and when CBD is not used in conjunction. Patients with pre-existing symptoms of anxiety should avoid products containing moderate to high concentrations of THC.
HISTORY OF MENTAL ILLNESS:
- Medical cannabis use can be unsafe for patients with a personal/family history of certain mental health conditions. Cannabis has the potential to lead to the onset or worsening of conditions such as:
- Mood Disorders
- Personality Disorders
- Psychotic illnesses
PSYCHOSIS/SCHIZOPHRENIA:
- Patients suffering from or with a family history of schizophrenia may be at greater risk of suffering adverse psychiatric effects as a result of using psychoactive cannabinoids such as THC.
- If suffering from schizophrenia, mania or severe depression, patients should only use medical cannabis under the careful psychiatric monitoring of a qualified health care professional.
- CBD has the potential to be utilized as an antipsychotic, however further research is needed to qualify this conclusion.
CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONS:
- Use of medical cannabis should be approached with caution in patients with unstable cardiac conditions such as angina, arrhythmias, and ischemic heart disease.
- Patients with severe cardiopulmonary disease may experience hypotension, hypertension, syncope or tachycardia.
- When cannabis products are smoked, THC may cause peripheral vasodilatation, postural hypotension, and characteristic conjunctival reddening.
- Currently the potential cardiovascular risks of using products containing only CBD are unknown.
RESPIRATORY DISEASE:
- Patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should avoid smoking cannabis, and consider safer alternatives such as vaporization or ingestion.
CONCOMITANT THERAPY:
- Medical cannabis use has a potential for additive/synergistic CNS depressant or psychoactive effects in patients receiving concomitant therapy with psychoactive medications.
PREGNANT & BREASTFEEDING:
- Medical cannabis should not be prescribed for women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- The effects of cannabis on maternal and fetal outcomes remain generally unknown, however animal testing has shown that cannabis can harm the developing baby.
- When nursing, it is important to note that cannabinoids are excreted in human milk at high concentrations, and may be absorbed by a nursing baby.
PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT PATIENTS:
- Cannabinoids, particularly THC, should be used with caution in patients under 25 years of age as the potential adverse effects of cannabis use on mental health are greater during development.
- A risk versus benefit analysis of medical cannabis treatment must be carefully considered in pediatric and adolescent patients. The safety and effectiveness of cannabis in children has not yet been thoroughly established.
HYPERSENSITIVITY:
- A small percentage of the population is hypersensitive to cannabis and should avoid using medical cannabis as it can cause adverse reactions.
POTENTIAL FOR TOLERANCE / DEPENDENCE / ABUSE:
- Tolerance and psychological/physical dependence can occur with the frequent and prolonged use of recreational cannabis.
- Cannabinoid tolerance can be minimized by combining lower doses of medical cannabis products with one or more traditional therapeutic drugs.
- Patients with a history of substance abuse may be more prone to abuse cannabis.
- Cannabis Use Disorder should be considered in patients seeking medical cannabis treatment.
DRIVING & OPERATING MACHINERY:
- Patients who use medical cannabis containing THC may experience dizziness, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. This can result in impaired judgement as well as difficulty in performing skilled tasks.
- Until a patient is aware of how they will be affected by medical cannabis products, they should avoid activities that depend on coordination, quick decision-making and remaining alert.
- There is currently no scientific guidance on the amount of cannabis consumption that will result in impairment, or how long after consuming cannabis a patient should wait to drive or operate heavy machinery.
- Recommendations suggest that the effects of cannabis may persist for:
- 4-6 hours when inhaled.
- 8-10 hours when ingested.
- 8 hours following use if euphoria is experienced.
- People who frequently/routinely need to drive or operate heavy machinery should not use medical cannabis as they are at higher risk of having an accident.
Cannabis can interact with a number of other drugs and herbal wellness products. Patients should be particularly cautious when also taking any medications that cause drowsiness, or medications that inhibit CYP isoenzymes (potentially increasing the bioavailability of THC).
Patients should be cautious when using cannabis along with other medications such as:
- Allergy Medications
- Amiodarone
- Antibiotics
- Antidepressants
- Antifungals
- Antimycotics
- Antiretroviral Drugs
- Calcium Antagonists
- Cimetidine
- Cold Medications
- Heart Medication
- HIV Protease Inhibitors
- Isoniazid
- Macrolides
- Narcotic Pain Medications
- Proton pump Inhibitors
- Sedative-Hypnotics
- Seizure Medications
- Sleeping Aids
- Stomach Acid Inhibitors
While there are no known instances of overconsumption being fatal, an excessive dosage of THC can potentially result in mild to moderate side effects including:
- Anxiety
- Chest Pain
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Impaired Short-Term Memory
- Nausea / Vomiting
- Overwhelming Euphoria
- Paranoia
- Psychotic Episode (in individuals with a predisposition).
- Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia)
- Shallow Breathing
- Time-Distortion
Research indicates that adverse events associated with medical cannabis are also mild to moderate, and include:
- Somnolence
- Amnesia
- Cough
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Euphoric Mood
- Hyperhidrosis
- Paranoia
If side effects are experienced, patients can often manage this by adjusting dosage, and if needed, altering method(s) of consumption and/or the type of cannabis products being used. In order to maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize potential side effects, patients should gradually adjust their dosage beginning with a very low dose until optimal effects are achieved.
COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT:
- Psychoactive side effects need to be balanced with symptom management.
- Patients should be advised to reduce overall dosage and/or slow titration if experiencing cognitive impairment.
- Patients should also consider using a product containing and lower concentration of THC and/or a higher concentration of CBD.
ANXIETY:
- If the patient is using a full-spectrum product, the terpene profile should be considered as it could potentially be contributing to overly stimulating effects.
- Patients should consider switching to a product containing CBD only, or one with a lower concentration of THC and higher concentration of CBD.
- It is important to note that THC can cause tachycardia, which may be misinterpreted as anxiety in some patients.
DAYTIME EUPHORIA:
- If the patient has achieved symptom control with a product containing THC, they should consider switching to a product with a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD or higher to mitigate side effects.
- Alternatively, if feelings of euphoria persist, patients should consider using a CBD only product during the day.
RESIDUAL ‘HANGOVER’ EFFECTS:
- If the patient is awakening with a feeling of impairment following the administration of a bedtime dosage. The patient should consider taking their dosage earlier before bedtime.
- If ‘hangover’ feelings persist, recommend lowering dosage.
CHANGE IN SYMPTOM AND/OR RESPONSE:
- If available consider the use of capsules as opposed to oils administered by dropper/syringe as this may improve the consistency of dosage.
- If reduction in symptom management persists, the patient should consider titrating up until desired effects are once again achieved.
