Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure and heart rate shortly after consumption.
These effects may be more common in people with limited experience with cannabis use or in those who consume large amounts.
More research is necessary to better understand the potential effects of long-term or chronic cannabis use on blood pressure and heart health.
In a 2023 study, researchers analyzed cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). They looked at five 2-year cycles between 2009 and 2018, representing 9,783 adults ages 35 to 59 years.
They didn’t find a significant link between cannabis use and increased blood pressure in middle-aged adults. However, results could differ across age groups and other factors.
While direct evidence linking cannabis to elevated blood pressure is limited, studies have highlighted increased risks of certain heart conditions.
A 2024 study of 2016 to 2020 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey found cannabis use linked with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke in adults ages 18 to 74 years.
Daily users had a 25% higher risk of heart attack and a 42% higher risk of stroke than nonusers.
According to more recent research shared in a March 2025 press release, adults under 50 years old are more than 6 times more likely to experience a heart attack than nonusers. The research also noted increased risks of heart failure and stroke among cannabis users.
Cannabidiol (CBD), a nonpsychoactive component of cannabis, may have potential cardiovascular benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, but more research is necessary to confirm these effects.
It’s also important to consider the method of consumption. Smoking and vaping cannabis can introduce harmful substances that negatively affect blood pressure and heart health.
Overall, cannabis’s effects on blood pressure can vary, and while CBD might help lower blood pressure in some cases, THC may increase it, especially in the short term.
Overall, cannabis’s effects on blood pressure vary. CBD might help lower blood pressure in some cases, but THC may increase it, especially in the short term. Read More
