#48 Clinical Context
Background information relevant to the evolving cannabis medicine landscape.
Seniors using CBD products need to know that without third-party lab verification and a conversation with a knowledgeable clinician, they may be exposing themselves to inconsistent doses, contaminants, or unrecognized interactions with their existing medications.
CBD use among older adults is growing rapidly, driven by interest in managing chronic pain, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and inflammation without the intoxicating effects associated with THC. The endocannabinoid system, which modulates these physiological processes, undergoes changes with aging, and there is emerging evidence that cannabinoid-based interventions may help restore some of that regulatory balance. For seniors specifically, product selection matters enormously, as third-party lab testing, consistent dosing formats, and low-THC formulations reduce the risks of adverse effects including dizziness, sedation, and drug interactions with common medications like blood thinners and cardiac drugs.
“The endocannabinoid system does not stop being relevant at age 65, and dismissing CBD for seniors without engaging the pharmacology is a disservice to the fastest-growing population of cannabinoid users.”
🦴 The endocannabinoid system’s role in regulating inflammation, pain, and sleep is well-established in the literature, making CBD a reasonable consideration for older adults managing chronic conditions. Seniors often benefit from lower-dose, slower-titration approaches due to polypharmacy concerns and age-related changes in drug metabolism. Third-party lab testing remains essential for verifying cannabinoid content and screening for contaminants, particularly given the largely unregulated CBD market. Product selection should prioritize bioavailability and ease of administration, as swallowing difficulties and dexterity limitations are common in this population. ️ Clinicians should screen for potential interactions with medications like warfarin or CYP3A4 substrates before recommending CBD to older patients.
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