Abstract
The global movement toward legalization of cannabis is resulting in an ever-increasing public perception that cannabis is safe. Cannabis is not the first drug to be available for nonmedical use, nor is it the first to have such an unfounded safety profile. The safety of long-term exposure to phytocannabinoids is misunderstood by, and under reported to, the general public. There is evidence to suggest that long-term use of recreational cannabis may be associated with an increased risk of undesirable side effects. This evidence warrants both appropriate caution from the general public and investment in further research by government and industry sectors that are profiting from the sale of these potent psychoactive agents. There is no doubt that these compounds have medical potential. However, in addition to the medical potential, we must also remain aware of the adverse health effects that are becoming synonymous with recreational cannabis use. This perspective highlights the privileged role that cannabis has as a perceived “safe drug” in society and summarizes some concerning side effects that are becoming associated with regular nonprescribed cannabis use.
Highlights
Cannabis is often considered to be one of the earliest plants used for medicinal purposes by humans.[1]
16–24 year olds may be found to be most at risk because they comprise the portion of the population most likely to consume cannabis,[2,16] and the population most likely to experience the associated side effects.[13,17,18,19]
Cannabis Use and Physical Health Cannabinoids have been linked to a plethora of other side effects related to physical health
Summary
Cannabis is often considered to be one of the earliest plants used for medicinal purposes by humans.[1]. As reported by the United Nations, cannabis is the most grown, transported, and sold controlled substance in the world.[2] To tackle the sale of illegal cannabis, and to make medical cannabis more accessible to those who need it, several countries have legalized cannabis for medical purposes. Some countries have gone a step further and legalized cannabis for recreational use. In late 2018, the sale of recreational cannabis became legal in Canada. Alcohol, and caffeine have been freely available to the public for recreational use for decades. None of these substances are risk free, and all have associated side effects.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
