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Age matters when it comes to cannabis use in rheumatic disease. A new survey found that younger adults with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) reported greater mental health improvements — including less anxiety and depression — from cannabis than older adults. However, they also experienced more adverse effects like dizziness, fatigue, and rapid heart rate.
A cross-sectional survey presented at ACR Convergence 2026 reveals that age significantly shapes how patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) experience cannabis — both its benefits and its downsides. Among 188 cannabis users surveyed, younger adults (under 60) reported stronger mental health gains, while older adults tended to stick to CBD-only products and reported fewer adverse effects.
Younger patients were more likely to use THC/CBD combinations and showed greater improvements in anxiety, depression, migraines, and overall well-being. Older adults, on the other hand, had a higher prevalence of osteoarthritis and greater comorbidity burden, making cannabis use in that group more complex.
Key Takeaways:
Why it matters: These findings highlight that a one-size-fits-all approach to cannabis in RMD care won't work. Clinicians need age-tailored guidance — especially for older patients managing polypharmacy and higher comorbidity loads — as cannabis use continues to grow in this population.
