Risks and Side Effects of Medical Marijuana
Using Medical Weed Safely
While medical marijuana offers significant benefits, it’s not without risks. Understanding its potential side effects and precautions is key to using it safely. In the MediWeed Hub, we’re committed to providing a balanced view of medical weed so you can make informed choices with irie vibes. Let’s explore the risks and how to mitigate them.
Short-Term Side Effects
Medical marijuana can cause short-term effects like anxiety, paranoia, or panic, especially with high THC doses. Users may experience increased heart rate, bloodshot eyes, or dizziness, which can impair driving. Some report dry mouth, mood changes, or altered perception, such as heightened sensitivity to sound or a distorted sense of time. These effects typically fade within hours but can be uncomfortable, particularly for new users.
Long-Term Risks
Long-term use of marijuana, especially through inhalation, may impact lung health, though vaping reduces some risks (Lyphe Clinic). Chronic use can affect memory and cognitive function, particularly in adolescents, and may lead to dependency in about 9% of users (NIDA). It’s also not recommended for pregnant individuals due to potential developmental risks to the fetus.
Rare but Serious Risks
Though rare, serious risks include psychotic episodes with hallucinations or delusions from high THC doses, particularly in new users. Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, causing severe vomiting, can affect long-term heavy users. Vaping THC may lead to lung injuries, and smoking increases risks of stroke or heart disease. Marijuana use during pregnancy can harm a baby’s health, potentially causing developmental issues.
Factors Increasing Risk
Risks are higher for young users, as adolescent brains are still developing, potentially leading to cognitive deficits. High THC potency increases dependency and side effects like anxiety. Frequent use heightens tolerance and long-term risks like respiratory issues. Those with a genetic predisposition to psychosis, a history of substance abuse, or existing mental health conditions like depression face greater risks of adverse effects.
