Cannabis
CannabisAlso known as: Marijuana, Weed, Pot, Grass, Hash, Ganja, Mary Jane, Dope
Medical Review & Editorial Standards
All content is written, edited, and medically reviewed by licensed professionals with expertise in addiction medicine and behavioral health.
Benjamin Zohar
NCACIP
Nationally Certified Advanced Clinical Intervention Professional and recovery advocate in long-term recovery, specializing in intervention services and treatment coordination.
Ezra Zohar, M.S.Ed.
Educational Specialist
Educational Specialist with M.S. in Secondary Education, reviewing educational content focused on addiction awareness and recovery.
Brandon McNally
RN
Registered Nurse with specialized training in addiction medicine and behavioral health nursing.
Last Updated
November 2025
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Call Helpline: (914) 594-5851What is Cannabis?
Cannabis contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) among other compounds. It can be smoked, vaporized, or consumed in edibles. Cannabis affects the endocannabinoid system in the brain.
Effects
Relaxation, altered perception of time, increased appetite, euphoria, heightened sensory perception, impaired memory and concentration, anxiety or paranoia (in some users)
Risks & Dangers
Impaired short-term memory, impaired motor coordination, altered judgment, respiratory issues (if smoked), increased heart rate, anxiety, paranoia, in rare cases psychosis, potential for psychological dependence
Withdrawal Symptoms
Mild irritability, sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, restlessness, mild anxiety
Addiction Potential
Low to Moderate - Physical dependence is rare. Psychological dependence can develop with heavy regular use.
Duration
Effects typically last 2-4 hours when smoked, 4-8 hours when consumed in edibles
Legal Status
Legal status varies by jurisdiction. Schedule I federally in the US, but legal in many states. Illegal in many countries.
Alcohol Interaction Warning
Mixing Cannabis with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Combining substances increases the risk of:
- • Respiratory depression and overdose
- • Unpredictable effects and loss of consciousness
- • Increased toxicity to liver and other organs
- • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviors
Learn more about alcohol use disorder and polysubstance use.
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Published: July 15, 2024 • Last Updated: November 25, 2025
Medically reviewed drug information for educational purposes
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