Lower-Risk Use
Learn ways to lower your risk of harm and identify when zero cannabis use is best.
How to Lower Your Risk of Harm
If you choose to use cannabis, here are some ways to lower your risk of harm:
- Delay use as long as possible. The younger you are when you start using cannabis, the higher your risk of addiction and other serious health problems.
- Choose products with low levels of THC and equal or higher amounts of CBD.
- Buy legal. Cannabis purchased through non-legal sources is not tested for quality and may contain harmful chemicals, pesticides and/or mould/fungus/bacteria. It can also contain more THC than is listed on the package.
- Stay away from synthetic cannabis products like K2 and Spice.
- Limit your use much as possible, like once a week or less.
- Don't drive or operate other machinery for at least 6 hours after using cannabis.
- Don't mix cannabis with alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, or other drugs, as this can increase how impaired you are and your risk of harmful effects.
When No Cannabis Is Best
There Are Times When Zero Cannabis Use Is Best. This Includes:
- When you're operating a vehicle, ATV, or using machinery or tools
- When you're responsible for the care and safety of others, such as babies or young children
- When you're pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you're under 18 (you must be 18 or older to buy and use cannabis in Alberta)
- If you or a family member have a history of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia
- When taking medicines that can interact with cannabis
- When making important decisions.
