Patient & Consumer Guide to Navigating Cannabis Safety

Cannabis products are now available across the U.S. in many forms from various markets. So, you may be surprised to learn that not all of these products have undergone comprehensive safety evaluations or testing for contaminants, harmful additives, and adulterants or that cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc) can interfere with medications and impact underlying medical conditions.

Cannabis is generally regarded as a safe product with low toxicity, but this assessment is based on whole-plant products that are free from contaminants and adulterants. However, many ingredients found in cannabis products, such as additives used for flavoring and consistency, synthesized compounds, and highly concentrated cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc) and terpenes, might be safe, but scientific proof, especially for long-term use is lacking. Also, cannabis is especially prone to contamination during cultivation, manufacturing, handling, and storage.

Unfortunately, it is not always clear how or if cannabis products are regulated or where to find credible sources about their legal status, safety, and efficacy: this is especially concerning if you are one of the millions of Americans who rely on cannabis as an invaluable medicine. Navigating cannabis safety involves recognizing when cannabis is not a suitable treatment option (or intoxicant), the risks associated with products in various markets, the potential impacts of label inaccuracies, and distinguishing common cannabis side effects from symptoms of contamination.

Whether you are purchasing cannabis from regulated, grey, or illicit markets or cultivating your cannabis, our hope at Americans for Safe Access is that this information will enhance your experience with cannabis and contribute to your overall health and well-being.

WHAT'S INSIDE 

• Is Cannabis Right for You?: Information to help you navigate legal & health considerations, including drug interaction details to ensure cannabis is right for you!
• Navigating Cannabis Medicines: Learn about how cannabis works with your body & how to choose cannabis products, including dosage guidelines.
• Navigating Cannabis Safety: Information about contaminants in cannabis & what they mean for your health, what you need to know about product safety by market, & how to read cannabis labels.
• How to Protect Yourself!

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Download "What’s in Your Cannabis? A Patient & Consumer Guide to Navigating Cannabis Safety

DISCLAIMER: The content of these materials is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice or treatment. Laws, regulations, and scientific knowledge concerning cannabis are constantly changing; Americans for Safe Access makes every effort to provide accurate and timely information but makes no guarantee in this regard.