By Franklin Delgado
A growing number of older adults are turning to edible hashish as an alternative treatment, especially following the legalization of hashish in several US states. This group seeks relief from chronic pain, sleep disorders, anxiety and depression.
Participants in a study in this regard, published in JAMA Community Originateexpressed concern about the side effects of conventional medications, such as drowsiness and dependence, prompting them to explore hashish as a more natural and safer option.
Many older adults have tried other treatment modalities without satisfactory results, fueling their interest in hashish as a last resort to improve their quality of life.
Perceptions about hashish products
Study participants showed a clear preference for products that combine tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), considering them more effective for managing their symptoms, although they also expressed doubts about the dosage and psychoactive effects.
Despite growing interest, many older adults feel unsure about which products are safest and most effective, reflecting the need for better medical and educational guidance.
The findings suggest that it is essential to provide older adults with evidence-based information to help them make informed and safe decisions about using hashish to manage their health problems.
Interactions between hashish and other medications
Hashish may interact with several medications that are common in older adults, especially because it can increase drowsinessalter blood pressure and change how the liver processes certain drugs.
Most important interactions:
- Sedatives and central nervous system depressants: Benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol, antihistamines, and some muscle relaxants may cause increased drowsiness, dizziness, and risk of falls if combined with hashish.
- Anticoagulants: Increases in INR and increased risk of bleeding have been reported with warfarin.
- Antidepressants and antipsychotics: Some combinations may intensify side effects, such as sedation or changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
- Medications that affect the heart or blood pressure: sympathomimetics, anticholinergics, beta-blockers and diuretics can interact and promote tachycardia or pressure changes.
- Other drugs metabolized by the liver: CBD and THC can modify liver enzymes, changing the concentration of medications such as clobazam, theophylline, clozapine or olanzapine.
Why it matters more in older people. In older adults, these interactions may be more noticeable because there is usually polypharmacygreater sensitivity to sedation and greater risk of falls, confusion and cardiovascular decompensations.
Practical recommendation. If an older person uses hashish, it is a good idea to review their entire medication list with a healthcare professional, especially if they take blood thinners, sedatives, antidepressants, heart medications, or chronic medications.
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