Safety
Cannabis
Consumer Use and Safety
Information on cannabis use, THC concentration and potency, and consumption information by product type. Deciding What and How Much Several factors can influence your experience with cannabis. For
Safety
Cannabis
Understanding THC Concentration and Potency
When people talk about the potency of cannabis, they are usually referring to the concentration of THC in a product. In Washington’s cannabis market, THC concentration must be listed on the label of a product in milligrams of THC or as a THC percentage. Understanding concentration and potency is
Safety
Cannabis
Deciding What and How Much
Several factors can influence your experience with cannabis. For example, some people may experience a pleasant euphoria with cannabis, while others may find it increases their anxiety. The effects depend on the type and dose of the product, the person, and the environment or circumstances of use
Safety
Cannabis
Cannabis and Other Substances
Alcohol Alcohol and cannabis are two of the most commonly used drugs in the US, so it isn’t surprising that some people use them at the same time. However, using alcohol and cannabis together is not recommended because of the way they interact, significantly increasing the risk of adverse health
Safety
Cannabis
Safe Storage and Proper Disposal
If you keep cannabis and cannabis products in your home, take precautionary measures to store them safely, locked and out of reach of young people and pets. It is not enough to put products high on a shelf or in a box. Young people are curious and resourceful, so it is important to store all age
Cannabis
Safety
What is the "Right" Amount of Cannabis for Me?
The “right” amount is different for everybody. Some people, choose not to use cannabis at all. Others base their use on factors like potency, tolerance, and timing. The “right” amount is different for each person. Consider the following: Start low with the amount of cannabis consumed, and go slow
Cannabis
Health
Safety
A Caution About Concentrates
Research shows that the more THC a person consumes, the higher the health risks. In the short term, frequent use of products with high THC concentration increases the risk of experiencing anxiety, paranoia, and panic. Regular use of these products increases the risk of developing cannabis use
Cannabis
Safety
Factors to Consider
If you choose to consume cannabis, here are some factors that may affect your experience: Cannabinoid and terpene profiles Each cannabis cultivar (commonly called strains) has a different combination of cannabinoids and terpenes. This means each strain may have a different effect. It is also
Cannabis
Safety
Onset and Duration
When using cannabis, it is important to know the THC concentration of different products, how quickly they can take effect, and how long the effects last. The chart below provides guidelines. Consumption Method Types of Cannabis Products Onset of Effects Duration of Effects Inhalation Pre-Rolls
Safety
Cannabis
Reducing Risks
Like other drugs, cannabis use has the potential for psychological and physical harm. While most cannabis users do not experience severe problems from use, there is no absolute safe level of cannabis use. It affects individuals differently based on each person’s characteristics, how it is used, and
Safety
Cannabis
Accidental Use (Including Pets) and Overconsumption
Because cannabis products can look like non-cannabis edible products, accidental consumption is a risk, especially for young people and pets. This can result in cannabis toxicity or the need for emergency medical attention. If this happens or if someone has a bad reaction to cannabis, call 911 if it
Safety
Cannabis
Sources
The Guide to Safer Cannabis Consumption. New York State Office of Cannabis Management. LearnAboutCannabisWA.org, University of Washington Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute (ADAI) Cannabis Concentration and Health Risks. A report for the Washington State Prevention Research Committee (PRSC)