Cannabis

Cannabis can alter perception, mood, memory, attention and coordination, with effects that vary widely according to THC strength, product, route and individual vulnerability. Repeated use can also lead to dependence and addiction in some people.

Cannabis is not one uniform substance. Products can contain very different amounts of THC, CBD and other cannabinoids, and the way cannabis is taken can change how quickly its effects appear and how long they last.

THC is the main cannabinoid responsible for cannabis intoxication. It can alter perception, attention, short-term memory, coordination and reaction time. CBD does not produce the same intoxicating effect, but describing CBD as simply harmless or therapeutic would also be misleading.

Smoking or vaping cannabis can produce effects within minutes, while edible products take longer to act and can last much longer. That delay can make it harder to judge how much effect is still developing.

Cannabis can also cause anxiety, panic or paranoia, and some people experience psychotic symptoms. Risk is not the same for everyone and appears to be influenced by factors including age, frequency of use, THC strength and personal vulnerability.

Synthetic cannabinoids such as K2 or Spice need to be understood separately. They are manufactured chemicals rather than ordinary cannabis and can produce much stronger, less predictable and sometimes life-threatening effects.

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