Is Medical Marijuana Stronger Than Recreational Marijuana?
The THC strains of street “weed” sold now for recreational use are becoming much more potent than marijuana grown for medical use.
After Colorado and Washington legalized recreational marijuana in 2012, more states have reconsidered legalizing recreational cannabis and becoming more lenient about its medical uses. There are now 18 states that legalized recreational marijuana, and 37 states allow medical marijuana use. The two classes are different but not in terms of potency exactly.
What is Considered Medical Marijuana?
Even though medical marijuana is used to treat certain health conditions, it is never medically prescribed by a doctor, only suggested by one. The Mayo Clinic defines medical marijuana and explains what it is:
Medical marijuana is also known as medical cannabis. Cannabis sativa contains many active compounds, and the best known are delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the primary ingredient in marijuana that makes people “high.” U.S. federal law prohibits the use of whole plant Cannabis sativa or its derivatives for any purpose. In contrast, CBD derived from the hemp plant (less than 0.3% THC) is legal under federal law. Many states allow THC to be used for medical reasons. (Mayo Clinic)
Is Recreational Marijuana Different from Medicial Cannabis?
In a basic sense, recreational marijuana is not different from medical marijuana. The term recreational means using it to feel the effects. It is similar to the way people drink alcohol. People who use marijuana recreationally to relax, get high, and enjoy it like someone would when consuming alcohol.
Still, the THC strains of street “weed” sold now for recreational use are becoming much more potent than marijuana grown for medical use. In many states, the condensed versions of THC as wax, budders, resins, and oils are not legal. However, recreational marijuana that is not formulated to be more potent is more like medical marijuana.
Which THC Strains of Marijuana Are Stronger?
Neither medical nor recreational marijuana is more intoxicating than the other. The only difference is the compound version of the cannabis. THC cannabis is what causes euphoria, and CBD does not. Many medical marijuana products only contain CBD. Therefore, it is safer to assume that recreational marijuana would be stronger if THC and CBD compare. Still, the issue is a popular rumor among marijuana users and people likely to overuse medical and recreational marijuana.
Why is Marijuana Psychologically Addictive?
There is evidence that people who have marijuana use disorders develop a significant physical dependency on the drug, meaning that their bodies eventually become dependent on the presence of the drug to function normally. The effects of dependence and tolerance often coexist, with the user needing to use more marijuana to achieve the desired result or experiencing less of one if they use the same amount. People addicted to marijuana must often use it daily to feel normal and complete their responsibilities.
“Recent data suggest that 30% of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder.” (NIDA)
What Are Marijuana Abuse Symptoms?
When symptoms of marijuana addiction happen, it is medically referred to as a marijuana use disorder. The signs of addiction to this substance will show as someone who continues to use it even when it causes problems at work, school, or with relationships and or finances. It will also be causing physical withdrawal symptoms when this person does not use it every day that include:
- Sweating, fever chills
- Headaches, muscle stiffness
- Cravings
- Irritability and restlessness
- Anxiety and or a depressed mood
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
What Does Treatment For Marijuana Addiction Look Like?
On Call’s treatment programs for marijuana addiction will include safe and effective medication-assisted treatments, also known as MAT if needed. Usually, individuals addicted to marijuana do not need medications to stop using. Yet, many patients do require medicines for other diagnoses that may cause why they are addicted to marijuana. For example, anxiety and depression are common dual diagnoses for this drug. Our programs are evidence-based, and we support our patients with personalized one-on-one attention in therapy and through their treatment program.
We Offer Behavioral Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Counseling for Marijuana Misuse
Marijuana is a very addictive drug. As a result, many people lose jobs and relationships and go to jail or get very ill. Let our expert mental health professionals and personalized treatment formats for marijuana help you today. There is a positive life waiting for you without marijuana. Call now to be admitted directly.
