Health Experts Analyzing Cannabis For Potential Link To Psychosis
Experts are beginning to examine a potential link of high potency cannabis products to mental health risks and psychosis, according to a report from NBC News.
As nationwide cannabis legalization is set to be presented to the senate, it is important to note that various marijuana products have high levels of THC, which is the prominent psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the sensation the drug is known for. THC levels found in marijuana two decades ago were around 5%, compared to some products now which have around 90%.
Various states, such as Colorado and Washington, may deliberate on putting product warnings in place, or potency limits.
Bethany Moore of the National Cannabis Industry Association told NBC that safety regulations should be put in place, and that "the best way to address these concerns is through proper testing and labeling, as well as ensuring cannabis products are only sold to fully-informed adults through licensed facilities that are required by law to verify legal age for purchase.”
Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse Dr. Nora Volkow warned that high levels of THC increase the chances of experiencing an episode of psychosis. She also stated that experts are currently conducting research to see if said episodes can lead to permanent schizophrenia.