The Burning Question: Is Vaping Marijuana Really Safe?

Understanding Cannabis Vaping

Unraveling the topic of cannabis vaping involves acknowledging its increasing prevalence, particularly among youth, and the potential impacts associated with it. This section will delve into these aspects, shedding light on the question: "Is vaping marijuana safe?"

Rise of Cannabis Vaping Among Youth

Cannabis vaping shows a concerning rise among youth. Recent reports indicate that one-third of youth who vape are now vaping cannabis. This trend is not confined to one region. In Canada, the use of vape pens for cannabis consumption increased from 20% to 26% among adolescents and young adults between 2017 and 2018.

These figures highlight a growing inclination towards vaping as a mode of cannabis consumption among young people, a trend that carries several acute and long-term health risks.

The Process and Impact of Cannabis Vaping

The process of vaping involves heating cannabis to a temperature that turns its active compounds into vapor. This vapor is then inhaled, providing a rapid delivery of the psychoactive compound, THC, into the bloodstream.

Cannabis vaping is associated with an increase in the amount of cannabis consumed when compared with other modes of consumption [1]. The consumption of high-potency forms of cannabis through vaping has been linked to acute adverse effects such as paranoia, psychosis, and cannabis hyperemesis syndrome [1].

Beyond these acute effects, vaping cannabis has also been connected to severe lung injuries. Hundreds of cases of EVALI (vaping-associated lung injuries) have been reported in Canada and the USA. More than three-quarters of individuals diagnosed with EVALI reported vaping THC products, many of which were purchased from the black market.

The rise in cannabis vaping and its potential impacts underscore the importance of understanding the risks associated with this mode of cannabis consumption, particularly when asking, "Is vaping marijuana safe?" The subsequent sections will delve into this question further, exploring health risks, regulatory stances, and safer alternatives to cannabis vaping.

Health Risks of Vaping Marijuana

As the question "is vaping marijuana safe?" continues to linger, it's essential to consider the health risks associated with this practice. Various studies have pointed to the potential dangers, particularly concerning acute adverse effects, lung injuries, and its impact on the respiratory system.

Acute Adverse Effects

Cannabis vaping has been associated with an increased risk of developing acute adverse effects such as paranoia, psychosis, and cannabis hyperemesis syndrome when using high-potency concentrates. These effects can be distressing and potentially harmful, particularly for users who are not accustomed to the potent effects of concentrated cannabis.

Moreover, cannabis vaping has been associated with increased amounts of cannabis consumed when compared with other modes of consumption. This increased consumption can lead to a higher risk of experiencing these adverse effects.

Vaping and Lung Injuries

Vaping marijuana has also been linked to lung injuries. Specifically, several hundreds of cases of EVALI (vaping-associated lung injuries) have been reported in Canada and the USA [1].

More than three-quarters of individuals diagnosed with EVALI reported vaping THC products, many of which were purchased from the black market. This suggests that the safety and quality of the product can significantly influence the risk of lung injury.

Impact on Respiratory System

Even though vaporized cannabis may generate fewer chemicals than smoked cannabis, the use of high-potency concentrates, like those found in vape pens, correlates with a higher incidence of mental and physical health problems and acute adverse effects [1].

These respiratory issues can add to the cumulative damage caused by smoking, potentially leading to chronic respiratory conditions over time. Thus, while vaping marijuana may seem like a safer alternative to smoking, it's not without its own set of risks.

Understanding these health risks can help individuals make more informed decisions about their cannabis use. While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of vaping marijuana, the current evidence suggests caution and moderation when using these products.

Comparing Cannabis Vaping and Smoking

The debate on the safety of vaping marijuana is often compared to the known risks of smoking it. However, it's important to note that both methods have potential health risks, and the safety of one method over the other is not absolute.

Cannabis Consumption: Vaping vs. Smoking

When considering vaping versus smoking, it appears that vaping cannabis may generate fewer chemicals than smoked cannabis. However, the use of high-potency concentrates, typically found in vape pens, correlates with a higher incidence of mental and physical health problems and acute adverse effects [1].

On the other hand, smoking marijuana is known to damage the human lung, causing chronic bronchitis and injuring the cell linings of the large airways. This leads to symptoms such as chronic cough, phlegm production, wheeze, and acute bronchitis. Smoking marijuana has also been linked to cases of air pockets in between both lungs and between the lungs and the chest wall, as well as large air bubbles in the lungs among young to middle-aged adults, mostly heavy smokers of marijuana.

Furthermore, vaping marijuana has been found to be worse than using e-cigarettes and significantly more likely to cause symptoms of lung injury among adolescents [3].

The Additives and their Effects

In addition to the core substance of marijuana, the additives used in both vaping and smoking can have significant effects on health. Cannabis vaping has been associated with increased amounts of cannabis consumed compared to other modes of consumption. Flavored cannabis vaping products may contain harmful and carcinogenic aerosols.

Moreover, several hundreds of cases of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injuries) have been reported in Canada and the USA, with most patients reporting vaping THC products, many of which were purchased from the black market.

When assessing the question, "Is vaping marijuana safe?", it's crucial to consider the method of consumption, the additives used, and the individual's overall health condition. Both vaping and smoking marijuana pose considerable risks, and neither method can be considered entirely safe. The best way to reduce these risks is to use responsibly, in moderation, and to seek advice from healthcare professionals.

Regulatory Stance on Cannabis Vaping

As the use of cannabis vaping products continues to rise, so does the scrutiny from health organizations and regulatory bodies. The safety of vaping marijuana remains a contentious issue, with positions varying widely across different jurisdictions.

Health Canada's Position

Health Canada, the federal department responsible for public health, has yet to test the health effects of vaping cannabis. Despite the lack of in-depth analysis, the federal government has decided to permit the sale of cannabis vaping products in Canada. However, some Canadian provinces have taken a more cautious approach – Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec have banned the sale of cannabis vapes altogether, while Nova Scotia has prohibited flavoured versions.

The majority of vaping illness cases are associated with illicit cannabis vapes. Health Canada acknowledges that the diluting agents found in cannabis vaping products are deemed safe in many consumer products. However, the long-term safety of inhaling these substances remains unknown and under evaluation. Cannabis vaping products in Canada are not permitted to contain harmful substances and must be tested for contaminants. The regulatory body permits THC levels up to 1,000 mg per package and allows flavours, although the use of flavours in nicotine-based vaping products is discouraged due to concerns about attracting young users.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Report

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has reported a significant number of vaping-associated lung illnesses and deaths across the United States. In 2019 alone, there were 2,409 cases of vaping-associated lung illnesses, including 52 deaths. This alarming trend has raised concerns among health experts, particularly with the introduction of cannabis vaping products in Canada.

In response to the rise in vaping illnesses, the CDC has issued warnings about the potential health risks of vaping, particularly with THC-containing products. This stance aligns with the findings of numerous health studies, which suggest that vaping can have harmful effects on lung health.

The regulatory stances of Health Canada and the CDC highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the safety of vaping marijuana. While further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects, users are advised to proceed with caution and stay informed about the potential health risks.

Safer Alternatives to Vaping Cannabis

Despite the increasing popularity of vaping marijuana, there are significant health concerns associated with this method of consumption. As such, it is worth exploring safer alternatives to vaping cannabis that pose less risk to lung health and the respiratory system overall.

Edibles, Sublingual Products, and Suppositories

According to Verywell Health, safer ways to consume marijuana include edibles, sublingual products, and suppositories. These methods of consumption do not involve inhaling marijuana smoke or vapor, thus minimizing potential harm to the lungs and respiratory system.

Edibles, such as candies, cookies, and brownies, allow the marijuana to be metabolized in the digestive system, while sublingual products, like tinctures and lozenges, are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth. Suppositories are inserted rectally or vaginally and absorbed through the blood vessels in these areas.

While these methods are typically safer than vaping or smoking marijuana, it is important to note that they also come with their own set of risks and effects. For example, the effects of edibles can be more potent and longer-lasting than inhaled marijuana, which can lead to a greater risk of overconsumption.

Moderation and Responsible Use

Regardless of the method of consumption, the key to minimizing potential health risks is moderation and responsible use. Overuse of marijuana, whether vaped, smoked, or ingested, can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, weakened immune system, and the risk of addiction.

The American Lung Association states that smoking marijuana clearly damages the human lung, causing symptoms such as chronic cough, phlegm production, wheeze, and acute bronchitis. It has also been linked to cases of air pockets in between both lungs and between the lungs and the chest wall, as well as large air bubbles in the lungs among young to middle-aged adults, mostly heavy smokers of marijuana.

Moreover, smoking marijuana can harm the lungs' first line of defense against infection by killing cells that help remove dust and germs, causing more mucus to be formed, and suppressing the immune system. These effects could lead to an increased risk of lower respiratory tract infections among marijuana smokers.

In conclusion, while vaping marijuana is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, it may pose its own set of health risks. Therefore, it's crucial to consider other safer methods of consumption, such as edibles, sublingual products, and suppositories. Equally important is the need for moderation and responsible use to minimize potential health issues.

The Science Behind Cannabis Vaping

In the quest to answer the question, 'is vaping marijuana safe?', it is important to examine the scientific studies conducted on this topic. One of the key studies was conducted by Johns Hopkins Medicine, which offers valuable insights into the effects of vaping cannabis.

Johns Hopkins Study Results

In a notable study conducted by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers, it was found that vaping cannabis could potentially have stronger effects than smoking it for infrequent users. The study involved 17 participants who were infrequent cannabis users.

The researchers found that participants who vaped cannabis with 25 milligrams of THC reported higher levels of dry mouth and dry eyes compared to those who smoked it. Additionally, they rated higher levels of anxiety and paranoia when vaping compared to smoking the same amount of the compound.

Understanding THC Levels and Effects

In the same study, it was discovered that blood levels of THC were notably higher immediately after vaping cannabis compared to smoking it. For instance, at 25 milligrams of THC, blood levels reached an average of 14.4 nanograms per milliliter when vaped, compared to 10.2 nanograms per milliliter when smoked.

Participants who vaped any dose of THC also experienced slower reaction times on average by more than 120 milliseconds compared to reaction time after smoking or vaping cannabis without THC. This could potentially affect daily tasks and performance.

Furthermore, the study indicated that participants had substantially higher impairment when vaping cannabis compared to smoking the same dose, translating to more functional impairment for activities like driving. Participants' ability to accurately track a square on a computer screen was significantly reduced after vaping compared to smoking cannabis with THC doses.

These findings suggest that while vaping cannabis is often thought to be safer than smoking it, the dose needs to be carefully considered. For infrequent cannabis users, vaping may deliver too much THC too fast, leading to short-term anxiety, paranoia, memory loss, and distraction when doses are the same as smoking cannabis. This adds a layer of complexity to the issue, highlighting the need for more research and regulatory oversight.

References

[1]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7757764/

‍[2]: https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/smoking-facts/health-effects/marijuana-and-lung-health

‍[3]: https://thorax.bmj.com/content/early/2023/07/31/thoraxjnl-2022-218743

‍[4]: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/cannabis-vapes-safety-health-canada-1.5396525

‍[5]: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2018/12/vaping-cannabis-produces-stronger-effects-than-smoking-cannabis-for-infrequent-users