What we’ve learned about aging and cannabis use.

What we’ve learned about aging and cannabis use.

As we age, the body works differently. Sleep patterns shift. We carry less water. Metabolism slows. The liver and kidneys work more slowly.

This changes how your body processes cannabis, affecting you in ways that are important to understand.

• Effects may feel stronger or less predictable than in the past
• The experience may last longer
• Balance and reaction time may be impaired
• Medications can interact more easily
• Cannabis use (smoking and edibles) has been linked to cardiovascular disease

Did you know?

Cannabis today isn’t what it was back in the day—it’s much stronger!

Concentrations of THC in dried cannabis have increased over the past few decades (from about 4% THC in the 1990s to about 15-20% today).

If you choose to use, try these tips: 

• “Start low and go slow.” Choose cannabis products with lower amounts of THC and equal or higher amounts of CBD.  Wait to feel the effects before taking more.
• Be careful with edibles. Edibles (gummies, baked goods) take longer to work, up to 2 hours.
• Do not mix. Avoid using cannabis with alcohol or other substances. Using them together can increase the risk of side effects. The combination of alcohol and cannabis can make you dizzy and confused.
• Do not drive if you have used cannabis. It is unsafe and illegal.

If you are considering using cannabis or cannabis products, make sure your doctor knows your current medications and supplements and ask them:

• Are there interactions with my medications?
• How does cannabis affect my lungs?
• Can using cannabis impact my heart health?

VT Helplink is here to connect you and your loved ones to substance use services.

Call 802-565-LINK or visit vthelplink.org.

This campaign is brought to you by Northeast Vermont Prevention Consortium - Prevention Lead Region 3 and is supported by a grant from the Vermont Department of Health Division of Substance Use Programs.