The American Heart Association is calling for the removal of cannabis from "Schedule 1 of the U.S. Controlled Substances Act" so it can be researched more fully this according to MedPage Today.
In an American Heart Association group document, headed by Robert Page II of the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, MedPage Today reported pros recommended standardization of THC and CBD concentrations in cannabis sold on the legal market.
According to MedPage Today, Page’s group said:
"A key concern is whether cannabis triggers or potentiates major adverse cardiovascular events such as acute MI and arrhythmias, as well as its impact on cardiovascular risk factors."
Other researchers recently have expressed concerns over potential effects of cannabis on the heart.
"The American Heart Association recommends that people not smoke or vape any substance, including cannabis products, because of the potential harm to the heart, lungs and blood vessels," Dr. Rose Marie Robertson an American Heart Association rep told CNN in a statement.
Particular heart issues of concerns to health professionals include “heart rhythm abnormalities, such as tachycardia and atrial fibrillation,” according to CNN.
Page also told CNN:
"Research funding at federal and state levels must be increased to match the expansion of cannabis use -- to clarify the potential therapeutic properties and to help us better understand the cardiovascular and public health implications of frequent cannabis use."
Read the full story on MedPage here.
Read the full story on CNN here.
