Summary
Acute THC (cannabis) use decreases parasympathetic HRV and increases heart rate in a dose-dependent manner. Effects persist during sleep, potentially indicating cardiovascular stress.
Methods
Controlled THC administration with HRV monitoring
Key Findings
- THC dose-dependently increases heart rate
- HF-HRV decreases with THC administration
- Greater intoxication = greater HRV reduction
- Effects persist during sleep (22-23% RMSSD reduction)
- Women may be particularly affected
Limitations
Acute effects; chronic users may differ
What This Means for You
Cannabis use acutely impairs parasympathetic function. If tracking HRV, expect lower values after cannabis use. Effects on sleep HRV may indicate cardiovascular stress even without symptoms.
Source
Read the original paper in Psychophysiology ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2025-01-10