The influence of marijuana on physiologic processes and exercise
Cannabis use is widespread, totaling more than 400 possible compounds with the most prevalent compound being THC . THC has a psychotropic effect on the central nervous system by acting on CB1 and an analgesic by working on CB2 receptors. CB1/CB2 receptors are activated by the attachment of the ligand, Anandamide [1] . Marijuana has been shown to elevate resting heart rate and systolic/diastolic pressure after consumption [2] . Marijuana has also been seen to produce bronchodilation in patients with bronchoconstriction secondary to asthma [3] . Many athletes consume marijuana for their euphoric effects by reducing stress and anxiety. By reducing stress before competition allows for adequate sleep, which allows for optimal performance [1] .
Tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary constituent of marijuana that binds to G-Protein-Coupled CB1 receptors which are found throughout the brain in the frontal and medial temporal lobe. [4] Marijuana is one of the most frequently used drugs among young adults. Marijuana induces tachycardia which can decrease the maximal work capacity after smoking this drug. [5] Marijuana creates an increase in carboxyhemoglobin concentration of blood due to large amount of carbon monoxide created from the smoking of this drug. [5] Some other factors that could affect the maximal work capacity after smoking marijuana are bronchodilation, decrease in perception of dyspnea, and increase blood flow to exercising muscles. [5] The utilization of marijuana with exercise has a negative correlation that affects their overall health greatly.
Marijuana use has both acute and prolonged effects on the cardiovascular system, drastically altering the normal functioning of the entire system. The initial intake of THC increases heart rate, causes hypertension during sitting, and hypotention whilst standing[6]. In addition, there are potential risks of orthostatic hypotention and dizziness that can come with frequent marijuana use[6]. A person's blood volume goes up and their circulatory system response decreases. Concerns over the decrease in blood pressure and quick loss of mental orientation should be brought to the attention of the physical therapists during evaluation and treatment of patients using recreational marijuana. The influence of marijuana would affect how a patient responds to standard examinations and exercise during treatment. Patients who have cardiovascular disease are much more likely to have health problems because their heart has to work harder, their catecholamine levels go up, and postural hypotension happens.[7] Prolongued effects of frequent marijuana use could have more adverse effects as tolerance level is increased including alterations to the plasma volume[6].
Marijuana also has its effects on the pulmonary system. Specifically, research has shown there to be a high association between marijuana use and certain respiratory issues, such as coughing and wheezing[8]. In addition, the drug causes inflammation, bronchodilation, and diffusion impairment[8]. These conditions would have a negative impact on a person's ability to adhere to a rigorous exercise routine. Diffusion impairment would especially affect the amount of oxygen successfully entering the alveoli of the lungs, decreasing the amount of oxygen available for use during strenuous activity. Therefore, physical therapists would take extra precautions and plan exercise treatment accordingly as to prevent overexertion and fatigue.
Marijuana could positively affect the ability of people with underlying neurological conditions to exercise. Reduction of symptoms could allow these people to exercise more effectively and frequently. A systematic review of patients with neurological disorders including multiple sclerosis, movement disorders, and epilepsy showed that some of the debilitating effects of these diseases were reduced after the intake of cannabis extracts[9]. Most notably, it was found that oral cannabis extract was effective in reducing patient-reported scores of spasticity, allowing them to move freely and have better control of movements. It was also found to be effective in reduction of central pain in patients with multiple sclerosis[9].
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Pesta, H. D., Angadi, S. S., Burtscher, M., & Roberts, K. C. (2013). The effects of caffeine, nicotine, ethanol, and tetrahydrocannabinol on exercise performance. Nutrition & Metabolism. 10(71). doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-10-71
- ↑ Steadward, R. D., & Singh, M. (1975). The effects of smoking marihuana on physical performance. Med Sci Sports. 7(4)
- ↑ Vachon L., FitzGerald, M. X., Soliday, N.H., Gould, I. A. & Gaensler E. A. (1973) Single-dose effects of marihuana smoke. Bronchial dynamics and respiratory-center sensitivity in normal subjects.N Engl J Med. 10; 288(19):985-9.
- ↑ Gevins A, Ilan A, Smith M. Effects of marijuana on neurophysiological signals of working and episodic memory. Psychopharmacology 2004;176:214-22
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 Cormier Y, Renaud A. Acute effects of marijuana smoking on maximal exercise performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 1986;18:685-689
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 Jones RT. Cardiovascular system effects of marijuana. The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 2002;42:58S-63S
- ↑ Jones, R.T. (2002). Cardiovascular system effects of marijuana. J CLin. Pharmacol. 42(11), 58-63
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 Tetrault JM, Crothers K, Moore BA, Mehra R, Concato J, Fiellin DA. Effects of marijuana smoking on pulmonary function and respiratory complications: A systematic review. Archives of Internal Medicine 2007;167:221-8
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 Koppel, B. S., Brust, J. C. M., Fife, T., Bronstein, J., Youssof, S., Gronseth, G., & Gloss, D. Systematic review: Efficacy and safety of medical marijuana in selected neurologic disorders: Report of the Guideline Development Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology (2014)..82 (17), 1556–1563.
