University of California study finds cannabis inhalation reduces ectopic heartbeats

Researchers affiliated with the University of California conducted a randomized crossover trial to examine the acute effects of inhaled cannabis on cardiac ectopy, which refers to irregular heartbeats. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, involved 108 self-reported cannabis consumers who did not have a history of cardiac arrhythmias.

The findings indicated that inhaled cannabis resulted in a statistically significant 9% reduction in ectopic beats. Specifically, daily premature atrial contractions decreased by 10%, while premature ventricular contractions showed no significant change. Each instance of cannabis inhalation was associated with a 2% reduction in ectopic beats. The study noted no significant differences in sleep or step counts.