The Effects of Youth Cannabis Use on the Developing Brain – Myth Busting
Panel discussion about the myths youth hold about marijuana.
Cannabis is the second most commonly used substance in Canada, after alcohol. On October 17, 2018, Canada became the second country in the world to legalize and regulate the sale and use of cannabis and cannabis products. Understanding the impacts of cannabis is essential to minimize the risks and harms and to maximize the benefits of its use. For that reason, CCSA conducts research, brings together knowledge and provides targeted materials to support evidence-based decisions and actions for cannabis policy and practice.
Cannabis is a plant, known for its psychoactive properties. A variety of cannabis products — herbal material, cannabis oil, concentrated extracts, edibles, tinctures and creams — are produced and used for their physical and cognitive effects. People consume these products for medical and non-medical purposes. People usually smoke cannabis, but they can also consume it in other ways such as vaporization (“vaping”) and in edibles.
Cannabis flowers secrete over 100 different chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. When consumed, these compounds bind to cell receptors and change the way these cells communicate with one another. Two of the best known cannabinoids are:
Explains how cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect a developing fetus and infant. Key points include: the effects of cannabis can be passed onto the fetus through the placenta or onto the baby through breastmilk, exposure to cannabis can impact the baby’s mental and physical de…
Read additional drug summaries on substances such as alcohol, prescription drugs, methamphetamine and cocaine.