Prevention First

Key Facts about using marijuana

Portion Size

10
mg

Although a single dose of cannabis is considered 10 mg of THC, start smaller to prevent getting too high.

Health Effects

Cannabis can impair your reaction time, coordination, concentration, and ability to drive.

Underage Risks

Regular use of marijuana in your teens and early 20s can physically alter your brain and cause permanent harm.

Tips and Health Facts for Adults 21+

Everyone reacts differently to cannabis. Certain factors like method, previous experience, and the amount can affect your overall experience. If you’re going to use cannabis you should be aware of these 7 things.

Start with small doses of THC
Many plants now contain higher amounts of THC, the active ingredient in cannabis that affects your brain and behavior. Some methods of use, like dabbing, vaping, and eating edibles, can contain higher doses. Read the labels carefully to understand the dosage in each product. Even though 10 mg is considered a single dose, it’s better to test with smaller amounts first.
Go slow with edibles
It takes the average person 30 minutes to feel anything at all and up to 2 hours to feel the full effects of the dose. It’s important to pace yourself and wait enough time before taking more. Eating too many edibles too fast may cause you to get too high, and even put you at risk of marijuana poisoning.
Understand the effects of THC
Cannabis directly impacts the brain, specifically the parts responsible for memory, learning, attention, decision making, coordination, emotions, and reaction time. Marijuana intoxication—having high concentrations of THC in your system—can make you feel relaxed, sleepy, and euphoric, but it can also impair your judgment and motor skills.
Don’t drive under the influence
Driving a vehicle or operating a watercraft after using cannabis is illegal. While you may think you’re more alert, you’re not. In fact, it slows your reaction time and can cause you to lane weave, which can lead to accidents.
Know what you are vaping
Scientists don’t know all the health consequences of using vaping products, but the vapor may also contain ammonia, hydrocyanic acid, nitrosamines, and components of tar. Additionally, the processes of heating vape liquid can expose you to cancer-causing chemicals (like formaldehyde), and toxic metals that can cause brain damage (like lead).
Be aware of the health risks
Smoke from cannabis contains many of the same toxins and chemicals found in tobacco smoke in the same quantities, and inhaling it can increase your risk of developing lung problems.
Store cannabis in a secure location
Cannabis can put children and pets at risk for cannabis toxicity and could result in needing medical attention. Protect others from accidentally consuming marijuana by keeping products in child-resistant packaging and in a locked place they can’t get into or find.

Get More Facts

Should You Take A Break?

There are six common signs that you might want to rethink cannabis use. Ask yourself:

If You've Been Spending:

Extra money on cannabis

More time high than usual

Lots of time thinking about cutting back

If You're Getting High Instead of:

Focusing on important things

Being clear-headed at work or school

Particpating in favorite activities

Looking For Ways To Cut Back

Here are six helpful ideas to consider if you want to reduce cannabis use. Try the ones that feel right for you.

Identify Your Why

Make a list of reasons why you want to cut back. Are you worried about your health? Is it negatively affecting relationships? Do you want to find different ways to de-stress?

Pick A Specific Amount

Set clear goals for the amount you want to use (for example, only two puffs), don’t just “smoke less.” Also, pick the day you’ll start cutting back and note it on the calendar.

Find the Right Time

Think about how much time you spend high and ask yourself if you want to change it up (for example, use only on weekends or only after dinner).

Take One Step At A Time

If it seems like a lot to reduce use all at once, try cutting out one day a week, and when that becomes comfortable, add more days until you’re using only when you want.

Seek Out Alternatives

If you typically use cannabis to relax, think of other activities that can help you de-stress (for example, taking a walk, meditating, exercising, or connecting with friends).

Explore Digital Support

Try downloading an app that tracks your use like: Grounded or Marijuana Calendar. Or consider joining a cessation program or consulting with a healthcare professional.

Health Risks for Young Adults and Teens

Your brain doesn’t fully develop until your mid-20s. Using before then can have a lasting impact on your health and future. See why using at a young age can be problematic below.

Brain Development

Using at a young age can cause physical changes in the brain that can permanently harm your memory, learning, and attention.

Lung Problems

Inhaling the toxins and chemicals found in marijuana smoke, like ammonia and components of tar, can increase your risk of developing lung problems.

Mental Health

Those who use cannabis may be more likely to develop anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide.

Your Record

If you are caught under the age of 21 with any amount, you and the person who supplied the weed could face legal consequences.