Study finds cannabis effects differed by use frequency and sex

Health · First reported 9 Nov, 16:55 · Updated 17:40

Image: Wikimedia Commons · Fikkar Bonggi · CC BY-SA 4.0

A UCLA Health study of 44 adults found that occasional-use men reported stronger effects from cannabis than occasional-use women, while frequent users of both sexes generally responded similarly. The researchers said the results need confirmation in larger studies and noted that the cannabis tested was weaker than many products sold today.

The study included 44 healthy adults aged 21 to 55, evenly split between men and women; participants smoked cannabis containing no THC, a lower amount or a higher amount across three sessions.
Among occasional users, men reported greater intoxication, sedation and impairment, as well as more anxiety; their heart rates rose significantly after active cannabis use.
Frequent users of both sexes generally responded similarly. The researchers said the small study and exploratory findings require confirmation in larger studies.

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Key facts

Study participants: 44 healthy adults aged 21–55, evenly split between men and women.
Occasional users: Men reported stronger effects, more anxiety and a significant heart-rate rise after active cannabis use.
Frequent users: Men and women generally responded similarly; frequent users were more likely to like the effects, want to use again and choose more during the study.
Cannabis strength: The tested cannabis contained 4% or 10% THC; the reports say many products sold today commonly contain 20% or more.
Next research step: Researchers said larger studies are needed to confirm findings and examine differences in tolerance and cannabis use disorder risk.