- A study suggests that cannabis use could reduce the severity and mortality of COVID-19.
- Marijuana users had shorter hospital stays and lower rates of complications.
- Experts warn of limitations in the research and the need for further studies.
A recent investigation by Northwell Healthpublished at the end of August in the magazine Cannabis and Cannabinoid Researchindicates that Marijuana users may see better results in the fight against COVID-19such as a lower rate of severe infections and a lower likelihood of intubation or death. This promising development points to the potential immunomodulatory effects of cannabis, which could reduce dangerous inflammation during infection.
Cannabis users have lower mortality from COVID-19
He study analyzed data from the National Inpatient Sample Database on cannabis against coronavirus, comparing hospital admissions for COVID-19 between marijuana users and non-users. The results, published by Forbesrevealed a significant reduction in mortality and serious complications, such as lung failure, among those who regularly use cannabis.
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Specifically, the mortality rate among non-users was 5.1% – almost double the 2.8% observed among users. In addition, people who use marijuana tended to have shorter hospital stays, with an average of 6.4 days compared to 7 days for non-users.
Precautions despite positive results
Despite these encouraging results, experts are urging caution. Dr. Benjamin Caplan, expert in cannabis and author consulted by Forbeshighlighted the possible Limitations of the study, such as difficulties in appropriately matching study subjects and the absence of crucial data, such as patients’ inflammation levels and the specific marijuana products used.
Conflicting results from research on cannabis and COVID-19
Los preliminary results from the study, as well as previous research, also support the possible association between cannabis and reduced severity of COVID-19.
For example, a study conducted in 2022 by researchers at Oregon State University showed that certain cannabinoid acids in cannabis could prevent the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into human cells in vitro by binding to its protein spikesuggesting a possible preventive role against the virus.
Related Content: Does Cannabis Use Increase Covid Severity? New Study Challenges Previous Findings
Previous research cited in the article Forbes They present a mixed view: Canadian Studies warn that cannabinoids could reduce the severity of COVID-19 by making it harder for the virus to enter the body and alleviating oxidative stress. In contrast, a study from the University of Washington linked marijuana use to an increased risk of severe COVID-19, underscoring that there is no evidence to support that smoking cannabis is a preventive or curative measure for the virus.
As cannabis research progresses, further studies are vital to fully understand its potential health benefits and risks, especially given the long history of prohibition that has stifled scientific exploration in this emerging field.
Via To gasolinetranslated by El Planteo
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