Marijuana Resources

Drug Interaction

Because medical marijuana can cause a lack of coordination, dizziness, and drowsiness, amongst other side effects, it is recommended that you exercise caution when under the influence. The full extent of drug interactions with cannabis are unknown.

According to Israel’s Ministry of Health, “Cannabis is known to have a cumulative effect with opiates, alcohol, and anesthetic drugs.”

Cannabis may interact with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. This may increase your risk of bleeding or decrease effectiveness of these medications. Certain medications may inhibit the metabolism of cannabis.

Women who are or may become pregnant or are breastfeeding should avoid using marijuana as it may cause pregnancy complications, harm your baby’s development, and result in a lower birth weight.

Secondhand smoke from marijuana can have psychoactive effects, and should be avoided for all children.

Please consult with your physician before consuming medical marijuana. 

Side Effects

Side effects from marijuana consumption are possible, especially when using products with high THC levels. Reported symptoms include anxiety and paranoia, and in rare cases, an extreme psychotic reaction which can include delusions and hallucinations. If this occurs, please seek treatment at your closest emergency room. There is also the risk of poisoning when consuming marijuana, as with any other product. If you believe you are experiencing poisoning, please contact the nearest poison control center.

The Nearest Poison Control Center is:

Missouri Poison Center

7980 Clayton Rd # 200, St. Louis, MO 63117

1-800-222-1222

Open 24/7

Alternatively, please call 911 or visit your local emergency room.

Substance Abuse

Marijuana use can lead to the development of problem use, known as a marijuana use disorder, which takes the form of addiction in severe cases. If you begin feeling withdrawal symptoms when going without medicinal cannabis, or experiencing feelings of physical and/or mental dependence on medicinal cannabis, we recommend you immediately discontinue the use of your medication and contact your physician or a licensed substance abuse counselor.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National

Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) 

Harris House St. Louis: www.harrishousestl.org 

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, St. Louis Area: www.ncada-stl.org

Midwest Institute for Addiction: www.midwestinstituteforaddiction.org