Cannabis

PPL2O: Cannabis

What is Cannabis?

• Cannabis is derived from two main plant species:

  • Cannabis sativa

  • Cannabis indica

• Contains chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD.

• Unique classification:

  • Acts as a stimulant at low doses.

  • Functions as a depressant at high doses.

  • Can induce hallucinogenic effects depending on the individual.

The Rise of THC

• Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

  • Significant increase in THC potency from the late 1960s to 2017.

  • In the 1970s, cannabis contained approximately 15-20% THC, compared to around 1% previously.

How is Cannabis Used?

• Reasons for cannabis use include:

  • Mental effects: euphoria, intoxication, calming effects.

  • Medical, social, or religious uses.

• Methods of consumption:

  • Smoking

  • Drinking

  • Eating

  • Vaporizing

Cannabis Use in Canada

• Youth demographics:

  • Canadian youth (ages 15-24) have high cannabis usage rates, nearly double that of adults.

  • Statistics:

    • 44% of youth aged 16-19 reported use in the past year.

    • 51% of youth aged 20-24 reported use in the past year.

• Usage scenarios before or during:

  • School:

    • 53% never use

    • 27% rarely use

    • 12% weekly use

  • Work:

    • 64% never use

    • 15% rarely use

    • 8% weekly use

Possible Effects of Cannabis

• Short-term effects:

  • Positive/Pleasant:

    • Euphoria, relaxation, heightened sensory experiences.

  • Negative/Unpleasant:

    • Confusion, trouble concentrating, anxiety, paranoia, increased heart rate, and hallucinations.

• Possible long-term health effects (daily/weekly use over extended periods):

  • Increased risk of addiction.

  • Negative impacts on memory, concentration, and intelligence.

  • Respiratory issues such as bronchitis and chronic cough from smoking.

  • More severe effects for those who start using at a young age or use frequently.

Neuropsychiatric Side Effects

• Cognition:

  • THC can impair cognitive function and exacerbate conditions like anxiety and schizophrenia.

• Cardiovascular Effects:

  • Sympathomimetic effects can increase risks of hypertension and tachycardia.

• Infection Risk:

  • THC may reduce response to infections and increase susceptibility, particularly with smoking.

Effects on the Brain

• Prefrontal Cortex:

  • Responsible for planning, judgment, decision-making, and personality; one of the last brain areas to mature.

• Limbic System:

  • Involved in reward-seeking behavior and gratification; develops early.

• Striatum:

  • Critical for the brain's reward system and risk-taking; very active during adolescence.

Cannabis and the Law

• The Cannabis Act:

  • Governs the production, distribution, sale, and possession of cannabis across Canada.

  • Legal for adults 18 years and older; most provinces (e.g., Ontario) set legal age at 19.

• Usage regulations:

  • Varies by province/territory; e.g., consumption in enclosed public places is restricted.

Impairment and Driving Laws

• Cannabis effects on driving:

  • Impairs motor skills, reaction time, memory, and concentration; can lead to erratic driving behavior.

• Legal penalties for impaired driving vary by province but may result in criminal charges for operating a vehicle under influence.

Criminal Penalties Related to Cannabis

• Offences and penalties:

  • Possession over legal limits: tickets for minor amounts; up to 5 years in prison.

  • Illegal distribution or sale: tickets for small amounts; up to 14 years in prison.

  • Trafficking across borders: up to 14 years in prison.

  • Selling cannabis to minors or using a minor in cannabis-related offences.