Can You Get High From Vaping?

Vaping has become a popular method of consuming cannabis and tobacco, as it is believed to be safer than traditional smoking due to the lack of harmful components such as tar and other cancer-causing agents. However, a study conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine suggests that vaping might deliver greater amounts of THC, the primary intoxicant in cannabis, which increases the likelihood of adverse reactions, especially for individuals who don’t use cannabis regularly.

The study involved 17 volunteer participants who hadn’t used cannabis in the past 30 days and had not used it regularly for over a year. The participants were either given cannabis to smoke or vape, with different doses of THC. The researchers found that participants who vaped 25 milligrams of THC reported feeling higher compared to those who smoked the same dose. Additionally, individuals who vaped any dose of THC reported higher levels of anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, and dry eyes compared to those who smoked it.

Key Takeaways:

• Vaping cannabis may deliver greater amounts of THC, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions.
• Participants who vaped 25 milligrams of THC reported feeling higher compared to those who smoked the same dose.
• Individuals who vaped any dose of THC reported higher levels of anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, and dry eyes compared to those who smoked it.

A Study on Vaping and THC Levels

A study conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine sought to determine whether vaping could result in a higher level of THC and a stronger high compared to smoking. The study involved 17 volunteer participants who hadn’t used cannabis in the past 30 days and had not used it regularly for over a year. The participants were either given cannabis to smoke or vape, with different doses of THC.

The researchers found that participants who vaped 25 milligrams of THC reported feeling higher compared to those who smoked the same dose. Additionally, individuals who vaped any dose of THC reported higher levels of anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, and dry eyes compared to those who smoked it.

The study also assessed the effects of vaping and smoking on cognitive function and reaction time. Participants who vaped or smoked THC performed worse on computerized tasks measuring attention span, memory, physical reaction time, and motor movement compared to when they consumed cannabis without THC. Reaction times were slower by more than 120 milliseconds with both vaping and smoking THC, and the ability to accurately track objects on a computer screen decreased by an average of 170 percent after smoking 25 milligrams of THC compared to cannabis without THC.

Blood levels of THC were found to be higher immediately after vaping or smoking cannabis, with vaping resulting in higher blood levels compared to smoking. However, the study found that blood testing might not accurately indicate if someone is high or under the influence of cannabis, as THC levels in the blood were detected only up to four hours after consumption, despite participants reporting the drug’s effects lasting for five to six hours.

Adverse Reactions and Cognitive Impairment

The study found that participants who vaped THC reported higher levels of anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, and dry eyes compared to those who smoked it. These adverse reactions can be especially concerning for individuals who do not regularly use cannabis or have a low tolerance for THC.

Furthermore, the study assessed the impact of vaping and smoking on cognitive function and found that both methods resulted in impaired performance on computerized tasks measuring attention span, memory, physical reaction time, and motor movement. Participants’ reaction times were slower by more than 120 milliseconds with both vaping and smoking THC, and their ability to accurately track objects on a computer screen decreased by an average of 170 percent after smoking 25 milligrams of THC compared to cannabis without THC.

Cognitive impairment is a significant concern for individuals who operate heavy machinery or drive while under the influence, as it can lead to accidents and injuries. Moreover, some studies suggest that cognitive impairment can be long-lasting, with research showing that individuals who use cannabis regularly may experience deficits in their cognitive abilities for up to six weeks after quitting.

While the long-term effects of vaping remain unclear, it is evident that it has the potential to harm cognitive function and result in adverse reactions. It is essential to be aware of these risks and make informed decisions about your cannabis consumption.

Blood Levels of THC and Detection

The study revealed higher levels of THC in the blood immediately after vaping or smoking cannabis, but the detection period for THC in the blood was limited to only four hours. Blood levels of THC were found to be higher after vaping compared to smoking. However, blood testing might not accurately indicate someone’s level of impairment, as participants reported feeling high for five to six hours after consumption, even though THC levels were detected in the blood for only four hours.

Long-Term Effects and Concerns

While the study spanned only six weeks, it raises important questions about the long-term effects of vaping, especially considering the growing popularity of vaping devices for marijuana consumption. Experts warn that the long-term health effects of vaping are not yet fully understood, as the chemicals used in e-cigarettes and vaping devices may have harmful effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Research has linked e-cigarette use to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other lung diseases, as well as an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. With regards to vaping marijuana, concerns have been raised about the potential for lung damage caused by inhaling vaporized oil droplets, which can accumulate in the lungs and cause inflammation.

“There are lots of chemicals that we believe are safe to eat, but when we inhale them, they can have different effects and be toxic,” warns Laura Crotty Alexander, a pulmonary critical care physician at the University of California, San Diego.

Additionally, the lack of regulation and quality control in the manufacturing of vaping devices and products is a cause for concern. The absence of FDA approval means that the chemicals used in e-cigarettes and vaping devices are not subject to rigorous testing and regulation, potentially exposing users to unknown and harmful substances.

Another concern is the appeal of vaping to younger generations. Studies have shown that the attractive flavors and marketing strategies used by vaping companies can make e-cigarettes appealing to young people, leading to an increase in nicotine addiction and tobacco use among teenagers and young adults.

One of the most significant concerns about vaping is the risk of addiction. The high concentrations of nicotine found in many vaping products can lead to dependence, making it difficult for individuals to quit or reduce their use of nicotine-containing products.

While vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, the long-term effects of vaping, particularly the unknown chemicals present in vape products, are still not fully understood. Given the potential risks to health, it is crucial to approach cannabis consumption, including vaping, with caution, and to seek reputable and reliable information before making any decisions about use.

Risks for Teenagers and Young Adults

Vaping marijuana poses particular risks to the developing brains and lungs of teenagers and young adults, potentially impacting critical thinking skills, coordination, and mental health. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that marijuana use during adolescence can lead to long-lasting changes in brain function and increased likelihood of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychotic episodes. In addition, vaping devices can potentially expose young people to harmful chemicals and metals such as lead and nickel.

The use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices among youth has been declared an epidemic by the US Surgeon General, with a reported 3.6 million middle and high school students using e-cigarettes in 2020. The appealing flavors and marketing tactics used in the vaping industry have made it more attractive to young people, and the popularity of these devices has led to nicotine addiction and increased likelihood of traditional tobacco product use in the future.

The use of THC-containing e-cigarettes or vaping products by young people is of particular concern, as it can lead to addiction, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk of mental health issues. Additionally, as the developing adolescent brain may be more susceptible to the negative effects of cannabis, the use of marijuana through vaping devices poses an increased risk to critical thinking skills, reaction time, and coordination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned against using e-cigarettes or vaping products, particularly those containing THC, and urges young people to avoid vaping altogether.

Prevention and Support

• Educate young people on the risks associated with vaping and using e-cigarettes
• Encourage open communication with young people and provide resources for support and treatment for addiction or mental health issues
• Advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement of age restrictions on purchasing vaping devices and products
• Support ongoing research on the long-term effects of vaping and cannabis use

By taking proactive steps to prevent young people from using vaping devices and educating them on the risks associated with cannabis use, we can help protect the developing brains and lungs of our youth and promote healthy decision-making regarding cannabis consumption.

Risks of Vaping Cannabis

In conclusion, vaping cannabis may result in a higher THC intake, leading to potential adverse reactions, impaired cognitive function, and addiction, especially in teenagers and young adults. The study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found that vaping THC delivers higher amounts of the primary intoxicant in cannabis, which may increase the likelihood of adverse reactions among individuals who don’t use cannabis regularly. Additionally, vaping and smoking THC can impair cognitive function, including attention span, memory, and physical reaction time.

Moreover, there are concerns about the long-term effects of vaping, as more research is needed to fully understand the impact of vaping devices on health, particularly the unknown chemicals present in vape products. Furthermore, vaping marijuana poses risks to the brain and lungs of teenagers and young adults, who are particularly susceptible to the negative effects of marijuana. Vaping devices may also contribute to nicotine addiction and increase the likelihood of using traditional tobacco products in the future.

The CDC advises against using THC-containing e-cigarettes or vaping products and warns against obtaining vaping devices from informal sources or modifying them with substances not intended by the manufacturer. While vaping may expose users to fewer toxic chemicals than smoking traditional cigarettes, it is still not considered safe and can be detrimental to heart and lung health.

It is crucial for individuals, particularly young people, to be aware of the risks associated with vaping cannabis and make informed decisions about their cannabis consumption. The attractive flavors and lack of smoke associated with vaping may make it more appealing to young people, who may perceive vaping as less harmful than smoking. However, the potential risks of vaping should not be overlooked, and it is important to prioritize one’s health and well-being when consuming cannabis.

FAQ

Q: Can vaping cannabis get you high?

A: Yes, vaping cannabis can get you high. A study found that participants who vaped THC reported feeling higher compared to those who smoked the same dose.

Q: What are the potential adverse reactions to vaping THC?

A: Individuals who vaped THC reported higher levels of anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, and dry eyes compared to those who smoked it.

Q: Does vaping impair cognitive function?

A: Yes, both vaping and smoking THC were found to impair cognitive function, affecting attention span, memory, physical reaction time, and motor movement.

Q: How long do THC levels stay in the blood after vaping or smoking?

A: THC levels in the blood were detected only up to four hours after consumption, despite participants reporting the drug’s effects lasting for five to six hours.

Q: What are the long-term effects of vaping?

A: More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of vaping, especially with the unknown chemicals present in vape products.

Q: Are there specific risks for teenagers and young adults who vape?

A: Yes, vaping cannabis poses risks to the brain and lungs of teenagers and young adults, including impaired cognitive function, decline in school performance, increased risk of mental health issues, and addiction.

Source Links

• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/vaping-cannabis-produces-stronger-effects-than-smoking-cannabis-for-infrequent-users
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-truths-you-need-to-know-about-vaping
• https://drugfree.org/article/vaping-and-marijuana-what-you-need-to-know/