health lab a perspective on marijuana Calculating safe dosages for users, becomes
even more complicated with the proliferation of marijuana edibles and vaporizers, as well as concentrated forms of THC such as shatter, wax, resin or dabs. Because such products are not well- regulated, the potential for consuming an unknown quantity of THC is high. Even retail cannabis products, from growers and dispensaries, have been found to have high variability of dosage potency both between units and within units. For instance, a person who consumes part of an edible may have a portion with incredibly high amounts of THC, while the other portion may have a significantly lower amount. Additional complications can arise from the use of synthetic cannabinoids, such as K2 and Spice. These commercially-available products contain a synthetic analog of THC dissolved in solvent and applied to inert plant material. These products are generally less “liked” than marijuana, but may be favored to avoid drug testing. These chemicals tend to have greater potency than THC, longer half-lives and greater risk for unpredictable effects. Notably, an outbreak of synthetic cannabis use in New York during the sum- mer of 2016, was reported as a “zombie outbreak” due to the severity of effects on users. While increased marijuana potency naturally increases problems, the danger is higher for those who have vulnerabilities. For example, having any history of addiction, creates an increased risk for becoming dependent. Those with histories
of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia, also place themselves at increased risk for complications by using THC or cannabis products. Studies have established that one in 10 adults who try marijuana, become addicted to it. Among those who are ages 13 to 20, the number rises to one in seven. In fairness, it is reasonable to say some steps are
being taken to address the public health problems that have emerged from increased marijuana potency. Researchers are looking more closely at the problem of rising THC levels and health professionals are becoming increasingly better trained to treat and prevent marijuana-related problems. Substance use treatment centers are seeing a rise in admissions for marijuana misuse, proving once again how antiquated the notion is that “It’s just pot.” As a new era of marijuana use emerges, we will likely see increasing problems that will affect
communities, families and individuals alike. Ad- dressing emerging problems that continue to arise from the increasing legalization of cannabis and increased potency, will require a strong strategy and the collective resources of the medical, academic, business and legislative communities. For people who might be struggling with mari-
juana addiction, getting help now is crucial. It is like treating other chronic illnesses such as diabetes. The new Betty Ford Center San Diego facility in Del Mar Heights, offers free phone assessments for those concerned about their own substance use or that of a loved one. The Center offers a wide array of evidence-based treatment programs as part of a whole-person approach to treating all addictions, including cannabis use disorder.
For more information, call 866.261.3734, 24 hours a day or go
tohazeldenbettyford.org/sandiego .
Consumers are learning that today’s marijuana
differs markedly from the marijuana of a generation ago. At the same time, many are discovering they
are unprepared for the associated harms, which can include addiction, motor vehicle accidents, develop- ment of psychosis, lower academic performance and exacerbation of psychological issues.”
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RAGE monthly | AUGUST 2017
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