States Begin Research on , Mental Health Risks Associated , With Highly-Potent Marijuana.<br />States Begin Research on , Mental Health Risks Associated , With Highly-Potent Marijuana.<br />NBC News reports states that have legalized recreational marijuana have begun research on the adverse effects of high-potency cannabis products.<br />NBC News reports states that have legalized recreational marijuana have begun research on the adverse effects of high-potency cannabis products.<br />Experts fear increased levels of THC, <br />the psychoactive component found in marijuana, could cause psychosis.<br />Newer products of cannabis concentrate, <br />such as wax and shatter, often have <br />THC levels as high as 85 to 90 percent.<br />Newer products of cannabis concentrate, <br />such as wax and shatter, often have <br />THC levels as high as 85 to 90 percent.<br />Comparatively, experts say a typical <br />joint of marijuana had closer to <br />5 percent of THC 20 years ago.<br />Dr. Nora Volkow, the director of the National Institute <br />on Drug Abuse, is worried about the consequences of <br />teens consuming “huge concentrations” of THC.<br />We are seeing a very significant rise in psychosis associated with the consumption of marijuana. , Dr. Nora Volkow, the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, via NBC News.<br />And the higher the content of THC, the higher the likelihood of a psychotic episode. , Dr. Nora Volkow, the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, via NBC News.<br />Per NBC News, lawmakers in Colorado and Washington have debated whether or not to introduce caps on cannabis potency.<br />Representatives for the National Cannabis Industry Association are adamant that <br />public safety is their priority.<br />The best way to address these concerns is through proper testing and labeling... , Bethany Moore, spokesperson for the National <br />Cannabis Industry Association, via NBC News.<br />... as well as ensuring cannabis products are only sold to fully-informed adults through <br />licensed facilities that are required <br />by law to verify legal age for purchase. , Bethany Moore, spokesperson for the National <br />Cannabis Industry Association, via NBC News
