Drugs Dramatically Boost Stroke Risk, Study Finds

Recreational drug use can substantially increase the likelihood of experiencing a stroke. A large-scale analysis of medical data involving more than 100 million individuals indicates that users of amphetamines and cocaine face a significantly higher risk of stroke compared to non-users. Specifically, amphetamine users showed a 122% increase, while cocaine users had a 97% higher risk.

Cannabis use was also associated with a 37% greater risk of stroke. The study, published in the International Journal of Stroke, found these elevated risks are particularly concerning for younger populations. Researchers observed that individuals under 55 who used amphetamines had a nearly threefold increase in stroke risk. This research suggests that illicit drug use is a preventable factor contributing to strokes, a condition that is the third leading cause of death globally.

Scientists believe drugs like amphetamines and cocaine may cause strokes by rapidly increasing blood pressure and constricting brain blood vessels, leading to blockages or ruptures. Cocaine may also accelerate atherosclerosis, hardening arteries. While the exact mechanisms for cannabis are still being explored, it appears to constrict blood vessels and potentially promote blood clot formation. Opioids, however, did not show an increased stroke risk in this analysis.