Cannabis, Marijuana, THC
Cannabis (Marijuana, THC)
What are we talking about?
Cannabis has many names. It can also be called marijuana, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), pot, or weed. THC is the main active chemical in cannabis that causes the “high” feeling.
Today’s cannabis contains higher amounts of THC compared to 25 years ago. It is important to understand cannabis products and their potential health and safety risks.
Cannabis products can come in many forms:
- Dried plant (flower or bud) that can be smoked
- Extracts, oils, or wax that can be vaped, ingested, or smoked
- Edibles such as gummies, chocolates, and drinks
What does it look like?
Signs and symptoms of cannabis poisoning may include anxiety, sleepiness, balance issues, panic, fast heart rate, headache, nausea, or vomiting.
In small children, symptoms may be especially dangerous and include slowed breathing, sleepiness, seizures, and coma.
How you use cannabis can affect your body differently
- Inhaled: Effects can be felt within seconds to minutes and may last up to 6 hours, with residual effects lasting up to 24 hours.
- Ingested: Effects may take 30 minutes to 2 hours to begin and can last up to 12 hours, with residual effects lasting up to 24 hours.
What about using cannabis while pregnant or breastfeeding?
- No amount of cannabis has been proven safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Can cannabis affect a child’s brain development?
Brain development continues until around age 25. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that young people not use cannabis. Cannabis use in youth can cause:
- Difficulty thinking and problem-solving
- Problems with memory and learning
- Poor coordination and slower reaction time
- Difficulty focusing and maintaining attention
What is safe storage?
- Keep cannabis up and out of sight and locked away from children.
- Store cannabis edibles away from regular food.
- Keep products in their original, labeled packaging.
What are look-alikes?
- Edible cannabis products may look like candy, gummies, cookies, or brownies and can be attractive to children.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical derived from cannabis and hemp plants. It does not cause a “high” like THC. Side effects may include drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting.
What is hemp?
Hemp plants are cannabis plants grown to contain higher levels of CBD and very low THC (less than 0.3%).
What is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is similar to THC but less potent. It is often derived from hemp and used in products such as edibles and vaping liquids. High amounts can still cause harmful effects.
What should you do if someone is feeling unwell after using cannabis?
If someone has taken too much or reacts badly to cannabis, call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
If someone is not breathing, has collapsed, or is having a seizure, call 911.
What should you do if a child eats a cannabis edible?
If a child eats a cannabis product, call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
If the child is not breathing, has collapsed, or is having a seizure, call 911.
Printable Resources
Download a printable PDF version of this information: