Why Some People React Badly to Marijuana

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These days, everyone seems to be touting the benefits of marijuana. Those with anxiety say it helps them to relax. Those with depression say it elevates their mood. Some even say that marijuana relieves the symptoms of PTSD.

But for a small segment of the population, the effects of marijuana are more hellish than anything else. Do a quick search online and you’ll find countless forums on people who have had adverse reactions to it. Some of the most common complaints include terrifying hallucinations, paranoia, dizziness, vomiting, and panic attacks.

So why does marijuana produce euphoria in some and misery in others? Research points to genetics.

A recent study published in Translation Psychiatry identified a variation of the AKT1 gene as being the reason why some are more sensitive to the mind-altering effects of marijuana than others.

Dr. Celia Morgan, lead author of the study, says that while some studies suggest only 1-5% of the marijuana users end up experiencing a psychotic episode, it’s ultimately the ATKT1 gene that makes a person more susceptible to it. 

“We know relatively little about what makes certain people vulnerable to developing psychosis from smoking cannabis but this research suggests one piece in the puzzle might be this genetic difference,” Dr. Morgan stated. “Cannabis and its extracts are being increasingly recognized for their medical uses so this is another reason why it is key to keep trying to find ways of predicting who will experience negative effects from its use.”

However, Dr. Morgan was also quick to note that “much more work is needed” to fully identify what puts a person at risk, as it’s likely to be a large number of genes.

But not everyone believes that genetics are responsible for a bad trip. In fact, most marijuana websites and forums say that ingesting too much or using the wrong strain is the reason why people have bad trips. However, it’s worth noting that these are not medical experts, so take that advice for what you will.

What was your experience with marijuana? Why do you think some people react badly to it? Let me know in the comments below!   

Marijuana for Veterans

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New research suggests that marijuana can help alleviate the symptoms of PTSD. The recent study was led by Zach Walsh—an associate professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia. Walsh believes that the clinical side of marijuana should be taken more seriously.

“This is a substance that has potential use for mental health,” Walsh stated. “We should be looking at it in the same way [as other pharmaceuticals] and be holding it up to the same standard.”

But the idea that marijuana can be used to reduce the effects of PTSD is hardly new. For years now, users have been touting about how it can ease anxiety, irritability, and depression (all of which are symptoms associated with PTSD). But despite it being so widely talked about in a general sense, the scientific community hasn’t really studied these claims in much detail… until now.

"In reviewing the limited evidence on medical cannabis, it appears that patients and others who have advocated for cannabis as a tool for harm reduction and mental health have some valid points," Walsh asserted.

The study, which was published in the Clinical Psychology Review, is making headlines for its controversial findings. Walsh is hoping that the study can erase some of the stigma associated with cannabis use. The study was published yesterday, November 16, 2016, and several big-name media outlets have already written about it, including Time Magazine.

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, several states permit medical marijuana use for PTSD. However, don’t get too excited because the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs also warns that regular cannabis use can lead to chronic bronchitis, psychosis, and even addiction.

Veterans who want to try cannabis as a treatment option are advised to seek medical guidance beforehand. A complete list of states that allow medical marijuana use can be viewed here.