This study examined cannabis use and driving impairment in older drivers. This small-scale cohort study of this age group (N=31) occurred in Toronto, Canada from March to November 2022. Utilizing a driving simulator for evaluation, drivers consumed THC dominant cannabis, researchers examined driving behavior at 30 and 180 minutes (3-hours) after last cannabis exposure. While blood THC and THC metabolite levels were elevated at the 30-minute mark, it had declined at the 180-minute mark. 

Weaving within a lane was the was the most common short-term driving behavior observed. Failure to maintain driving speed, as proposed by the authors, was in response to, “… the subject’s awareness that they were intoxicated”.Participants provided their personal subjective assessment of impairment and expressed being “less willing to drive” from 3 – 5 hours after their last exposure.

Of note was that the participants reported their cannabis habits as primarily recreational, more than once per week, and the cohort reported historical use for the past 40 years (mean value).   

More research is needed to fully understand the effects of cannabis upon driving behavior. Based upon existing research, it demonstrates that cannabis does have a detrimental effect on users who elect to drive after consumption regardless of years of use and tolerance.    

Read Time: 5-10 minutes 

Photo: Unsplash.com / McLean, E.

The post Cannabis & Driving: Impairment in Older, THC Experienced, Adults appeared first on Marijuana Impact Group.

Using set dosing levels of THC (20mg, 10mg and 2.3mg) researchers established that there was a “… significant positive association…” of these THC dosage levels and “light-headedness and perception disorder”. The authors note that perception disorders were found in 2 of the numerous studies used in the report.

In their findings the authors note that, in addition to the increase incident risk ratios from use, that adults over 50 should exercise caution in using THC due to increased risk of fall from  “light-headedness and dizziness”. No association with other neuropsychiatric adverse effect was reported by participants and further studies into this area are needed.  

Read Time: 5 – 10 minutes

Image: A.Grubnyak / unsplash.com

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