Marijuana:
Risks and Benefits
Cannabis is a category of flowering plants commonly known as marijuana or weed. Marijuana has been legalized in various states across the country, including Illinois, where adults 21+ may purchase at licensed dispensaries. Considering marijuana’s increased availability, it’s important for adult users to be aware about both its potential health risks and benefits, some of which will be summarized in this handout.
Marijuana 101: An Introduction to Cannabis
What is marijuana?
Marijuana comes from the cannabis plant. THC and CBD are two of its naturally occurring components.
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis and is what gets you "high”
CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high. It may help with pain, inflammation and sleep.
How is marijuana consumed?
Marijuana is usually smoked as a cigarette (called a joint), or in a pipe or bong. It can also be vaped or added to foods, drinks or edible products, such as gummies.
Is marijuana the right choice just because it’s legal?
Marijuana contains over 100 chemical substances known as cannabinoids. Some of these, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have mind altering effects and can be intoxicating. It can affect everyone differently, and is not recommended for minors.
What are some short-term effects?
- A sense of euphoria
- Increased taste, visual, and auditory senses
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
Health Risks
Do different presentations come with different risks?
Yes, different presentations of marijuana can have different health effects. For example, smoking marijuana has been connected with a higher risk of lung problems, such as irritation, infection, and lung cancer. Likewise, when cannabis products are ingested orally without caution, they can lead to severe physical symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
What happens when marijuana is consumed in excess?
Consuming marijuana in excess in any presentation or form can lead to extreme confusion and anxiety, panic, paranoia and increased blood pressure, among others. If you choose to consume, make sure to do it responsibly and keep it away from youth and pets.
Is marijuana used for medical purposes?
Yes, some certified health care providers may prescribe marijuana for medical purposes, including reducing pain and inflammation, anxiety, and to help manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, among others. Please consult with your doctor to determine what’s best for you.
Short-Term Health Risks
Feelings of anxiety, fear, distrust, or panic. These effects are more common when a person uses bigger quantities, the potency is higher, or the person is inexperienced.
When someone uses too much all at once, they may experience acute psychosis, including hallucinations (seeing, hearing, tasting or feeling things that are not there), delusions (beliefs that contradict reality), or a loss of the sense of self (questioning values or who they are).
Long-Term Health Risks
- Weaker decision making skills
- Changes in brain structure (May be permanent even after use has stopped)
- Mental health concerns, such as increased risk of anxiety and depression
- Long-term memory problems
- Higher risk of addiction for youth (12-21 years old
The amount of THC in today’s marijuana has four times the concentration compared to 25 years ago. Its much higher potency may lead to higher rates of dependency and addiction even for some adult users.
Potential Benefits of Marijuana
Some studies have shown potential health benefits from the cannabis plant (commonly known as marijuana). Although still debated in some places, medical cannabis is legal in many states, including Illinois, and prescribed by doctors for certain health issues. Remember to consult with your doctor about your particular case.
- Potential reduction of anxiety
- May help with relaxation and sleep
- Reduced pain
- Reduced seizures
- Reduced nausea and vomiting while in chemotherapy
- Reduced inflammation
- Management of multiple sclerosis symptoms
In Illinois, cannabis may also be prescribed by doctors to alleviate some of the conditions that would have traditionally been treated with opioids, as these could be highly addictive
Tips for Responsible Use
Understand THC vs. CBD
THC is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that produces the “high” feeling.
CBD is a compound found in cannabis and is a non-intoxicating, non-euphoric component.
Start low
Check THC content and avoid higher THC products, especially if it is your first time using.
Know your family history
People with a personal or family history of psychosis or substance use problems are advised to avoid cannabis.
Try other activities
Try activities like exercise, spending time in nature, or starting a new hobby to stay engaged. Meditation, prayer, or professional support can also help you manage your emotions.
Limit use
If you're 21 or older and using marijuana within the legal boundaries, consider how factors like family history, mental health conditions, substance use, and past trauma may influence its effects.
Purchase legally
When making a purchase, ensure it's done legally and securely through a licensed dispensary. Remember, a valid ID is required to complete the transaction.
Be mindful of your purchases
Ask questions and be aware of THC content, even in products presented as CBD. Also consult about quantities and potential side effects.
Wait to consume
Remember that marijuana use during adolescence can interfere with brain development, affecting functions like memory, learning, and decision-making, and may lead to higher risk of cannabis use disorder.
Everyone is different
Certain food may be good and taste great, but if you are allergic you might choose to avoid it. Likewise, not everything is good for everyone every time, including marijuana. Be mindful of your mind, body and particular circumstances.
It’s OK to step back
Depending on what is going on in someone’s life, a person might consider stepping back for a while from marijuana use to better take care of themselves or their loved ones.
Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana use or misuse, or want to get help, click below.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johnson & Wales University (JWU)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Health
- Chicago Health