What is THCA?

THCA is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis. It exists in the plant before being exposed to heat and does not produce the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. THCA is often consumed through raw cannabis products such as juices or tinctures. Research suggests that THCA may have potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, but it does not cause the mind-altering effects that can be a concern for families worried about substance use.

Key Points:

• THCA does not cause intoxication or a “high.”
• It is often found in raw, unheated cannabis and is consumed by individuals seeking potential health benefits without psychoactive effects.

What is THC?

THC, on the other hand, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the euphoric and mind-altering effects users experience. THC forms when THCA is heated, a process known as decarboxylation, which occurs when cannabis is smoked, vaped, or baked into edibles. THC interacts with the brain’s CB1 receptors, producing effects such as relaxation, altered perception, and in some cases, anxiety or paranoia.

For parents or loved ones, it’s important to understand that THC is the component of cannabis responsible for impairment. Frequent and prolonged use of THC can have serious consequences, particularly for adolescents or young adults whose brains are still developing.

Key Points:

• THC is psychoactive and produces the “high” associated with cannabis use.
• Long-term or frequent use of THC can lead to cognitive issues, dependency, and mental health challenges such as anxiety or paranoia.

THCA vs. THC: The Key Differences

The most significant difference between THCA and THC is psychoactivity. THCA is non-psychoactive, while THC is psychoactive, meaning it alters brain function and can impair thinking, mood, and coordination.

THCA:

• Non-psychoactive and found in raw, unheated cannabis.
• Potential therapeutic properties include anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

THC:

• Psychoactive and responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis.
• It can lead to dependency, cognitive impairment, and mental health issues with prolonged use.

How THC Forms from THCA

Decarboxylation is the process that converts THCA into THC. This occurs when cannabis is heated, whether through smoking, vaping, or baking. This chemical reaction is critical to understand, as even products containing high levels of THCA can become psychoactive once they are exposed to heat.

For families concerned about their loved ones’ cannabis use, it’s important to know that consuming raw cannabis (THCA) won’t produce intoxication, but once it is heated, THC is formed, leading to potential mind-altering effects.

Health and Legal Concerns of THC Use

The health risks associated with THC use are particularly concerning for adolescents and young adults whose brains are still developing. Prolonged or frequent exposure to THC can lead to a range of short- and long-term health effects, making it important for parents and loved ones to be aware of these risks.

Cognitive Impairment and Brain Development

One of the most significant health concerns surrounding THC use is its impact on brain development, particularly in adolescents. THC interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating mood, memory, and cognitive functions. In young users, THC can interfere with the development of these systems, potentially leading to:

• Memory issues: Studies have shown that chronic THC use can impair short-term memory, making it difficult to retain information and learn new skills.
• Reduced attention span: Frequent cannabis use can lead to problems with focus and concentration, which may affect academic or work performance.
• Slowed cognitive processing: THC use has been linked to slower reaction times and decision-making processes, which can impair judgment in daily activities.

Mental Health Risks

THC has been associated with a number of mental health issues, particularly when used in high doses or over long periods. Some individuals are more susceptible to these risks, especially those with pre-existing mental health conditions or a genetic predisposition. Mental health challenges linked to THC use include:

• Anxiety and paranoia: While THC can provide relaxation for some, higher doses may induce anxiety or paranoia, especially in new or infrequent users.
• Depression: Chronic THC use has been associated with an increased risk of depression, particularly in individuals who begin using cannabis at a young age.
• Psychosis: There is evidence that high THC use, especially in genetically predisposed individuals, can trigger episodes of psychosis, hallucinations, and delusions. This is particularly concerning for those with a family history of mental illness, as THC may exacerbate underlying conditions.
• Increased risk of schizophrenia: Regular THC use has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing schizophrenia, particularly for individuals who begin using in adolescence.

Addiction and Dependency

While many people believe cannabis is not addictive, THC does have the potential to cause dependency. Approximately 30% of regular cannabis users may develop what is known as marijuana use disorder, where they experience cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty stopping use even when they want to.

The risk of dependency increases with frequent use, high doses of THC, and starting cannabis use at a younger age. Symptoms of THC dependency can include:

• Irritability and mood swings
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia
• Loss of appetite
• Cravings for cannabis
• Difficulty concentrating or performing daily tasks without using cannabis

Physical Health Impacts

In addition to cognitive and mental health risks, THC can also have direct effects on physical health. While not as severe as some other substances, the following concerns are important to consider:

• Respiratory issues: Smoking cannabis, which is the most common method of consuming THC, can lead to respiratory problems, such as chronic cough, bronchitis, and lung irritation. Although THC does not have the same carcinogenic risks as tobacco, inhaling smoke of any kind can damage lung tissue over time.
• Heart health: THC use, particularly in high doses, can lead to increased heart rate, which can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Cannabis has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks in young people shortly after use.
• Weakened immune system: Some studies suggest that regular cannabis use may suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Impaired Motor Skills and Driving Risks

Another significant health concern associated with THC use is the effect it has on motor skills and reaction times. THC impairs coordination, which can be particularly dangerous when driving or operating machinery. Driving under the influence of THC is a growing public health concern, as it significantly increases the risk of car accidents. Even though some individuals believe they can drive safely while high, studies show that THC impairs perception, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Understanding the health risks of THC use is essential for recognizing the potential dangers, particularly in young users. While THC can have therapeutic benefits when used in a controlled medical setting, frequent and prolonged use can lead to cognitive impairment, mental health challenges, physical health risks, and even addiction. If you are concerned about a loved one’s cannabis use, it may be time to seek help from a professional addiction treatment center.

Early intervention can prevent long-term health consequences and provide the support needed for recovery.

Recognizing THC Use and Addiction

For parents and loved ones, identifying the signs of THC use and the potential development of addiction is crucial in providing early support and intervention. THC, being the psychoactive component of cannabis, can lead to both short-term behavioral changes and long-term dependency in users, particularly in adolescents and young adults. Recognizing these signs can help families address the issue before it escalates into a more serious problem.

Behavioral Signs of THC Use

Changes in behavior are often the most immediate and noticeable signs of THC use. While everyone reacts differently to cannabis, certain common behaviors can indicate regular or problematic use. These include:

• Increased secrecy or isolation: Users may become more private about their activities, avoiding family or withdrawing from social situations they previously enjoyed.
• Mood swings: THC affects brain chemistry, and users can exhibit sudden shifts in mood, ranging from euphoria to irritability. These mood swings may seem out of character for the individual.
• Lack of motivation: Frequent THC use can lead to amotivation syndrome, where users lose interest in previously important activities, such as hobbies, school, or work. This disinterest is often accompanied by a noticeable decline in performance.
• Altered sleep patterns: THC use can affect sleep, leading to oversleeping or insomnia, depending on how often it is used and the individual’s response to it. Cannabis is often used as a sleep aid, but this can also lead to dependency.
• Change in friend groups: A sudden change in social circles, particularly toward friends who also use cannabis, could be a sign that your loved one is engaging in frequent use.

Physical Signs of THC Use

While behavioral changes are often the most noticeable, there are also several physical signs that may indicate THC use:

• Red, bloodshot eyes: This is one of the most well-known physical signs of THC use, caused by the dilation of blood vessels in the eyes.
• Dry mouth and increased thirst: Users often experience cottonmouth, which can lead to increased water consumption or complaints of dry mouth.
• Increased appetite: Commonly known as the “munchies,” THC can stimulate appetite, leading to unusual or excessive eating habits, particularly of junk food or snacks.
• Slower reaction times and impaired coordination: THC affects motor skills, and users may appear clumsy or have difficulty performing tasks that require fine motor coordination. This is particularly noticeable if the person is using THC regularly.

Emotional and Psychological Signs of THC Use

THC also impacts emotional and psychological health, and over time, these changes can become more pronounced. Some emotional and psychological signs include:

• Increased anxiety or paranoia: While some individuals use THC to relax, others may experience heightened anxiety or even paranoia, particularly at higher doses.
• Depression or apathy: Regular THC use has been linked to a lack of motivation and depressive symptoms, especially in long-term users. They may seem disengaged from life, school, or work responsibilities.
• Memory and concentration problems: THC impacts cognitive function, and users may experience short-term memory issues or difficulty focusing on tasks.
• Lack of interest in personal hygiene or appearance: For some users, regular THC use may lead to neglect of self-care habits, resulting in a noticeable change in appearance or cleanliness.

Warning Signs of THC Dependency

While not everyone who uses THC will develop a dependency, the risk increases with frequent, heavy use. It’s important to recognize the signs of THC dependency, which can manifest both physically and psychologically:

• Increased tolerance: A hallmark of dependency is needing to consume more THC to achieve the same effects. This can lead to escalating use, which increases the risk of addiction.
• Cravings for cannabis: Someone dependent on THC may experience strong urges to use cannabis throughout the day. These cravings can interfere with daily responsibilities and obligations.
• Failed attempts to cut back: If a loved one tries to reduce or stop using THC but struggles to do so, it may indicate that a dependency has formed. Repeated failed attempts to quit can signal addiction.
• Withdrawal symptoms: When an individual dependent on THC attempts to stop using, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes. These symptoms may drive the person back to cannabis use to alleviate the discomfort.

Recognizing Escalating Use and Its Impact

One of the challenges with THC use is that it can escalate over time, especially in individuals who begin using cannabis recreationally or for stress relief. As tolerance builds, users may feel the need to use larger amounts or more potent forms of cannabis, such as concentrates or edibles, to achieve the desired effect. This escalation can lead to more severe health and psychological consequences, making it harder to quit or cut back.

Long-term, heavy use of THC can also lead to:

• Social isolation: Individuals who become dependent on THC may begin to isolate themselves, withdrawing from relationships with family and friends to prioritize cannabis use.
• Neglect of responsibilities: Over time, a person’s priorities may shift, with cannabis use taking precedence over important obligations, such as work, school, or family responsibilities.
• Legal or financial troubles: Continued THC use, particularly in areas where cannabis is illegal or heavily regulated, can lead to legal consequences. Financial problems may also arise if a person spends excessive amounts of money on cannabis.

Addressing THC Use: The Role of Professional Help

If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with THC use or dependency, it’s important to act early. Denial is common among those using cannabis, especially since it is often viewed as a “safe” drug. However, the risks of THC dependency, mental health challenges, and impaired functioning are real, and seeking professional help can make a significant difference.

An addiction treatment center, such as Healthy Life Recovery, can provide the support and tools needed to overcome THC addiction. Professional treatment may include:

• Therapy and counseling: Individual and group therapy sessions help address the psychological aspects of addiction, teaching users coping mechanisms for stress and triggers.
• Detoxification: For individuals struggling with dependency, a detox program can help manage withdrawal symptoms in a safe, supportive environment.
• Outpatient treatment: Outpatient programs offer flexibility for those who need support but cannot commit to full-time residential treatment, allowing them to maintain work, school, or family responsibilities while receiving care.

Recognizing the signs of THC use and addressing them early is critical in preventing the long-term negative impacts of cannabis addiction. Families and loved ones can play a crucial role by staying informed, having open conversations, and seeking professional help when needed.

A Balanced Understanding of THCA and THC

For concerned parents and loved ones, understanding the difference between THCA and THC can help demystify cannabis use. While THCA offers potential therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects, THC is responsible for the “high” and has the potential for dependency and mental health risks. If you believe your loved one is struggling with THC use, it is important to reach out to a professional for guidance. Addiction treatment centers can provide support, offering a safe environment for recovery and long-term wellness.

If you have any concerns about THC or cannabis use in your family, contact our treatment center today for more information on how we can help your loved one regain control of their life.

If you or a loved one is struggling with cannabis or THC use, Healthy Life Recovery in San Diego, CA, is here to help. Our dedicated team provides comprehensive drug and alcohol detoxification as well as outpatient addiction treatment tailored to your specific needs. With compassionate care and evidence-based therapies, we are committed to supporting you on your journey to recovery.

Take the first step toward a healthier life today. Contact Healthy Life Recovery to learn more about our programs and how we can help you or your loved one regain control and achieve lasting wellness.

Why does this happen? How much weed do I have to use to experience these effects? Do stimulants enhance the effects?

Whether and to what extent weed causes these conditions are not easy to determine. Continue reading to see what research is saying about weed paranoia and psychosis.

Weed Paranoia

Many often associate cannabis with relaxation, but it’s also known to heighten feelings of paranoia or anxiety in others. Paranoia is when someone has an irrational suspicion of other people, like feeling someone is watching you, following you, or trying to harm you. 

THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) binds to endocannabinoid receptors in the brain, like the amygdala, which regulates the response to fear-related emotions. Weed that’s rich in THC may overstimulate the amygdala, increasing negative emotions that make you feel paranoid and anxious.

Not everyone experiences paranoia with weed, and those who do may not experience it every single time they use it. There’s no correct answer as to why someone experiences paranoia with weed, but some factors to consider are genetics, THC content, or the use of stimulants.

Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Psychosis is when someone experiences a disconnection from reality, such as hallucinations or delusions. It is not exactly a condition but rather is the description of symptoms that may arise from different mental health disorders, including addiction. Symptoms of psychosis include unrealistic paranoia, overwhelming anxiety, a detached sense from reality, hallucinations, or delusions.

A hallucination refers to a sensory perception that isn’t real, such as seeing, hearing, or smelling something that nobody else does. A delusion describes a false belief, like having supernatural powers or that someone’s trying to kill you. Psychosis typically involves both, but it is possible to experience one without the other.

Cannabis-induced psychosis disorder (CIPD) generally involves severe hallucinations or delusions during or shortly after the use of cannabis. While many drugs are capable of producing symptoms of psychosis, cannabis-induced psychosis builds over time with consistent cannabis abuse.

Any type of substance abuse disorder can eventually lead to psychological problems, changes in personality, or psychotic episodes that may pose a threat to the individual or those around them. People experiencing these psychotic episodes may lash out and cause harm to themselves or others without even being aware of their actions.

Even though substances such as opioids or LSD are generally more harmful than cannabis, the appearance rate of cannabis-induced psychosis is greater than any other drug. States that have passed legislation for recreational marijuana use have reported large increases in the number of psychotic episodes in emergency rooms related to cannabis. The daily use of highly potent weed increases the chances of developing psychosis by five times as opposed to those who have never used it before.

Signs of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Psychosis can cause many troubling symptoms. If you witness any of these symptoms in someone who uses weed regularly, it is vital to understand that the situation could quickly worsen.

• Atypical behavior: a person who is typically outgoing then becomes withdrawn and reclusive.
• Severe anxiety: feelings of paranoia or unrealistic interpretations of the surrounding environment can become overwhelming very quickly and without intervention.
• Detachment from reality: people experiencing a psychotic episode may seem distracted or unresponsive. They may have difficulty recognizing familiar people or loved ones’ names.
• Hallucinations: this can be hearing, seeing, or remembering things that aren’t real.
• Sleep problems: often, those struggling with drug-induced psychosis have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping at acceptable times.
• Depression- these experiences are stressful, causing some people to develop symptoms of depression.

Effects of Stimulants With Marijuana

Stimulants refer to drugs that increase the activity of the central nervous system, elevating your blood pressure, heart rate, mood, energy, and alertness. These “uppers” can be highly addictive and have been found to cause paranoia. Stimulants can include cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription medications for ADHD.

There is little research on the matter because the effects will vary depending on the individual. Combining weed with other stimulants has been shown to enhance certain experiences and cancel out others.

For more information specific to Adderall, read our article on What Happens When You Combine Adderall and Weed.

Factors To Consider

There are many different factors to consider as to why psychosis may develop, such as the amount of weed used, the age at first use, and genetics.

If someone smokes weed consistently, their body will develop a tolerance to the drug. This is why those who use marijuana every day often use high-potency strains of marijuana. The higher the amount of THC, the more intense the effects become, which can lead to climactic or even dangerous episodes.

Weed is one of the most commonly abused substances among people with schizophrenia, a mental health condition that can cause psychosis. However, if you have specific genes or already have schizophrenia, the symptoms may get worse with marijuana use. Some of the genes that may develop into schizophrenia are AKT1 and COMT.

Research shows that there may be a link between mental health disorders and how early in life one participates in cannabis use. Men typically show signs of schizophrenia in their late teens to early 20s and women in their late 20s to early 30s, but using marijuana can make symptoms show up as much as 3 years earlier. This may be because the human brain is still developing until about the age of 25. Thus, adolescent drug use may affect the brain’s development.

While there is no significant evidence for weed being a direct cause of psychosis, there is significant evidence for increased risk of alcohol and other drug use disorders.

Overcoming Cannabis Use Disorder

When it comes to toxic exposure, the brain is one of the most vulnerable parts of the human body. While cannabis is legal in many states and thought to be one of the “safest” options for recreational drug use, the reality is that extensive cannabis use has an undeniable effect on brain chemistry and can lead to dangerous mental health events. All cannabis users should consider the link between weed and psychosis symptoms and pay close attention to the signs.

If you have been experiencing psychological disorders such as paranoia or psychosis related to substance abuse, Healthy Life Recovery can help. We are a drug and alcohol rehab center located in San Diego, California, that can help you cope with the symptoms of mental health disorders and recover from addiction. Call us today at (855) 695-1880 to learn more.

References:

“Is There a Link between Marijuana Use and Psychiatric Disorders?” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 13 Apr. 2021, https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/there-link-between-marijuana-use-psychiatric-disorders.

Russell, Peter. “Study Sheds Light on Marijuana and Paranoia.” WebMD, WebMD, 17 July 2014, https://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20140717/marijuana-paranoia.

But exactly what happens in your body when you combine Adderall and weed? And is the practice safe for the average user? In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about using Adderall and weed together. And, if you decide you need treatment, we’ll also give you some resources to find help. Let’s get started!

Side Effects of Adderall and Weed

To understand what happens when you combine Adderall and weed, it’s important to understand their individual side effects. This will help show the interaction between the two drugs. So, to start, we’ll show you what usually occurs when you take these two substances separately.

Adderall

Adderall is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It’s composed of four different kinds of amphetamine salts, including:

• Dextroamphetamine saccharate
• Amphetamine aspartate
• Dextroamphetamine sulfate
• Amphetamine sulfate.

Adderall increases the dopamine and norepinephrine levels inside the brain. Typically, the drug is used to make people with ADHD more focused. However, it’s often used as a stimulant by non-ADHD people to improve performance or pleasure. Here are some of the minor side effects that can come from Adderall usage:

• Dry mouth
• Depression on the comedown
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• A change in sex drive
• Diarrhea

More serious side effects of Adderall can include:

• Significant elevation in blood pressure
• Severe muscle pain or weakness
• Painful or prolonged erection
• Altered sensation or discoloration in your fingertips or toes
• Slurred speech
• Feelings of dizziness
• Occurrence of seizures
• Development of verbal or physical tics
• Habitual teeth grinding
• Appearance of rash or hives
• Skin that begins to peel or blister
• Swelling of the face, tongue, eyes, or throat

Marijuana (Weed)

Weed, or cannabis, is a psychoactive drug that’s often smoked or consumed. Weed is often thought of as innocuous. However, the reality is that it can come with some serious side effects that make it unsafe for many users. The main psychoactive component in the drug is known as THC. This provides users with a euphoric head high.

However, it can come with some negative feelings as well. These negative feelings can be amplified by the potency of the weed or the user’s tolerance levels. The side effects include:

• Heightened sensory perception (such as more vivid colors)
• Distorted sense of time
• Mood fluctuations
• Hindered motor skills
• Challenges in thinking and problem-solving
• Memory impairment
• Hallucinations (when consumed in large quantities)
• Delusions (with high doses)
• Increased risk of psychosis, especially with frequent use of potent marijuana

Because of marijuana’s historical status as an illegal drug, studies into its long-term effects have only recently begun to explore these issues. However, some studies have been published that theorize that there are other harmful side effects of prolonged usage or habitual use by adolescents.

• IQ Decline in Adolescents: A study from New Zealand, partly conducted by Duke University, revealed that heavy marijuana users who started in their teens lost an average of 8 IQ points between ages 13 and 38. The cognitive decline was not fully reversible, even after ceasing marijuana use as adults.
• Adult Usage Impact: The same study noted that adults who began using marijuana did not experience notable IQ declines, suggesting the impact is more significant when use begins at a younger age.
• Twin Study Observations: Another study on twins indicated a significant decline in general knowledge and verbal ability (equivalent to 4 IQ points) from preteen years to early adulthood among marijuana users. However, no predictable differences were observed between twins when only one used marijuana, pointing to possible non-marijuana-related factors like genetics or family environment affecting IQ.
• Ongoing Research: The National Institute on Drug Abuse’s (NIDA) Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study is a major longitudinal study tracking young Americans from late childhood to early adulthood. It aims to clarify how substances like marijuana influence adolescent brain development.

Is It Safe to Combine Adderall and Weed?

Part of the problem here is that individual experience varies widely when people take Adderall and weed together. On top of that, there is very little research that studies the effect that the two substances have on each other. However, there have been some noticeable side effects when the two substances are taken together.

One of these is increased stimulation. Both of these substances will cause your heart rate to spike. While this might be fine for some people, it can be dangerous to those with heart conditions. In addition to this, users reported elevated levels of euphoria and less anxiety associated with their Adderall high.

This is thanks to the sedative qualities provided by cannabis. Weed also stimulates the appetite. As such, this can cancel out the appetite suppression that comes with Adderall. In this way, weed can help people on Adderall avoid weight loss. Unfortunately, this can lead to some messy long-term consequences.

As we mentioned, weed can cancel out some of the negative side effects associated with Adderall. While this might sound nice, it can lead addictive individuals to take more of the substance as a result. This digs the user into an even deeper hole. If left unchecked, then it is a combination of drugs that can quickly turn into an Adderall addiction. 

How to Tell If You’re Dependent on Marijuana

Addiction is incredibly complicated. This makes it difficult for potential addicts to identify their disease. Often, it’s difficult for addicts to admit they have an addiction. This is especially true for addicts taking Adderall or marijuana. These days, it’s easy for addicts to have access to these drugs legally.

However, just because you have a prescription doesn’t mean that you can’t abuse it. Often, we only associate addiction with hard drugs like opiates or cocaine. But there are plenty of legal drugs that can be abused. Alcohol is just one example. So, how can you tell if you’re an addict? Here are twelve signs:

• Difficulty stopping use or taking breaks
• Increasing the dosage to feel the way it originally did
• Craving the substance throughout the day
• Thinking about ways to acquire more of the substance
• Prioritizing the substance over activities you once enjoyed
• Using the substance in hazardous situations multiple times
• Continuing to use the substance despite it negatively affecting your health
• Using the substance even when it negatively affects those close to you
• Forgetting important responsibilities because of the substance
• Greater tolerance to the substance
• Withdrawal symptoms present when you stop taking the substance

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then don’t panic. Instead, take this addiction self-test. It will help you answer some potentially difficult questions. From there, you can begin seeking the help that you need. 

Addiction Treatment in San Diego with Healthy Life

We hope this article helped teach you more about the long-term consequences of combining Adderall and weed. If you suspect that you have a drug problem, then finding a rehab center should be a priority. However, finding the right rehab center isn’t always easy. Unfortunately, many programs center exclusively around detox.

While this is fine for the short term, it’s setting up patients for failure in the long term. Instead, look for a rehab program like Health Life Recovery. We are a drug and alcohol rehab center located in San Diego, California, that provides medically-supervised detox and outpatient care to men and women struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Every addict is unique. That’s why we tailor our program individually to fit their specific needs. So, if you’re ready to begin the first step of your recovery journey, then get in touch with us today.