Current Trends in Cannabis Use
- Increase use of cannabis: Over the past decade, there has been a steady increase in past-year cannabis use.
- Increase in potency: There is three times the concentration of THC in the current cannabis supply compared to previous decades.
- Causing strong effects on the brain and body
- Recent increase in cannabis-related Emergency Room visits
- Increase the likelihood of dependency and addiction
- Increased availability of cannabis and a variety of products
Cannabis/Marijuana Facts
Cannabis and Your Health
- The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommends NOT using any type of cannabis while pregnant or breastfeeding
- Secondhand smoke can be harmful to children
- Cannabis can harm the health and well-being of young people and could permanently affect brain development, especially with heavy use
- People who smoke or vape cannabis heavily are likely to experience irritation or inflammation in the lining of the lungs
Cannabis and the Law
- Must be 21 years of age or older or be a registered medical cannabis consumer or caregiver to purchase
- Remains illegal under federal law and you may not carry it over state lines
- Maryland law prohibits smoking cannabis in public places or in a motor vehicle
- May purchase cannabis products from a licensed dispensary with a government-issued photo ID at the point of sale
Keep in Mind…
- Keep in a safe and secure place, away from children
- Only purchase from licensed dispensaries
- Do not use while pregnant or breastfeeding
- Do not consume more than what is recommended
- Do not use cannabis and drive
For more information, visit the Maryland Cannabis Administration — Adult-Use Cannabis FAQs.
Helplines
- Poison Control Hotline 1-888-222-1222
- Medical Attention / Serious Reaction 9-1-1
- Dependence or Mental Health Support 9-8-8
- Pet Poison Hotline 1-855-764-7661
Youth
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis has many names: “pot”, “marijuana”, “weed.” It has two main active chemicals: CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is the mind-altering chemical that affects a person's mood, thoughts and perceptions - it’s what makes a person feel “high.” CBD is non-impairing and doesn’t cause a “high”; it is not risk-free and carries potential side effects. People use cannabis in different ways, including smoking it, vaping it, or eating it in a food or drink.
In Maryland, cannabis is legal for medical and recreational purposes for those aged 21 years or older. Legalization has created a perception that cannabis is legal and therefore safe; however, that is not the case, especially when it comes to people under the age of 21.
Effects on Brain and Body
Young people are more vulnerable to the effects of cannabis because their bodies and brains are still developing. Starting to use cannabis before the age of 18 significantly increases the likelihood of developing a cannabis use disorder by 4 to 7 times. It’s important to help our youth make informed choices and prioritize their health.
Brain
The negative effects of cannabis use among teenagers include:
- Influence on development: The brain does not fully develop until after the age of 25.
- Increased risk of mental health issues: There is a link between cannabis use and problems such as anxiety and depression.
- Difficulty thinking and problem-solving.
- Problems with memory and learning.
- Reduced coordination.
- Challenges in maintaining attention.
Body
Cannabis use can also impact physical health:
- Lung health: Smoking cannabis can harm lung function.
- Heart health: Cannabis use may affect cardiovascular health.
- Performance: Teens who use cannabis are more likely to drop out of high school or not pursue a college degree. It can also negatively affect athletic performance and create problems in social life by making it harder to maintain interpersonal relationships.
Myth vs. Facts
- Myth: “Cannabis is not harmful because it is legal.”
Fact: The harms related to cannabis use are real, like the risk of addiction and effects on brain development. - Myth: “Everyone is using cannabis.”
Fact: Most teens actually do not use cannabis. According to the 2025 Maryland Cannabis Use Bi-Annual Study in Maryland, about 14% of high school students and 3% of middle school students reported past 30-day use.
What Parents Should Know
How to Start the Conversation about Cannabis?
- Know the facts — stay informed about the types of cannabis, its effects, and laws around cannabis. Use sources such as the CDC and SAMHSA for credible research.
- Start the conversation — choose a moment (walk, drive, etc.). Do not lecture; teens respond better to a conversation. Keep the conversation going as they age and the cannabis scene changes.
- Answer questions — be open, honest and nonjudgmental so they feel comfortable sharing experiences.
Talking to Teens About Cannabis Use Guide
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Talk. They Hear You. campaign helps parents and caregivers prepare to have a conversation with their children.
Know the warning signs?
- Mood changes
- Changes in grades or sleep patterns
- Poor coordination
- Loss of interest in activities
- Red eyes
- Acting intoxicated
Common Questions
These aren't just questions—they are opportunities to connect. Use these pointers to provide honest, science-based answers while keeping the dialogue open.
- Can using cannabis negatively affect my health? There are both short-term and long-term effects. Cannabis can make it harder to concentrate and slow reaction time, which is especially dangerous when it comes to driving and overall decision-making. Your brain is not fully developed until around 25 years old. Cannabis can have lasting effects on brain development, learning, memory and attention span.
- Cannabis is legal, but are there still restrictions? Cannabis is legal for people over the age of 21. Youth are at greater health risk because their brains and bodies are still developing.
- If cannabis is used as medicine, then it can’t be that bad. Cannabis may help with specific illnesses for some people; however, when it is used as medicine, it is overseen and monitored by a medical professional.
- Why is cannabis use riskier for teens and young adults? Today’s cannabis supply is three times stronger than it was 20 to 30 years ago. It is easier to use too much and have a bad experience. More importantly, this potency comes at a higher risk of addiction.
Get more information on talking to teens in the free guide on maryland.gov's BeCannabisSmart page.
Cannabis and Your Baby: What You Need to Know
Cannabis is the most widely used drug during pregnancy to manage nausea and vomiting or “morning sickness.” No amount of cannabis—whether you smoke, eat or vape it—has been proven to be safe. Due to THC, the chemical that makes you feel “high,” cannabis can be passed to your baby during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which can cause serious harm to a baby’s health. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advise against any cannabis use, including CBD, while pregnant or breastfeeding due to the potential risks to the fetus. Let your baby have a healthy start in life!
Cannabis and Pregnancy
Understanding the Risks Cannabis Use Can Cause
Cannabis use during pregnancy may be harmful to a baby’s health and can cause the following problems:
- Low birth weight
- Long-term brain developmental issues affect memory, learning and behavior
- Greater risk of stillbirth
- Pre-term birth (born before 37 weeks)
- Fetal growth reduction (when a baby doesn’t gain the appropriate amount of weight before birth)
Cannabis and Breastfeeding
Understanding the Risks Cannabis Use Can Cause
Cannabis use during breastfeeding may be harmful to a baby’s health and can cause the following problems:
- THC and other chemicals in cannabis can be passed to a baby through breastmilk
- Increased risk of brain development issues
- Long-term attention and learning problems
- Impairs parents' judgement, alertness, and reaction time, which can put your child at harm
Myth vs. Facts
- Myth: “Pump and Dump works.”
Fact: No, THC can stay in breast milk for several weeks. - Myth: “Cannabis is natural, so it is safe.”
Fact: Not all natural plants are safe (example: tobacco).
What if I’m using cannabis for a medical condition?
Just because cannabis is a plant, this does not mean it is safe to use. There are other, safer options to consider besides cannabis. Before starting any new treatment or seeking relief for symptoms, talk with your doctor or healthcare provider to find the best option for you and your baby.
The following safer alternatives should be considered:
- For nausea, try small and frequent meals, acupressure wristbands or ginger.
- For anxiety or depression, try psychological therapy or talk to your doctor about SSRIs specifically for breastfeeding women.
- For pain, try physical therapy, analgesics or topical lidocaine.
Next Steps for Your Health
Talk to your OB-GYN or healthcare provider if you are thinking about becoming pregnant, are currently pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Or call our our treatment referral line at 410-222-6724 for more information.
Storing Cannabis Safely
Keep Cannabis
- Out of sight
- Out of reach
- Locked up
- In its original packaging so the THC warning label is easily seen
What Happens if my Child Consumes Cannabis?
- Your child may have trouble walking, sitting up, appear sleepy, or have trouble waking up or breathing.
- If you think your child consumed cannabis, call the Maryland Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to an emergency room right away. Poison Center calls are free and confidential.
What if my Pet Consumes Cannabis?
- Your pet may drool more than usual, seem confused or lose control of their bladder or balance.
- Depending on the ingredients, there may be additional health concerns for pets. For example, chocolate in edibles can be toxic to dogs.
- If you think your pet consumed cannabis, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at 1-888-426-4435.
What if I Consume too much Cannabis?
- You may feel extreme confusion, paranoia, anxiety, panic, hallucinations, disorientation or delusions, increased blood pressure, fast heart rate, shortness of breath, shaking or severe nausea.
- If you are very sick, call the Maryland Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to an emergency room right away.
Contact Us
Have questions or need support?
- Request cannabis educational materials
- Schedule an educational training or presentation
- Get help or ask a question
Anne Arundel County Department of Health
Systems Training Education and Prevention Services - STEPS
410-222-6724
steps@aacounty.org