Finding relief is important, but so is safety. If you are considering using the D9 gummies, a few simple habits can help you feel at ease and avoid undesirable side effects. Whenever possible, look for third-party lab-tested products that have seen clear labeling of cannabinoids so that you know how much you are taking. Here is a soft and practical check list that you can use before, during, and after each dose. Take a little extra time before each dose to simplify what could be a (safe)very overwhelming adventure and make it easier to enjoy!
Interactions with Medications
Medications can alter how your body processes hemp derived Delta-9. Some medications become more pronounced, some will react to the D9 compound to make them less effective, and some may combine for you to be extra sleepy or dizzy. Always label what you take and when, so that you can find some identifiable patterns and share them with your clinician. Even slight changes participate in the regular medications that you take will change how the gummies feel in your body.
- Some blood thinners and antiplatelets may need closer monitoring.
- Heart and blood pressure medications can sometimes have unpredictable interactions.
- Sleeping pills, opioid medications, or benzodiazepines can make increased sedation and an increased risk of falls.
- Certain antidepressants may reflect side effects like dry mouth or confusion. Read more at this link https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/antidepressants/.
- If anything comes off as “off” then stop the gummies and contact your provider.
Lower-Dose Strategies
Most older adults are best served easing in. Try to focus on microdosing edibles—a tiny amount to start with and then if needed, go slower in increasing. Start with the lowest strength available, then wait a full 6–8 hours to determine whether you want to take more. If you are just checking out the experience, you can do so anytime, check this page for some reminders that you may print or share. Important: everybody’s tolerance is different, so be patient in order to find balance.
Monitoring Blood Pressure
THC edibles may cause your blood pressure to drop or spike, especially in the instance when you get up too quickly. If you are trying gummies for the first few times, allow for calm seated time, and keep water handy. If you ever feel lightheaded, please sit or lie down and move your breath slowly.
- Take a seated reading before dosing and a second at 2 hours.
- When you are ready to stand up, do it slowly; use support rails or a cane if available.
- Do not engage in hot tubs or saunas right after dosing.
- If you experience issues such as repeated dizziness or palpitations, call your clinician.
Talking to Doctors
You have a right to receive services that are supportive of your lifestyle. Tell your clinician that you are going to try cannabis gummies, what you hope to improve (sleep, discomfort, mood), and how often you plan to take them. Consider bringing a short list of products you are thinking about, including milligrams per gummy and the CBD-to-THC ratio so the doctor can support safety and compatibility with your conditions. Open and honest conversation can ensure that your treatment plan is supportive of your health objectives.
Storage Away from Kids
Gummies can look like candy, so treat gummy products like medicine. Safe storage protects children, youth, and pets, and it saves you from unanticipated scary times! Keep your routine as simple and consistent as possible so you do not have to guess where your products are.
- Use a locking storage box or a high cabinet space, do not store in a purse or by your bed.
- Retain your original child-resistant packaging and ensure your labels are clear.
- Try to store your doses separate from your normal snacks to help prevent confusion.
- Be sure to write down the date and strength, and what your usual amount was, on the container.
- Make sure to include anyone who visits your household, or supports you, in your safety plan.
