Harm reduction strategies

Even with solid facts and convincing arguments about the dangers of marijuana, you or a loved one may still end up using it. But, while quitting might not be an option in the immediate future, you can still practice (or share) harm reduction strategies that will help keep you as safe as possible when using marijuana.

Avoiding Illicit Marijuana

Earlier in the course, you learned that marijuana can be laced with other drugs or substances, such as lead, PCP, and heroin. This list continues to include:

• Fentanyl
• Embalming fluid
• Laundry detergent
• Ketamine
• Cocaine

Why would anyone want to lace marijuana? Most of the time, the answer lies in profits. In the illicit drug market, sellers want to make as much money as possible. This leads them to using other drugs or substances that are not only cheaper, they increase the amount of the original product. Other times, drugs are laced with other substances to change its effects.

Lacing creates a combination of substances that can quickly turn deadly. Because legal marijuana is regulated, it is much safer to purchase from an official dispensary than a dealer off the street.

Vaping Vs Smoking

For many, vaping marijuana is thought to be a safer alternative than smoking marijuana. Yes, vapes do have less harmful chemicals than traditional cannabis and tobacco smoke. However, vaping delivers much higher amounts of THC, which increases your risk of negative side effects.

Studies show that, compared to marijuana smoking, vaping increased:

• Short-term anxiety
• Paranoia
• Memory loss
• Distraction

Simply put, if you’re going to use marijuana, try sticking to joints instead of vape pens!