Weed Diarrhoea: Can Medical Marijuana Cause Diarrhoea?

Cannabis has long been a contested topic in medical discussions. Although it is often celebrated for its therapeutic potential, it’s not without its controversies. However, as its acceptance continues to grow in society, many are curious to know how it affects their health. 

Among the many questions that arise, a particularly common one is, ‘Does weed cause diarrhoea?’ This article is here to clear the air about cannabis-induced diarrhoea, or ‘weed diarrhoea’ as it is often referred to. 

So, if you’re considering using medical cannabis for relief, we’ll break down the full spectrum of its effects and dispel any myths so you know exactly what to expect. 

How Does Marijuana Work With the Digestive System?

Marijuana primarily affects the digestive system by engaging with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates gut function and inflammation. THC, a key component of marijuana, can affect gut motility and secretion, potentially impacting conditions like nausea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how cannabis affects our gut health and whether it could lead to issues like diarrhoea:

The Endocannabinoid System and Gut Health

• Role of the ECS: The ECS helps maintain balance in the body’s biological processes. In the gut, it regulates functions like inflammation, gut motility (the movement of food through the digestive tract), and intestinal secretion.
• Interaction With Cannabis: Compounds in cannabis, primarily THC and CBD, interact with ECS receptors in the digestive system. This can influence the above processes in significant ways.

Can Weed Cause Diarrhoea?

Responses to cannabis can vary widely. Some people find that it helps manage symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to modulate pain. Specifically, patients with IBS reported that its use improved symptoms such as abdominal pain, abdominal cramping, joint pain, and diarrhoea. [1] 

However, for others, it might accelerate gut motility, leading to issues like diarrhoea. For instance, another study found that heavy use of cannabis was associated with more voluminous diarrhoea when individuals were exposed to certain bacteria like Vibrio cholerae. This indicates that it may predispose users in certain situations. [2] 

Importantly, the above research suggests that individual responses to cannabis can vary based on the complexity of gut pathology and the context in which it is used. Given these varied effects, consulting with healthcare providers who understand both the potential benefits and risks is crucial.

The Symptoms of Weed-Induced Diarrhoea

When exploring the side effects of cannabis, particularly its impact on the digestive system, it’s essential to understand the symptoms that might signal trouble. Let’s break down what these reactions are as well as the factors that might influence them.

Identifying the Symptoms

Factors Influencing Digestive Reactions

Expert Opinions and Medical Advice on Cannabis for Digestive Health

With regard to how medical cannabis can help with gastroenterological conditions, the advice from medical experts is both specific and cautious. For example, researchers in a 2017 study state: [3]

 “Although the current literature supports the use of marijuana for the treatment of digestive disorders, the clinical efficacy of cannabis and its constituents for various GI disorders remains unclear.”

This indicates a need for more controlled and extensive studies to determine the substance’s effectiveness and safety in treating these conditions. In light of this, the following insights detail the professional approach recommended for integrating cannabis into gastroenterological treatments.

Personalised Medical Consultation

Since every individual’s body chemistry and health history differ, the effects of medical cannabis can vary significantly from one person to another. Specialists in gastroenterology and cannabinoid medicine emphasise the importance of conducting thorough medical assessments to determine the appropriateness of a prescription and the best method of consumption. This process includes reviewing the patient’s medical history, current medications, and overall health status to ensure that such treatment is appropriate and safe.

Graduated Dosage Strategy

Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it based on the patient’s response is a cornerstone of medical cannabis therapy. Known as titration, this cautious approach helps minimise potential adverse effects, such as worsening of symptoms or the onset of new ones like diarrhoea. 

Monitoring and Adjustments

Regular follow-ups allow healthcare providers to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make necessary adjustments. Monitoring includes checking for any side effects, evaluating symptom relief, and ensuring that the treatment aligns with the patient’s lifestyle and other health considerations. 

Educational Outreach

Discussions about the legal aspects of cannabis use, the different forms and strains, and the most suitable administration methods are something experts advocate for. In places like the UK, where only some methods of consumption are legally sanctioned for medical use, it is particularly important to educate patients on the reasons behind this regulation and the potential risks associated with other forms of consumption.

Many cannabis clinics and dispensaries provide educational resources and support groups where patients can learn from other’s experiences and share their own.

Integrating Conventional and Cannabis-Based Treatments

Specialists often develop integrated treatment plans that combine the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of cannabis with conventional medications and therapies to offer synergistic benefits. This approach aims to enhance overall treatment efficacy while managing the symptoms more holistically.

Incorporating Natural Remedies

Side effects like diarrhoea and nausea can often accompany both the underlying medical condition and cannabis use. In such cases, individuals might benefit from integrating natural alternatives into their treatment plans. For instance, ginger, peppermint, and chamomile are well-known natural remedies for nausea and can be used alongside prescribed cannabis therapy to help soothe the stomach. 

How to Consume Cannabis Safely for Digestive Health

When considering cannabis for medical use, understanding the various methods of consumption and their impact on the gut is essential. Each technique delivers cannabinoids to the body in a unique way, influencing both effectiveness and side effects.

Vaping

This method allows for the control of dosage and reduces exposure to harmful byproducts that are typically produced by combustion, such as tar and carbon monoxide. It heats cannabis to a temperature that releases its active compounds in a vapour form without burning the plant material. 

Vaping can be beneficial for users who need quick relief without the gastrointestinal upset that other methods might cause. It delivers cannabinoids directly to the bloodstream via the lungs, therefore minimising the impact on the digestive system, including the risk of diarrhoea.

Edibles

Consuming cannabis-infused foods and drinks introduces cannabinoids through the digestive tract. This method results in a delayed onset of effects as the active ingredients must first be processed by the liver. While edibles avoid respiratory exposure, they can significantly affect the gut. 

For some, edibles provide long-lasting relief of abdominal pain and reduce inflammation due to their prolonged effect. However, for others, they can exacerbate or trigger symptoms such as diarrhoea. The variability in how individuals metabolise edibles can make dosing challenging and increase the risk of unintended side effects.

Oils and Tinctures

Cannabis oils and tinctures offer versatility and ease of use, with the ability to control dosages precisely through measured drops. These can be consumed sublingually (absorbed directly into the bloodstream from under the tongue), offering a middle ground between the rapid action of vaping and the prolonged effects of edibles. This method reduces the impact on the digestive system and can be a good choice for those concerned about gastrointestinal issues.

Lyphe: Pioneering Cannabis Treatments for Gastrointestinal Wellness

At Lyphe, our focus is on integrating medical cannabis into comprehensive healthcare, particularly for those grappling with challenging conditions like gastrointestinal issues and associated symptoms such as diarrhoea.

We understand that navigating the world of medical cannabis can be complex, especially when dealing with symptoms that affect quality of life. To this end, our team of experts is trained to tailor treatments to individual needs, ensuring that each patient receives the optimal type, dosage, and method of consumption. This bespoke service is crucial for those who may have experienced varying reactions, or who are seeking alternative therapeutic options that align with legal standards.

Hence, for anyone struggling with digestive issues potentially linked to medical cannabis use, or for those curious about how it might alleviate their symptoms, Lyphe provides a supportive and expert-driven environment. Our holistic approach ensures that all aspects of a patient’s health are considered, making us a trusted partner in medical cannabis care.

To explore how Lyphe can help manage your symptoms and tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you, book an appointment today.

Conclusion

Understanding how marijuana, often associated with ‘weed diarrhoea,’ interacts with our digestive system through the endocannabinoid system is key for those considering its medical use. It’s important to choose the right dosage and method of consumption, with vaping often recommended as the legal option. 

Consulting healthcare providers is also essential to ensure that any treatment is tailored to your specific needs. For personalised care and expert guidance on safely and effectively using medical cannabis, consider booking an appointment with Lyphe.

Frequently Asked Questions