A scoping review of 31 systematic reviews found that sedation, dizziness, nausea, and euphoria were the most common side effects of medical cannabis, all of which could reduce workplace alertness and increase injury risk.
Medical cannabis patients who work, employers, occupational health professionals.
Sedation, dizziness, nausea, and euphoria were the most common workplace-relevant side effects
What the researchers found
Across 31 systematic reviews and meta-analyses, the most predominant adverse events of medical cannabis were sedation, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, and euphoria. These could translate to decreased alertness and reaction times, increased absenteeism, reduced ability to safely drive or operate machinery, and increased fall probability.
Why it matters
As medical cannabis prescriptions increase, more workers are using cannabis therapeutically while on the job. Employers and occupational health professionals need to understand the specific adverse effects that could compromise safety.
The numbers in context
1,326 papers screened, 31 included. Most common adverse events: sedation, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, euphoria. Pain was the most prevalent condition studied.
How the study worked
Scoping review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses published from 2015 to March 2021, identified from six databases. Of 1,326 papers initially identified, 31 met inclusion criteria.
What this study cannot tell us
Scoping review of reviews means original data was not directly assessed. Cannot quantify actual workplace accident rates. Does not distinguish between formulations or dosing schedules.
How to read the evidence
Scoping review synthesizing 31 systematic reviews provides broad overview but is limited by heterogeneity.
When this study was published
Published 2023, reviewing literature from 2015-2021.
The bigger picture
Workplace cannabis policies have traditionally focused on recreational use. Medical cannabis creates a new challenge: balancing legitimate therapeutic needs against safety-sensitive job requirements.
Questions still open
- Can workplace accommodations mitigate the safety risks of medical cannabis?
- Do adverse effects diminish with tolerance over time?
Common questions
Can medical cannabis affect work performance?
What are the main workplace risks from medical cannabis?
Read the original research
Medicinal Cannabis and Implications for Workplace Health and Safety: Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews.
Workplace health & safety, 71(9), 400-410
Citation
O'Neill, Veronica; Karanikas, Nektarios; Sav, Adem; Murphy, Patricia. (2023). Medicinal Cannabis and Implications for Workplace Health and Safety: Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews.. Workplace health & safety, 71(9), 400-410. https://doi.org/10.1177/21650799231157086
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