Medical marijuana serves to treat or relieve the symptoms of certain illnesses. The two essential therapeutic substances of the plant, tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol possess distinct biological implications. Although the “high” is brought about by tetrahydrocannabinol, which also has medicinal use for certain ailments, Cannabidiol has become famous for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory capabilities without any euphoric repercussions.

Due to the legalization of marijuana and its growing popularity many parents worry about its prospective impact on kids and teenagers who have major or ongoing illnesses. Legalization, however, fails to ensure that children will have quicker access to marijuana-based medications.

For instance, even in regions where marijuana is legal, administering it to minors typically demands extra rules and certain medical qualifications. In many cases, legalization may even create further regulatory obstacles that make it challenging for kids to get the medical cannabis treatment options they require. It is essential for parents thinking about medical marijuana as a therapy option for their child’s health to become familiar with these subtleties and medical marijuana effects on teens.

Additionally, the probability of accidental encounters rises with the growing use of medical marijuana products. If a family considers permitting anyone in the house to use medical marijuana, they should pick items with non-see-through and child-resistant packaging.

Marijuana products should be put up, out of children’s reach, and generally in a locked cabinet if they are kept in a home. In particular with edibles and infused items, inquisitive kids may confuse them for kid-friendly candies or meals. There is a serious risk of injury from this.

What are Medical Marijuana Effects on Teens?

Although marijuana has historically been associated with adolescence, the topic of whether the risks for teenagers have altered as more states legalize its recreational use for adults and as the potency of cannabis products rises is raised.

According to a 2022 study from Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health, cannabis consumption is increasing in the US for people of all ages, particularly those who smoke cigarettes and in states where it is legal for recreational use. We still don’t have all the information, though, regarding how cannabis especially impacts teens’ health.

For instance, although some studies indicate a connection between heavy cannabis use and problems with focus or memory in teenagers, more thorough research is still required to completely comprehend these possible impacts.

What Do Experts Say about Teenagers and Cannabis Consumption?

Before talking about cannabis with kids, adults should address their own prejudices. Kids will eventually come into contact with cannabis. Their pals will give it a try. Avoiding these discussions might really cause more harm than good, so it’s crucial to be honest and at ease when having them.

Experts stress about how critical it is to recognize taking risks as a normal aspect of maturing. In the process, we learn what’s safe and what’s not by taking risks. We must understand that as teens grow, parents, caregivers, clinicians, and other supportive adults are essential in helping them find safer ways to explore and learn.

Parents Guide to Medical Marijuana – How to Talk about It with Teens?

When talking about cannabis with teenagers, it’s crucial to communicate well. According to experts, as a parent, guardian, or other supporting adult, you should place a high value on having candid discussions that involve speaking, posing queries, carefully listening, and giving truthful responses.

Admit when a question comes up and you don’t know the answer. Make use of the chance to investigate the solution jointly, ideally seeking advice from trustworthy people like a physician. In addition to fostering trust, this method teaches teenagers how to recognize reliable information sources.

Teens should be encouraged to identify risky cannabis usage scenarios, particularly if they are with their peers. Teens may feel less awkward about discussing if they are experimenting with cannabis or have had a bad experience if you are friendly and transparent with them. Adults are better able to guide teenagers when they appreciate being honest.

Motives for Marijuana Use in Adolescents

Teens may use marijuana for a variety of reasons, such as curiosity, and social acceptance, or as a coping mechanism for stress, worry, or sadness. Understanding their reasons is advised by experts. By looking into these causes, adults can determine whether their usage is alarming and provide resources or support if it is the result of underlying problems, such as sadness or anxiety, rather than sporadic experimenting.

Legal Consequences to Talk About

The legal aspects of cannabis use should also be discussed. Learn about the cannabis laws in your state, as the punishments might differ greatly. Talk openly about these legal ramifications since authorities may scrutinize or punish teens from marginalized backgrounds more severely.

Teens who are aware of the rules might avoid possible legal problems and make safer choices. By encouraging an honest informed conversation and helping the children in your life make cannabis-related decisions that promote their security and health, you may better inspire and encourage them.

How common is Marijuana Use in Adolescents?

According to factual data, about 37% of American high school students reported using or trying marijuana at least once in 2019, with 22% claiming to have done so within the preceding 30 days.

Moreover, in 2020 and 2021, usage drastically decreased, and the lower rates continued into 2022. During 2022, around 30.7% of 12th graders, 19.5% of 10th graders, and 8.3% of eighth graders reported smoking cannabis at least once.

Medical Marijuana and Teenagers Using It – Why is it Bad?

This critical developmental stage, which lasts until roughly age 25, is highlighted by rapid growth in the areas of the teen brain that facilitate thinking and problem-solving. Abuse of drugs and alcohol may cause disruption with these essential processes and, in particular situations, lead to concerns including paranoia and poor cognitive abilities. THC, the key element of marijuana that provides users a “high,” is often far stronger today than it was in earlier days, causing worries over possible impacts on the brain’s growth and development.

It’s questionable whether marijuana’s impacts on adolescent brain development will endure over time, and its long-term ramifications are still mostly unknown. This lack of certainty raises the risk because definitive analysis is still absent.

Although there is conflicting research, parents often wonder if marijuana usage may affect a teen’s IQ. It is hard to isolate marijuana’s role in IQ from other factors, such as drug use, even though tests on both humans and animals reveal that marijuana use may have a direct effect on cognitive function.

According to certain research, starting regular marijuana use in adolescents is associated with lower IQs and a higher chance of developing a substance use disorder as an adult. Other research, though, hasn’t discovered a direct link. Experts advise parents to be aware of the possible hazards and to keep updated as research advances in light of these conflicting results.

Things Parents Must Know

The American Academy of Pediatrics opposes the use of medical marijuana in children and adolescents from birth to age 21 due to the hazards involved with the drug, which is neither regulated nor approved by the FDA.

The American Academy of Pediatrics acknowledges that children with life-limiting or extremely debilitating diseases for whom present medications are insufficient may currently have access to marijuana as a cannabinoid administration alternative.

Experts Say On Marijuana Causing Overdose and Toxicity

Experts stress that a true “marijuana overdose” does not exist, even though an overdose usually entails consuming enough of a chemical to result in life-threatening symptoms or death. No teen deaths from marijuana use alone have been documented. However, especially when coupled with other narcotics, marijuana can be poisonous and have negative health effects.

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), a syndrome that experts see in frequent cannabis users admitted to hospitals, is one instance of marijuana toxicity. In addition to causing acute, persistent vomiting, CHS can induce potentially fatal dehydration if left untreated.

Teens who mix marijuana with other substances, like tobacco; a trend noted in places such as New York City and Philadelphia may face additional health risks. For instance, if a teen develops CHS, they may also experience nicotine withdrawal, adding further complications.

Experts caution that while marijuana alone may not be fatal, the risks increase when it’s combined with other substances or used in high doses over time. This makes it important to educate teens on potential health impacts and safe practices.

Does Use of Cannabis May Cause Schizophrenia?

The complex question of whether cannabis use may result in schizophrenia has gotten a lot of media attention. Cannabis use and the beginning of schizophrenia are not, however, decisively connected by present research. According to experts, schizophrenia is a complex disorder, which means that a variety of factors, mainly genetics, influence how it develops.

A significant change in the chemical makeup of the brain, whether caused by tension, THC exposure, or other factors, maybe a possible element of contracting schizophrenia in people who have a familial link to the disorder. For instance, even in the absence of cannabis use, a teen with a family history of schizophrenia, such as an adult brother or sister who has been afflicted with the disorder, has a one in ten chance of contracting schizophrenia.

Although it is uncommon that cannabis by itself might trigger schizophrenia, young people who have a genetic background should exercise extra caution because THC may make them more open to the symptoms of the disorder. This emphasizes how essential it is to know one’s family medical history in order to make sensible choices.

Difference Between THC and CBD

There are numerous varieties of marijuana, and the majority contain THC and CBD in different proportions. While CBD is linked to stronger anxiety-reducing benefits, THC is typically linked to more euphoric effects.

Cannabis contained more CBD than THC decades ago. Between 1995 and 2015, THC content rose 212% due to genetic alteration, which reversed the effects and potency. And the amount of THC keeps increasing.

Evaluation of Cannabis Products’ Quality

Legally grown, produced, and marketed cannabis products have undergone quality control and strength testing by outside parties. Untested products might include additional chemicals. Only four dispensaries are now permitted to sell cannabis products in New York City.

According to an expert, “Even though marijuana has been legalized, minors cannot access these dispensaries because they are underage, and the prices can be prohibitive.” Teens are more likely to get marijuana from unofficial sources, especially in underserved and overrepresented populations within the criminal justice system.

What is THC?

The ingredient in marijuana called THC is what makes users feel “high,” euphoric, and more hungry. Using marijuana between the ages of 12 and 23 is especially dangerous for children and young people because of significant changes in brain development throughout this time. A natural cannabinoid that aids in brain connection formation is already produced by our body.

In essence, the brain changes during adolescence from a simple computer to a highly functional one. When exogenous THC is added, the system becomes dysfunctional due to abnormal and faulty nerve connections, which can result in memory problems, a potentially permanent drop in IQ, and an increased chance of lifetime substance addiction.

What is CBD?

It’s vital to understand that CBD and marijuana are not one or the same thing. In fact, it is an active ingredient that is present in the cannabis plant and does not result in a “high”. The active substance of EpidiolexTM, a drug that was researched in detail and granted by the FDA to treat seizures in patients with chronic forms of epilepsy, such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, is CBD. Although other products claim to include CBD, EpidiolexTM is not recognized as medical marijuana and, like other certified pharmaceuticals, is subject to strict FDA regulations.

If someone buys CBD that is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is no guarantee that it is purified. In states where marijuana is legal, month-to-month changes have been observed in CBD preparations. While the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program does require laboratory testing of products, these products are still not FDA-approved. The testing performed may not be done by a laboratory that can accurately determine the content of the products being sold. It may be dangerous to give a child or patient a product unless it has been properly studied and is consistent every time.