OVER CONSUMPTION

How to use cannabis safely

Your reaction to cannabis may be different than other people, depending on:

• Which method you use
• How much Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) you consume
• Depends on the individual’s cannabinoid receptors
• Your previous experience with cannabis

THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis. It creates the high you feel. Using high amounts of THC can impair your judgment and coordination.

Be aware of how edibles affect you

The body metabolizes edibles differently than cannabis that you smoke or vape. When you eat or drink an edible, the THC travels to the stomach, then to the liver. The liver converts the THC to a stronger THC molecule before it travels to your bloodstream and brain. This can make the high seem more intense.

It can take up to 2 hours to start to feel the effects of edibles. This is much slower than smoking or vaping cannabis, which you may immediately feel.

If it’s your first time using an edible:

• Start with a small amount of THC
• Wait at least 2 hours before taking more.

*We have resources to help you talk to young people about cannabis use. Department of Cannabis Control