Recent research from the University of California, San Diego highlights growing concerns about the health risks associated with cannabis use among older adults. Dr. Benjamin Han, a geriatrician and addiction medicine specialist, shares insights from his clinical experience to illustrate the potential dangers [1][2][3].

Han recounts a case involving a 76-year-old patient struggling with insomnia. The patient's daughter provided her with cannabis-infused gummies to aid sleep. However, the situation quickly escalated when the patient, unfamiliar with proper dosing, consumed four 10-milligram THC gummies over several hours [1][2][3].

'She had problems falling asleep, and she'd wake up in the middle of the night,' Han explained. 'So her daughter brought her some sleep gummies.' The patient's overconsumption led to intense anxiety and heart palpitations, symptoms that could be particularly concerning for older individuals [1][2][3].

Han emphasizes the importance of cautious cannabis use, especially for older adults. He advises patients to 'start low; go slow,' recommending initial doses of just 1 or 2.5 milligrams of THC [1][2][3].

This case study underscores the need for better education and guidance for older adults considering cannabis use. As the population of older cannabis users grows, healthcare providers are increasingly concerned about potential interactions with other medications and age-related health conditions [1][2][3].

The research from UC San Diego contributes to a growing body of evidence suggesting that while cannabis may offer certain benefits, its use among older adults requires careful consideration and medical supervision [1][2][3].