Cannabis

Cannabis is a plant that people use for its effects on the mind and body. It can make people feel relaxed, happy, or “high.” Cannabis contains natural compounds, with the most common ones being THC (which causes the high) and CBD (which doesn’t make you high but may have calming effects). It's legal in Canada but regulated by laws that control how it can be used and sold. People often call it marijuana, weed, or pot.

What are the different forms of cannabis?

Cannabis comes in different forms that people use in various ways. You might see:

●       Dried flower for smoking or vaping

●       Edibles like gummies, chocolates, or baked goods

●       Oils or tinctures taken by mouth or added to food

●       Topicals like creams or lotions applied to the skin

How do we use cannabis safely?

The only safe way to avoid harm from cannabis is to not use it. If you do choose to use cannabis, you can lower your risk by following Canada's Lower Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines, and you can lower your risk of psychosis by following the Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines for Psychosis (https://labo-jutras-aswad.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/4_Public-Brochure-231212-LRCUG-PSYCH-EN-web.pdf)If you’re new to cannabis, starting with a product low in THC is generally safer to help avoid unwanted effects.

What should you know about edible cannabis?

Edible cannabis products, like candies or chocolate, may look like regular foods, but they affect you differently than smoking or vaping cannabis. When you eat cannabis, it takes longer to feel the effects, and these effects can be stronger and last longer.

To reduce the chance of unwanted effects with edibles, always read the product labels carefully. Buy cannabis only from licensed retailers so you know exactly what’s in the product.

Start low and go slow. Start with a low THC level, especially if you're new to edibles; look for products with no more than 2.5 mg of THC. Be sure to wait up to two hours for the effects to kick in, as edibles can take time to work. Keep all edibles out of reach of children and pets and avoid mixing them with alcohol or other drugs.

For more tips, check the 7 Things You Need to Know About Edible Cannabis from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.

What are the health effects of cannabis?

The amount of THC in a product can affect how strong its effects are. THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It’s the part of the plant that makes people feel "high" or alters their mood, thinking, and perception. Products with THC can lead to stronger and longer-lasting effects, which may also increase the risk of side effects like anxiety, paranoia, or nausea. For more information on the health effects of cannabis, you can review the Government of Canada’s guide and download Health Canada’s information

Can cannabis affect driving?

Cannabis can slow your reaction time, affect your concentration, and increase your risk of accidents. Driving while high is illegal and increases your chance of a crash. Learn about the Myths and Facts of Impaired Driving from the Ministry of Transportation to stay informed.

Is cannabis safe during pregnancy?

Using cannabis during pregnancy, or breastfeeding can can be harmful to a baby and affect their development and health. To understand the risks, check out these resources:

●       Thinking about using Cannabis During Pregnancy? – Public Health Agency of Canada

●       Learn why Cannabis and Pregnancy Don’t Mix – Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada

●       Understand the risks of Cannabis on Fertility, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Parenting – Best Start

Is cannabis safe when parenting?

Using cannabis when in the care of children can limit a parent’s ability to pay attention, make decisions and react in emergency situations.  Learn more about the risks in Thinking about using Cannabis while Parenting? – Public Health Agency of Canada.

Youth and cannabis: What should you know?

Cannabis impacts developing brains, so youth under 25 are at higher risk for its harmful effects. To learn more, watch this video on the effects of cannabis on teenage brains and explore the Effects of Cannabis Use During Adolescence from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.

If you’re a parent, talk openly with your kids about cannabis. For more guidance:

• Check the Communication Guide for Parents from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction

• Learn what Parents/Guardians Need to Know from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

How can you prevent cannabis poisoning in children?

If you have cannabis in your home, keep it in child-resistant packaging and store it locked away, out of sight. Be mindful of any leftover or used cannabis products, as they can still be harmful.

Signs of cannabis poisoning in children include:

• Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake

• Loss of muscle tone or poor coordination

• Dilated (large) pupils

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

If you think a child has consumed cannabis, call the Ontario Poison Centre at 1-800-268-9017 or seek medical help immediately.

What are the cannabis laws in Canada?

Cannabis is legal in Canada under the Cannabis Act, but there are still restrictions on where and how you can use it. Check out the Federal Cannabis Laws and make sure you understand Ontario’s Cannabis Laws to use cannabis responsibly.