Research Shows Weed Vaping Possibly More Dangerous Than Smoking

Just when using electronic cigarettes has been found to be as dangerous as smoking tobacco, marijuana products had entered the vaping world. Many people believe that vaping weed is a safer option compared to smoking it directly. However, scientists have discovered that its mental effects could be damaging to those who do not always consume them.

Scientists from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine found that people who used cannabis rarely react more strongly to marijuana vapes, even if there is no difference in the dosage. Participants of their study were observed to be more prone to getting distracted, anxious or paranoid, with some even experiencing short-term memory loss.

The tools used by vapers function by heating marijuana to a high temperature, thus resulting in stronger psychoactive results in those who are not used to the product when inhaled.

In a press release, Ryan Vandrey, associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the university, cautioned that infrequent cannabis users should be more wary about how much they use with a vaporizer, noting that dosage conditions are crucial. The study’s participants were asked to smoke or vape weed containing 0, 10, or 25 mg of THC. Typical “joints” contain 25 mg, which is considered a low dose.

After six sessions, the researchers saw that those who vaped 25 milligrams reported a stronger “high” compared to those who smoked the same amount. The former also had more reports of anxious and paranoid feelings. Additionally, those who vaped posted higher levels of dry eyes and mouth.

To date, there are more than 10 U.S. states that allow the use of cannabis for recreational purposes and over 20 for medical reasons. It is because of these changes that people have become more open to trying weed for the first time.

With that said, Association of Cannabis Specialists president and chief executive Dr. Jordan Tishler warned that because vaporizers are designed to distribute the effects of cannabis more “efficiently,” people should take less. If you’re a first-time user and must have weed on vape, the key is to start small and start slow.