Approximately 1 in 10 people who use marijuana will become addicted. When they start before age 18, the rate of addiction rises to 1 in 6.
MARIJUANA
Marijuana used by people under the age of 25 directly impacts brain development and increases the risk of ongoing problems with attention, learning, memory, and dealing with emotions.
Marijuana produced today is more potent than it has ever been. Studies have shown that if an adolescent uses cannabis before the age of 16 and for a prolonged period, it can lead to a number of significant health problems. Teen cannabis users are more likely to become addicted to cannabis than people who start using it when they are older.
It is crucial that all marijuana products are stored in a locked area, out of sight and reach of pets and children.
Is Marijuana the Same as Cannabis?
People often use the words “cannabis” and “marijuana” interchangeably, but they don’t mean exactly the same thing. The word “cannabis” refers to all products derived from the plant Cannabis sativa. The cannabis plant contains about 540 chemical substances. The word “marijuana” refers to parts of or products from the plant Cannabis sativa that contain substantial amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
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THC is the substance that’s primarily responsible for the effects of marijuana on a person’s mental state.
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Some cannabis plants contain very little THC. Under U.S. law, these plants are considered “industrial hemp” rather than marijuana.
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Main cannabinoids are THC and cannabidiol (CBD).
Check out this on-pager for the 1-2-3 differences between CBD, THC, and Hemp for this website for more in-depth information.
Marijuana Risks
According to SAMHSA, marijuana can have negative and long-term effects on:
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Brain health
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Mental health
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Athletic performance
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Driving
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Baby's health and development
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Daily life
Click here to learn more about the many risks, especially to children, young adults, and women who are pregnant or nursing.
Edibles
Edibles can be more potent than other kinds of marijuana. The effects of marijuana can take up to four hours to peak after eating or drinking it.
Poisoning in children is on the rise! It mostly happens with children 12 and younger, who accidentally ingest marijuana or products containing THC. Edible products are most commonly in the form of marijuana-infused cookies, brownies, or other candies. Cookies or other food products may be indistinguishable from 'regular' foods.
The Northern New England Poison Center reports a rise in the number of patients under six years old treated at Maine Medical Center for marijuana-related poisonings from 2013-2015. They also report more marijuana poisonings among all age groups across Maine from 2013-2017, with the biggest rise in children 0-5 years old. Common symptoms of marijuana poisoning are excessive sleepiness, dizziness, and trouble walking.
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