Cerebrovascular Complications Associated with Marijuana Use

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Global attitudes toward marijuana have shifted, leading to increased use, particularly among young populations.
• Marijuana is often perceived as harmless, but evidence links cannabis use to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.
• Recent studies suggest a growing association between marijuana use and stroke complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the literature on the association between cannabinoids and stroke.
• To explore the potential pathogenic mechanisms linking marijuana use to stroke.
• To inform healthcare providers about the cerebrovascular risks of cannabis consumption.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on observational studies and preclinical models.
• Analysis of reported cases of stroke in association with cannabis use.
• Examination of proposed pathogenic mechanisms for cannabis-induced stroke.

Main Results:

• Stroke, including ischemic and hemorrhagic types, has been reported in cannabis users, predominantly young individuals.
• Cerebral infarction is the most common stroke subtype associated with marijuana use.
• Proposed mechanisms include multifocal intracranial stenosis, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, and underlying vascular risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Cannabis use is increasingly recognized as a factor in acute stroke, particularly in younger populations.
• The understanding of cannabis-related stroke mechanisms is evolving.
• Healthcare providers must educate patients on the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risks of marijuana and cannabinoid use.