A Review of Cardiovascular Effects of Marijuana Use

Cannabinoids exert their effects on body tissues via cannabinoid 1 (CB 1 ) and cannabinoid 2 (CB 2 ) receptors. Receptors are present in brain, myocardium, vascular endothelium, platelets, and adipose tissues. Under normal physiologic conditions, endocannabinoid effects are minimal. The use of exogenous cannabis leads to endothelial dysfunction and increases vascular thrombosis via CB 1 receptor stimulation. On the other hand, CB 2 receptors may have a beneficial anti-inflammatory response.

We reviewed reports of the effects of cannabis on the cardiovascular system utilizing PUBMED from the last 20 years with emphasis on the most recent reports.

Despite a plethora of reviews and some retrospective studies, there is a need for more definitive data regarding the effect of cannabis use on cardiovascular events (CVE). Marijuana does not appear to accelerate atherosclerosis. There is a suggestion that it may induce myocardial infarction in a small percentage of users, especially in male users, particularly during recent use. It has a possibility of increasing cerebrovascular events when combined with other risk factors such as tobacco use. There is an association between cannabis use and increased evidence of peripheral vascular disease. To have a definitive answer to the question of whether cannabis contributes to CVE, there is an urgent need for prospective controlled studies with patients presenting to academically oriented medical facilities with CVE following cannabis use for either medicinal or recreational use.