Cannabis and stroke: is there a link?

Abstract

Stroke associated with drug abuse has been frequently reported, particularly in young patients. The most commonly implicated drugs include cocaine, heroine, and amphetamines. Despite its widespread abuse, cannabis associated stroke is only infrequently reported. The cause and effect association between cannabis use and stroke is not firmly established. Presuming that cannabis may cause stroke, potential pathophysiologic mechanisms are not known. In this paper, we shall review the literature linking cannabis use and stroke and possible mechanisms supporting this link.