How many local ER visits are blamed on marijuana? CLEVELAND (WJW) – Marijuana sales in Ohio are experiencing a significant boom just weeks after dispensaries were licensed to sell recreational cannabis. Recreational marijuana officially went on sale on August 6 , following voter approval in November 2023 .
This surge in sales coincides with an increase in cannabis-related emergency room visits across the nation. Studies indicate that since 2019 , there has been a notable rise in marijuana-related ER visits.
Yes, marijuana can cause psychosis
Dr. Ryan Marino, an ER physician and medical toxicologist at University Hospitals, has observed an uptick in patients presenting with drug-related issues during that same period, although he clarifies that not all cases are directly linked to cannabis. “It’s not that they’re seeing tons of problems,” he said, noting that many ER visits involve various substances.
According to the Cleveland Department of Public Health, there were 632 cannabis-related ER visits in 2023. By contrast, alcohol remains the most used drug in emergency rooms, with 3,331 incidents reported this year.
The New England Journal of Medicine estimates that approximately 52.4 million Americans aged 12 and older used cannabis in 2021. Dr. Marino pointed out that adverse reactions are often associated with high-potency products, especially edibles. “This does seem to be a dose-related phenomenon,” he remarked. “The dose makes the poison.”
Dr. Marino emphasized the neuropsychological effects of THC, which can impact cognitive functions like reading and attention. “Like alcohol, many people can use it responsibly, while others do not,” he noted, highlighting the importance of public education on the risks associated with cannabis use.
Ohio dispensary locator
While 24 states have legalized recreational cannabis, Ohio is among the most recent to do so. Dr. Marino believes that legalization can enhance safety by allowing for product regulation. “When we legalize drugs, the benefit is that you can regulate them,” he said.As the market for recreational marijuana grows, the need for ongoing research into its effects and potential risks becomes increasingly critical. For those experiencing issues related to substance use, assistance is available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services […]
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