Delta-8 THC is similar to delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive ingredient of cannabis, although it is less potent. The legal status of delta-8 THC is vague; it is legal in some states but has been restricted or banned in others. In states where the sale of delta-8 THC is legal, packaging may not be child-resistant, and may feature bright colors, cartoon-like images, or other features that are attractive to children and adolescents.
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Cannabis-infused drinks contain the mind-altering ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These drinks, which can be purchased at dispensaries or online, contain various amounts of THC in addition to alcohol, caffeine, or other cannabis derivatives. The safety of these drinks has not been studied extensively in humans.
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Delta-9 THC-O acetate is a synthetic derivative of cannabis and causes psychoactive effects like those of delta-9 THC. There are limited available studies of delta-9 THC-O acetate’s clinical effects in humans, so caution is advised when using this product.
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Cannabis edibles are often sweet or savory products that are naturally attractive to young children. Serious and sometimes life-threatening side effects can occur in children who consume cannabis edibles.
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Medical marijuana is sometimes prescribed for patients with HIV/AIDS, seizure disorders, cancer, severe pain, and severe nausea. The active chemical is usually stronger than in the marijuana plant. There are no regulations for child-safe storage of medical marijuana products; young children have been seriously poisoned by swallowing medical marijuana.
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Marijuana is the most common illicit drug in the US. A few states have decriminalized small amounts of the drug. Some permit medical uses. Marijuana is usually smoked. Effects include altered mood, impaired coordination, and impaired judgment. More severe effects sometimes occur. There is no antidote; treatment is supportive. The drug is sometimes addictive.
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Cannabis is a popular drug, but it is associated with harmful health effects. Devices used to smoke cannabis, including bongs and rolling papers, may also cause health problems and should be used with caution.
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Newer drugs of abuse are sending thousands of people to emergency rooms. They're called "fake pot", "fake weed", and "fake cocaine", but their effects are real and dangerous. Users cannot know exactly what they are getting when they buy and use these drugs. Some users of these drugs are ill for days and some have died.
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"Spice," K2, and fake weed are some of the names given to illegal plant-based substances intended to imitate marijuana. Symptoms can range from anxiety and psychiatric disorders to death. "Bath salts" is a name for a synthetic chemical meant to act like cocaine or amphetamine. Users have had seizures, high blood pressure, and hallucinations; some have died.
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Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most studied compounds of the cannabis plant. CBD drew attention when it was shown to stop seizures in a group of patients with a form of epilepsy that does not respond to conventional therapies. Potential benefits of CBD might include anti-inflammatory, immune system, and anti-anxiety effects. A great deal more scientific investigation is needed.
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