The TSA is reviewing medical marijuana guidelines, but experts are urging caution

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently updated its medical marijuana guidelines, adding specific instructions on “What Can I Bring?” directory of both carry-on and checked-in bags.

Patients who use cannabis to treat chronic pain, anxiety, nausea or other relevant conditions may take their medication with them to use on the go.

If you’re taking medical marijuana on a plane, experts suggest separating the travel process from treatment and waiting until you get to your destination before using the substance.

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“For most patients, the goal is not to use cannabis on the plane. It’s to make sure they get their medicine when they arrive,” said Professor Rob Mejia of the Stockton University Cannabis Studies Department, who is also the author of “The Essential Cannabis Book,” told Fox News Digital.

Using cannabis on a plane is generally not recommended. Airlines strictly prohibit smoking and vaping, and edible products can behave in unpredictable ways.

While some experienced consumers may use a low dose before a flight to manage flight anxiety or promote sleep, Mejia said the key is to get used to it.

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“An airport or an airplane is not a place to test a new product or take an unfamiliar dose,” he advised. “What feels relaxing to an experienced buyer may feel frustrating to a less experienced buyer.”

According to clinical data published by the American College of Cardiology, marijuana use significantly alters heart rhythm regulation and increases the total oxygen demand of the heart muscle.

“An airport or an airplane is no place to test a new product or take an unfamiliar dose.”

When this high heart pressure combines with the nervous system’s natural response to altitude – which, according to a University of Florida study, already forces the heart to beat faster to distribute low levels of oxygen – it can cause severe cardiovascular stress.

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Rather than easing travel anxiety, using unexpected or high-energy doses at high altitudes can worsen symptoms such as severe nausea, dizziness and shortness of breath, research shows.

Previous data shows that cannabis can change heart rhythm and oxygen demand, which may not be suitable for cabin altitude. (Stock)

“The overall goal should be continuity of care during the trip, not treatment at 35,000 feet,” Mejia said.

For a growing number of patients, cannabis is no longer just an alternative treatment, but serves as a first-line drug. In these cases, before going with the substance, preparation is everything, experts say.

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“The safest plan for traveling with cannabis is to understand the rules before you pack,” Mejia advised, warning travelers not to misinterpret the revised language.

Using unexpected or high-strength doses at high altitudes can backfire, leading to severe nausea, dizziness and hyperventilation rather than relieving travel anxiety, experts note. (Stock)

“The TSA checkpoint is not a legal defense against state or local law enforcement,” the expert noted. “TSA looks at security threats, not marijuana. That doesn’t mean marijuana won’t be your problem.”

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“If your marijuana looks legal, labeled and packaged professionally, you’re less likely to raise questions.”

“If your marijuana looks legal, labeled and packaged professionally, you’re less likely to ask questions than if you’re carrying a bag of mysterious gummies and a handful of loose flowers,” Mejia said.

“TSA looks at security threats, not marijuana. That doesn’t mean marijuana won’t be your problem.” (Stock)

If something raises eyebrows, the agent has the authority to refer the matter to law enforcement.

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While domestic travel has entered a gray area, international travel remains a completely different set of rules. Crossing international borders with cannabis has serious risks, regardless of the laws of the country you’re visiting, experts say.

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“If you travel abroad, leave your marijuana at home,” advises Mejia. “Even in countries that have legalized marijuana, the rules for visitors can be very different than the rules for residents.”