Short and Long-Term Side Effects of Marijuana Use

Marijuana can be addictive, especially when it’s used during adolescence. There’s also an increased risk of concurrent substance abuse or addiction to other substances, including nicotine, alcohol, or “harder” drugs like heroin. A concerning issue related to marijuana is the possibility of contaminated products, including laced weed.

When smoked, marijuana can irritate the respiratory tract, including the lungs and throat. Frequent use or long-term use increases the risk of complications like cough, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung illnesses.

Some research suggests that regular marijuana use during adolescence, which is when the brain is still developing, can lead to impaired impulse control, learning, and memory. The most significant differences occur when marijuana is used heavily before the age of 18.

There is still a risk of cognitive impairment and memory problems in people who use marijuana heavily after 18, however.

Some studies indicate a possible link between marijuana use and mental disorders like depression and anxiety, as well as psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, in people who have a genetic predisposition. In those who already have schizophrenia, marijuana use may worsen the symptoms.

Research suggests that the use of cannabis harms athletic performance by impairing timing, movement, and hand-eye coordination. This is an important consideration for adolescents or young adults relying on participating in school sports for scholarships or other opportunities.

Using marijuana while pregnant increases the risks of issues for the developing fetus, including issues with problem-solving, attention, and memory. Moderate amounts of THC can pass from breast milk to the nursing baby as well, possibly impacting brain development.

A few studies show a possible link between adolescent marijuana use and aggressive testicular cancers.

Marijuana can impair judgment and reduce reaction time, which can be dangerous behind the wheel of a vehicle, working with hazardous machinery, or in other potentially dangerous situations that can lead to an accident, injury, or death.

Marijuana has been used for thousands of years, but the research hasn’t caught up to the current use or range of different options on the market, including high-potency marijuana. Simply put, we’re not sure what unknown risks marijuana may have on the body and brain.[3]

CBT is a therapeutic intervention that’s used to treat marijuana use disorder, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. It’s one of the most effective means of treatment because it focuses on identifying unhelpful patterns of thoughts and behaviors and replacing them with desirable patterns.

Motivational interviewing (MI Therapy), also known as motivational enhancement therapy (MET), is a counseling technique that resolves uncertainties about making changes in life and developing sound solutions to address them. This process gives the person more agency in devising their solutions to personal challenges.