Chronic pain, sleep difficulties, and neurological symptoms are common among older adults. These conditions require medications with severe side effects. Medical cannabis is a promising alternative for pain relief and improving well-being in this population.
A new study explores the therapeutic benefits of cannabis-based products for adults aged 65 and over. This research aims to demonstrate how cannabis works in the older demographic. Researchers want to address the lack of research on this population because they are one of the fastest-growing groups who order weed online.
Key Takeaways:
- 76.3% of women aged over 64 used cannabis primarily to manage pain.
- 35.6% of older adults reported reducing their opioid doses, while 19.9% reported reducing their benzodiazepine medications.
- A small placebo-controlled study demonstrated that THC treatment increased body weight and triceps skinfold thickness in patients with Alzheimer’s.
What is Medical Cannabis?
Medical cannabis, or marijuana, comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. It contains 104 active cannabinoids and other compounds that interact with the body’s cannabinoid receptors. Researchers primarily focus on two components of cannabis in medical studies: THC and CBD.
- CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-euphoric compound. It can counteract the effects of THC. CBD can treat inflammation, chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
- THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the compound that leads to a “high” or intoxicated feeling at sufficient doses. In small doses, THC can help decrease pain, anxiety, tension, and nausea.
Medical cannabis is available through smoking, vaporization, or edible preparations. A few randomized controlled trials have evaluated smoked cannabis in patients with neuropathic pain. In these trials, subjects experienced a reduction in pain intensity with THC concentrations of 3.9 percent or higher. Adverse effects in these studies were mild to moderate only.
Study on Older Adults Using Medical Cannabis
Most studies on medical cannabis tend to focus on younger demographics or those aged 65 and under. This prompted researchers from the UK to investigate a demographic often overlooked. The paper emphasizes the need for real-world evidence since older users are among the fastest-growing groups using medical marijuana globally.
The UK-based organization Drug Science conducted the study in collaboration with Imperial College London’s Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology. From October 2014 to October 2020, they collected data on users aged 65 years and above who consume medical cannabis.
Methodology
Subjects consulted a physician for a prescription and received guidance from a trained medical cannabis educator on product options and intake methods. They also provided their demographic, social, and health information.
At follow-up visits, the subjects completed another questionnaire about cannabis products used, symptoms, adverse effects, and changes in concurrent medication use. They rated their symptoms of pain, mood, and sleep since starting cannabis use on a scale ranging from ‘>75% better’ to ‘none/worse.’ They also reported any adverse effects and changes in the dose of concomitant medications.
Results
Most participants reported improved symptoms such as pain, sleep, and mood, while some experienced no change or worsening.
Specifically, 76.3% of women over 64 primarily used cannabidiol oil for pain relief, while others relied on THC-dominant flowers to alleviate their conditions. Significant improvements in overall well-being were present across all measures.
Cannabis Beyond Pain Relief
Although pain relief is a significant advantage, pain reduction is not the only way that medicinal cannabis can help older folks. Research indicates that cannabis may provide several other benefits that enhance general well-being.
Reduce Medication Intake
In a 2022 study in Canada, researchers investigated the impact of cannabis on older adults. Researchers asked participants about changes in their concurrent medication after starting medical cannabis.
Data showed that there were four types of drug use: opioids, nerve modulators, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines. Among these, 35.6% and 19.9% of older adults reported reducing their opioid and benzodiazepine doses, respectively.
Improvement in Mood and Anxiety
A study from the University of California examined 568 geriatric patients. Most found it extremely helpful, while 15% reported minimal or no help, and 15% did not respond. Users treating anxiety with THC-containing products were more inclined to vape flowers or consume edibles.
Stimulation of Appetite
Poor appetite is widespread among the elderly in home settings, care homes, and hospitals. It may result in unsatisfactory healthcare outcomes, weight loss, and dietary inadequacies.
A small placebo-controlled study with 15 Alzheimer’s patients showed an increase in body weight and triceps skinfold thickness following THC treatment. Ghrelin, a hormone that signals hunger, plays a role in this process. Medical cannabis encourages the body to produce more ghrelin, thereby stimulating appetite.
Cannabis Strains for Managing Pain
Pain-relieving cannabis strains provide a safe, all-natural solution for treating persistent illnesses. By using cannabis, elders can reduce their reliance on medications while experiencing pain relief.
| Strain | THC | CBD | Terpene | Effects |
| Gorilla Glue #4 | 28% | 1% | Caryophyllene and Limonene | Heavy-handed euphoria and relaxation |
| Mochi (dep) | 23% | 0% | Limonene, Caryophyllene, and Myrcene | Mellow and relaxing |
| Apple Fritter | 27% | 0% | Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Humulene | Relaxing and calming |
| Oreoz | 27% | 1% | Caryophyllene, Humulene, Trans-nerolidol, Limonene, and Myrcene | Uplifting and boosting mental euphoria |
| Jealousy | 27% | 1% | Linalool, Limonene, and Caryophyllene | Increase energy, enhance creativity, and promote calmness |
How to Use Cannabis for Pain Relief
Cannabis use is a unique experience for everyone. What works for younger users may not be suitable for older adults. The older demographic must consider multiple factors, mainly because they often have more health issues and take various medications. They need to be cautious and deliberate in how they incorporate cannabis into their routine.
Choosing the Right Strain
Not all cannabis strains are alike. They vary in components like cannabinoids and terpenes, each offering specific benefits. For pain management, a strain rich in THC with Beta-Caryophyllene and Linalool could be ideal.
If you’re THC-sensitive, strains with lower to moderate THC and higher CBD levels might be more suitable.
There are strains for appetite loss, sleep disturbances, and other specific needs.
Method of Consumption
Seniors have various methods to consume medical cannabis, each suited to different preferences, health needs, and circumstances.
- Smoking and Vaping. While these methods offer rapid effects, they may not be ideal for seniors with respiratory issues or those seeking to avoid lung irritation. Using a vaporizer with cannabis can mitigate these concerns and provide a more comfortable experience.
- Edibles and Sublingual Tinctures. Cannabis-infused edibles offer a slower onset and longer-lasting effects. Sublingual tinctures, placed under the tongue, provide a quick and precise dosing method.
- Topicals. Seniors dealing with localized pain, arthritis, or skin conditions may benefit from cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions. These products allow for targeted application without causing the psychoactive effects linked to other consumption methods.
Microdose
Microdosing cannabis involves taking smaller, more frequent doses. It can help manage conditions and incorporate cannabis into daily routines without the overwhelming effects. Start with the lowest possible dose, between 1-2.5 mg of THC, and observe how the body reacts.
Consult a Healthcare Practitioner
Consulting with healthcare providers is essential for a successful medical marijuana journey. Continual communication, where you share your experiences and concerns, ensures your treatment is monitored and adjusted as necessary.
Do not replace any current pharmaceutical medications or be added to an existing medical regimen without consulting a licensed medical practitioner. Suddenly stopping any pharmaceutical medicines can lead to severe adverse side effects, regardless of whether you use cannabis or not.
Conclusion
Chronic pain is common among seniors, and it affects their well-being and quality of life. Medical cannabis is a promising option for pain management and can alleviate other symptoms as well. Despite limited research on seniors using cannabis, many are curious about its effects through smoking or consuming edibles and find relief from its use. GetLoud Cannabis offers multiple product selections with different dosages suitable for seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How frequently should I use cannabis to manage pain?
For older adults, medical cannabis can offer a safe and beneficial option, but it requires caution. Moderate your consumption and avoid daily high doses. Taking cannabis daily can lead to tolerance build-up.
If you are unable to consume high to moderate quantities of cannabis, you may want to microdose. This strategy is to prevent tolerance development and impairment in daily tasks.
Is it safe for an 80-year-old to smoke weed?
Seniors can safely use weed as long as their health conditions or medications are not adversely affected. Older adults with the following conditions must consider avoiding cannabis: heart conditions or unstable blood pressure, cognitive impairments or balance issues, and a history of substance use disorders.
Which strain of cannabis, Indica or Sativa, offers superior pain management?
Indica strains have relaxing properties and higher THC content, which can enhance pain relief. They also contain beta-caryophyllene and linalool terpenes, known for their sedative, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving effects.
