With recreational cannabis sales launching in Ohio last month, cannabis professionals and behavioral health experts both have reported that the drug can have serious health risks, including addiction, cognitive problems, and psychosis in some individuals. While some argue that cannabis is not addictive in the same way as drugs like cocaine or nicotine, others point to evidence showing that a significant portion of regular users can develop a dependence on the substance.
Cannabis, also known as weed, does not contain nicotine. However, some people who smoke cannabis may use it with tobacco, which does contain nicotine. This combination can increase the risk of addiction and other health problems associated with smoking.
New York's pot predicament 'seem[s] worse' because 'marijuana is addictive,' Lehman argues. 'Combining addiction with the profit motive creates a dangerous situation, especially when it comes to regulating the industry and protecting public health.' The debate over cannabis addiction continues to rage on as more states legalize the drug for recreational and medicinal use.
By analyzing more than one million people's genomes, researchers have identified stretches of DNA that could be linked to cannabis addiction. This groundbreaking research sheds light on the genetic factors that may contribute to an individual's susceptibility to developing a dependence on cannabis.
Think of some addictive drugs. Cocaine may come to mind, along with maybe methamphetamine, alcohol, or nicotine. But if I had to guess, marijuana might not be at the top of your list. However, experts say nearly a third of regular users could become addicted to marijuana, with possible links to schizophrenia and lung cancer.
Marijuana refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant. The plant contains the mind-altering chemical THC, which is responsible for the drug's psychoactive effects. While some people use marijuana for its medicinal properties, others use it recreational for its euphoric effects.
New York is trying to treat an addictive substance just like any other product. The state's efforts to regulate the cannabis industry and protect public health are complicated by the addictive nature of the drug. As more research is done on the risks and benefits of cannabis use, policymakers will continue to grapple with how best to address the issue of addiction in the context of legalization.
