Cannabis

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 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

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

Is cannabis risky to use when I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

There is no known safe amount of cannabis use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you use cannabis, you may be putting your health and your baby’s health at risk. This includes smoking, eating and vaping cannabis.

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. Ask your doctor about safer options to treat your medical condition or pregnancy symptoms, such as morning sickness, nausea, stress and pain.

How can cannabis affect my baby?

• Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC — the part of cannabis that makes you feel high — passes to your baby during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• More research is needed, but babies exposed to THC may have problems feeding and long-term problems paying attention and learning.*
• THC can stay in breast milk for several weeks. “Pumping and Dumping” does not work.
• Cannabis can also impair your judgment, alertness and reaction time as a parent. You need these skills to safely care for your child.

Talk to your Ob-Gyn or health care provider if you’re thinking about becoming pregnant, are currently pregnant, or are breastfeeding and need help to stop using cannabis.

*The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend NOT using any type of cannabis (including CBD) while pregnant or breastfeeding.

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.