More and more people across the country are able to consume cannabis legally. At the same time, we must understand the associated risk factors. Education and responsible consumption are necessary to protect public health and safety.
Scientific evidence supports the use of medical cannabis for a range of therapeutic indications. For recreational users, the estimated chances of becoming dependent on cannabis after any lifetime exposure is 8.9%, which is considerably lower than for cocaine (20.9%), alcohol (22.7%) or tobacco (67.5%) (Lopez-Quintero et al., 2011).
THC
THC is a cannabinoid with psychoactive properties. THC is a Schedule 1 drug under the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances because it has the capacity to produce a state of dependence (United Nations, 1971).
CBD
CBD is a cannabinoid with no psychoactive properties and has no abuse potential. (WHO, 2018).
Recommendations for Safe Cannabis Use
1. Initiate cannabis use after age 21. Do not consume cannabis at an early age specifically before age 16. Many states and companies currently limit use to over 18 or 21. Frequent cannabis use can affect the developing brain. There are elevated risks of developing mental health problems, including depressive symptoms and psychotic symptoms with early-use. Early-use cannabis users are 4 times more likely to develop cannabis dependence. Studies also suggest poorer educational outcomes occur due to early initiation of cannabis.
2. Refrain from consuming products containing high amounts of THC. Cannabis properties and potency have drastically changed over the years as production techniques continue to evolve. Understanding the composition, potency and dosage are vital parts of cannabis use and safety.
High amounts of THC are associated with acute and chronic mental and behavioral outcomes. For example, frequent use of high-potency cannabis (“skunk”) has been associated with marked effects on memory, increased paranoia, and greater dependence severity in (especially younger) users .
The use of high-potency “wax dabs” has been linked to cannabis-induced psychosis among individuals with no psychiatric history. Cannabidiol (CBD) may help to reduce the adverse effects of THC, such as the intoxicating, sedating, and cardiovascular effects.
3. Do not use synthetic cannabis, such as Spice and K2. Synthetic cannabis is known to cause acute cognitive impairment, psychosis, anxiety, strokes, seizures, myocardial infraction, tachycardia, nausea, and death.
4. Consume cannabis orally rather than regularly smoking to reduce respiratory health risks. Smoking practices such as holding your breath or inhaling deeply can increase the intake of hazardous byproducts such carcinogens, tar, toxins and carbon monoxide. Vaporizers have been shown to reduce respiratory problems but there is no significant research on long term vaporizer use.
Because of the delayed response in the body for oral cannabis consumption, there is a risk of unintended high amounts of THC. Thus sometimes leading to poisoning and hospitalization. To prevent this, purchase from a trusted source, adhere to product instructions and follow dosing guidelines.
5. Daily cannabis use is associated with higher risks of adverse health and social outcomes. In frequent use is recommended to avoid dependence, unless used for medical purposes. For daily medical use potency and dosing are important factors to consider to limit negative outcomes.
6. Do not drive or operate machinery while impaired from cannabis. Driving increases the incidents of motor vehicle accidents. It is recommended to wait at least 6 hrs. before
operating a motor vehicle. Times may vary depending on user and potency.
7. Populations that should avoid cannabis use include, individuals with predisposition for, or a first-degree family history of, psychosis and substance use disorders, as well as pregnant women (primarily to avoid adverse effects on the fetus or newborn).
Discussion
Cannabis can be very beneficial when used appropriately. There is conclusive evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective in preventing and treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Moderate evidence shows improved symptoms of fibromyalgia, improved short term sleep disturbances associated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, reduction in symptoms of chronic pain and improved short term symptoms of adults with multiple sclerosis–related muscle spasms.
As you, your family members, and friends become more interested in cannabis use, please follow the cannabis recommendations and dosing guidelines for a safe and effective experience.
References
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