Although more research is necessary, recent tests performed by Aurelius Data, the first global data company in plant-based medicines, has prompted them to put out an advisory warning that consuming cannabis products with Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) if infected with COVID-19 can potentially cause harmful side effects. As for Cannabidiol (CBD), another compound of the cannabis plant, which helps modulate autoimmune and inflammatory responses, will also be tested to see if it produces the same or different results. The research will be done to accurately map the relationship between the immune and endocannabinoid system – a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990’s.
We know that the epidemiology of COVID-19 is similar to the influenza virus and has a similar disease presentation. And we know that in studies where THC was administered to mice with influenza, we saw an increase in viral loads and a decrease in the immune system to fight off the virus. It stands to reason that the same would hold true for Coronavirus and THC consumption could diminish the immune system of someone infected with the virus, said Julie Armstrong, CEO of Aurelius Data. Medical Cannabis patients across this country are going to be affected by COVID-19 just like the rest of the population and they need to be aware of the interactions their cannabis medications could have on this disease. We are working to collect data in this under researched area and provide them with the best recommendations we can moving forward.
Dr. Barry Mennen, an adviser to Aurelius Data, was quoted as saying, Although no clinical trials exist showing poorer outcomes in patients infected with COVID-19 who use therapeutic or recreational cannabis, the data from pre-human studies urge caution for these individuals in the face of the current viral epidemic. Given the rapid spread of the new Covid-19 virus and all the unknowns about it, if you are a user of any cannabis products it might be wise to consult your doctor about it – or abstain from using it if you become infected or think you might have contracted it.
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