What are the effects of cannabis?
Cannabis is known as a “soft drug”, meaning that it is less harmful than “hard drugs”, such as cocaine or heroin. Cannabis is less addictive than caffeine, and does not have any serious withdrawal effects compared to other drugs, including alcohol.
Short-term effects on the brain after using cannabis:
- Feeling of euphoria
- Sense of well-being
- Relaxation
- Heightened experience of senses
- Slower reaction time
- Increased appetite
- Trouble concentrating
- Impaired short-term memory
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
Short-term effects on the body after using cannabis:
- Raise in heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes from lower blood pressure, which in turn causes blood vessels and capillaries to dilate
The effects of cannabis vary enormously from one user to the next, depending on factors such as:
- Method of administration (inhalation, ingestion)
- Dose taken
- Concentration of THC and CBD in the cannabis
- User’s experience with using cannabis
- User’s physical and mental state
- Social context (with others at a party, alone at home)
- Alcohol, other recreational or prescription drugs, used in addition cannabis, which can amplify the effects
Because there are so many factors that impact the effects of cannabis from one person to the next, it is possible for one person to feel relaxed, while another is experiencing feelings of paranoia. There are many “positive” effects of using cannabis, however, there are also “negative” effects that resemble some of the symptoms of psychosis (anxiety, paranoia, delusional beliefs). These usually are fairly short-lasting and have no remaining problems after the drug has worn off.
Yet, many have taken an interest into studying the effects of cannabis and psychosis, specifically because there is a high correlation of those diagnosed with psychosis and increased substance abuse. For example, 24% of initial onset of psychotic symptoms are associated with high potency cannabis use. You can find more information on psychosis and the link between cannabis and psychosis here!
For many, the major health hazards of cannabis use are those related to smoking the drug – such as lung damage, rather than the effects of THC on the brain.
Medical application for cannabis
Multiple studies have demonstrated the therapeutic effects of cannabis! Cannabis can provide:
- Pain relief
- Anti-nausea
- Sleep aid
- Appetite stimulant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-anxiety
- Seizure reduction
These effects have sparked interest in researchers to validate the efficacy in treating/managing symptoms of various medical conditions with cannabis, such as:
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- Antidepressant
- PTSD
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s