About 3 in 10 people who use cannabis develop a cannabis use disorder. The risk is higher for those who start using as teens and use cannabis more frequently.
Cannabis use has a wide range of health effects on the brain and body, including poisoning that can occur with eating or drinking cannabis products. It’s important for consumers to know the health effects of cannabis before using it, as there are risks with any method of use.
The most common effects reported are:
- Effects on Breathing Cannabis smoke irritates the lungs, leading to similar respiratory issues as tobacco smoking. These include persistent cough, increased phlegm production, higher susceptibility to lung illnesses, and greater risk of infections.
- Effects on Mental Health Cannabis use is linked to social anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia, but more research is needed to understand these connections fully.
- Effects on The Heart Cannabis raises the heart rate soon after smoking. This effect may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in older adults and those with heart issues.
- Effects on The Brain Cannabis affects the brain by causing a “high” and changing senses, mood, movement, memory, thinking, and problem-solving. High doses or regular use can lead to hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis. It can harm brain development, especially in babies, children, and teenagers, whose brains develop until around age 25. Using cannabis during pregnancy may cause attention, memory, problem-solving, and behavior issues in children. Using cannabis before age 18 can have long-lasting effects on brain functions, leading to academic struggles and memory problems.
- Effects on Social Life Cannabis can cause sedation, disorientation, impaired judgment, lack of concentration, and slowed motor skills, leading to delayed decision-making, impaired learning, and memory issues. It can also distort perception and cause anxiety and paranoia. ese effects can negatively impact work, school, social life, and personal relationships.
- Cancer Smoking cannabis delivers THC and other cannabinoids into the body, but it also exposes users to harmful substances like toxins and carcinogens, similar to those found in tobacco smoke. While some cannabinoids may help alleviate certain side effects, studies have not shown that cannabis or specific cannabinoids can cure cancer.
- Cannabis Poisoning Edibles, food and drink infused with cannabis, pose higher poisoning risks compared to smoking. Their effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, potentially leading to accidental overconsumption and serious health issues, and effects may last longer than expected. Some edibles resemble popular snacks or candy, attracting children and increasing the risk of accidental ingestion and severe symptoms needing emergency medical care.
- Cannabis Use Disorder (Addiction) About 3 in 10 cannabis users have cannabis use disorder, with roughly a 10% chance of addiction. Starting cannabis use in youth or using it frequently increases this risk. Signs include:
- Using more cannabis than intended and spending a lot of time on it
- Failing to quit despite trying
- Using despite problems at home, school, or work
- Continued use despite social or relationship issues
- Giving up important activities for cannabis
- Using in risky situations like driving
- Continued use despite physical or psychological issues
- Craving cannabis and needing more for the same effect.
For help, see cannabis resources.