Each state that legalized the use of marijuana has its own rules for getting a license. Every business, anywhere in the U.S. that sells marijuana must have a license from the state to do so.

Marijuana sales are regulated and taxed by the states at varying rates.

Furthermore, each state has their own legislation regarding:

• The amount of marijuana an adult can legally possess
• If adults can grow their own marijuana plants, and
• How the tax revenue from marijuana sales is spent

Marijuana Use in Arizona

In 2020, Arizona voted (by around 60%) to legalize cannabis for all adults over the age of 21.

Soon after, the Arizona Department of Health Services began taking applications for licenses.

Arizona issued approvals on January 22, 2021. Sales started right away

Multiple states voted to pass recreational cannabis in the November 2020 elections. Arizona rolled out its sales program faster than any other state.

Companies already operating in the medical market could start selling to recreational customers.

The Arizona state government earned over $115 million in tax revenue on cannabis in just 7 months.

How Does Marijuana Affect the Brain?

When marijuana is smoked, THC passes from the lungs into the bloodstream.

The THC chemical then travels to all organs throughout the body, including the brain.

In the brain, THC attaches to the cannabinoid receptors on nerve cells. This changes the activity of those cells.

The brain’s cannabinoid receptors control several of its functions, such as:

The state of euphoria or high is the result of huge amounts of dopamine releasing into the brain.

The Marijuana / Cannabis “High”

The psychoactive effects of using marijuana can vary between one person and the next.

Studies have reported people feeling:

• Happy or relaxed
• Time being extended
• Highly increased appetite

However, using marijuana can also result in the following:

• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Panic

However, using marijuana can also result in far less desirable effects, such as anxiety, confusion and panic.

How the user reacts to marijuana depends on a number of factors, including:

• The dose, strain, and potency of the marijuana used
• Method of use – whether it’s smoked, vaped, or ingested)
• Frequency – how often the user uses marijuana
• The user’s age, gender, and physiology
• Whether the user drinks alcohol or takes other drugs at the same time

Negative reactions are more likely if the user is inexperienced or uses too much. Strong cannabis invariably triggers a stronger reaction.

How Long Does the High from Marijuana Last?

The high from marijuana / cannabis can last anywhere from 2 to 10 hours, depending on factors such as:

• How much is consumed
• The level of THC
• The user’s body weight, body fat percentage and metabolism
• Whether or not the user has recently eaten
• The user’s tolerance to marijuana (regular users will have developed a higher level of tolerance than those new to the drug)

Method of Marijuana Use on Duration of Effects

How quickly the user experiences the effects of marijuana depends on the method of use.

When someone smokes or vapes marijuana the effects start in 2-10 minutes. The THC enters the bloodstream through the lungs. The high peaks at about 10 minutes after use. The effects will last 1 to 3 hours, but sometimes up to 8 hours.

If someone is using edibles it will take longer to feel high. The marijuana has to go through the digestive system. They will start to feel the effects 30-60 minutes after eating the edible. The effects can last 2 hours, but some effects lasting 24 hours have been reported.

Another way to use marijuana is dabbing. This is when concentrated marijuana is smoked in a special pipe. Dabs have a higher level of THC. The effects will start immediately, and last 1 to 3 hours. Some users could feel the effects for a full day.

Why Marijuana Use Can Be Dangerous for Teenagers

The use of marijuana and cannabis products can be dangerous for teenagers. This is because their brain does not fully mature until the age of 25.

Any drug will have an increased impact on brains that are still developing.

State governments have sent confusing health messages to young people. In Arizona, for example, the legal age to use marijuana is only 21. Unfortunately, the same age limit exists for alcohol, too.

Furthermore, the marijuana legalization movement has added to this confusion. The message of marijuana’s health benefits leads teenagers to believe “If it’s medicine, it must be safe.”

The same was believed about prescription opioid painkillers. Now there is a national opioid epidemic.

Teenage Marijuana Use: Strong Warnings For Parents

Parents can share the following information about the dangers of marijuana. The information has come from medical research studies. Their children can make an informed decision about marijuana use.

General Dangers

Marijuana use during adolescence can have these short-term consequences:

• Difficulty learning, including retaining new information
• Accidental injury
• Auto accidents [see below]
• Risky sexual behavior, leading to sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Bronchitis, which can become chronic if marijuana use continues

Marijuana Addiction / Marijuana Use Disorder

Addiction to marijuana is possible, and it’s even more likely if using the drug begins prior to the age of 18.

According to the NIDA, almost 50% of rehab admission for those aged 12-17 years is for marijuana use.

Auto Accidents

Using marijuana impairs an individual’s judgment, alertness, concentration, coordination, and reaction time. Driving while under the influence of marijuana can double a young driver’s risk of an auto accident. The risk is even higher if the individual consumes even small amounts of alcohol.

Existing Mental Illness

In people with a mental health issue, THC can cause the following:

• Panic attacks
• Acute psychosis
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Disorganized cognition

The risk of psychosis is greater if someone has a genetic risk factor.

Poorer Quality of Life

Students who use marijuana are statistically more likely than other non-using students to drop out of high school.

Additionally, later in life, they have been found to have:

• Lower salaries
• Less career success, and
• Lower life satisfaction.

It is believed this is associated with altered brain development and cognitive impairment.

Teenage Marijuana Use: Facts & Stats

A National Survey on drug use says marijuana use among U.S. teenagers has increased over the last 5 years. The survey was published in July 2021.

Illicit marijuana use is at its highest among U.S. teenagers and college-aged young adults.

According to the same survey, in 2019, there was a significant increase in daily use in the younger grades.

U.S. teenagers’ perceptions of the risks of marijuana use have declined over the past decade.

The popularity of vaping devices has grown. Teens have started vaping THC, with nearly 4% of 12th graders saying they vape THC daily.

Lastly, medical emergencies related to marijuana use have also increased.

Furthermore, 6.4% of 12th Graders stated they used marijuana daily or near-daily.

With the growing popularity of vaping devices, teens have started vaping THC (the ingredient in marijuana that produces the high), with nearly 4% of 12th Graders saying they vape THC daily.

Lastly, medical emergencies related to marijuana use have also increased.

Resources for Parents of Teenagers Who Use Marijuana

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA):
  • Marijuana: Expert Articles about Use & Abuse
  • Teen Drug Use: Start a Conversation
  • Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know
  • Parents: Drug Treatment

• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):
  • Learn About Marijuana Risks
  • Talking With Your Teen About Marijuana
  • Treatment Locator

Short & Long Term Effects of Marijuana Use & Abuse

The use of marijuana creates many short-term psychological and physical effects in users.

Long-term use of the drug can lead to an addiction. The medical term for this addiction is marijuana use disorder.

Long Term Effects of Marijuana Use

Long-term marijuana smokers can have health problems later in life. Lung diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema, and bronchial asthma.

All long-term marijuana users can experience the suppression of their immune systems. This makes them more at risk of infection, eg. respiratory infections and pneumonia.

Marijuana use during adolescence has been linked with long-term effects on the body. Medical research studies have shown several issues.

Those who used marijuana as a teen or young adult have altered brain development. Studies show that regular users have fewer neural fibers in some areas of the brain.

Frequent marijuana use during adolescence has been linked to lower IQs. Chronic marijuana use can also increase the risk of depression or anxiety.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse says regular marijuana use causes physical symptoms:

• An increased heart rate for up to three hours after smoking, increasing the risk of a heart attack
• Child development issues both during and after pregnancy [see below]
• Intense nausea and vomiting, medically known as cannabis hyperemesis syndrome

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states regular marijuana use is linked to other physical symptoms, including:

• An increased heart rate for up to three hours after smoking, increasing the risk of a heart attack
• Child development issues both during and after pregnancy [see below]
• Intense nausea and vomiting, medically known as “cannabis hyperemesis syndrome”

The Dangers of Marijuana Use During Pregnancy

Using any drug during pregnancy can have a potential impact on the health of the baby. It does not matter if it is a prescription medication or an illicit drug. Marijuana also can affect the health of the baby.

Some possible health issues from marijuana use during pregnancy include:

Marijuana & Cannabis Use in the U.S: Facts & Stats

U.S. Marijuana Use by Age: 2019

The largest group of current marijuana users in the U.S. are 18 – 29-year-olds (22%).

• 18 – 29 years: 22%
• 30 – 49 years: 11%
• 50 – 64 years: 12%
• 65+ years: 3%

NOTE: The following statistics have been reported (in part) previously in this article. In the interests of completeness, they are also provided here.

According to statistical data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse:

• Marijuana is the 2nd most commonly used drug in the U.S. after alcohol
• In 2019, more than 31.5 million people aged 12 and up reported using marijuana in the past month.
• The 2019 National Survey of Drug Use & Health showed increases in marijuana use in adults over the age of 26. It also showed an increase in use among adolescents aged 12-17 years.
• Almost 50% of those aged 12-17 receiving substance use treatment is for marijuana.
• 11.8% of 8th graders reported using this drug within the last year during 2019
• 6.6% of them stated that they had used it within the last month
• 35.7% of 12th graders reported using the drug within the last year during 2019
• 22.3% stated that they had used it within the last month that year
• 4% of 12th graders report that they vape THC daily
• Every year, there are hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits due to marijuana

Recreational Marijuana Use in Arizona: Facts & Stats

Adding legal recreational marijuana to existing medical usage has been a financial success.

However, marijuana use in 8th to 12th grade is still increasing. This is shown by the latest results from the Arizona Youth Survey (2020).

It is believed that the 2020 results for marijuana use are lower than 2018 because of coronavirus. The 2020 marijuana use is still higher than 2016 use.

There were increases in the use of marijuana concentrates in both the 10th and 12th grades. This is a more dangerous substance than regular marijuana.

Marijuana Addiction & Rehab

Marijuana is the single most popular illicit drug in the United States. Almost 40% of adults report marijuana use at least once. Nearly half of high school seniors have used marijuana.

It is indeed virtually impossible to overdose on marijuana.

There have been no reported cases of marijuana overdose in the United States. Marijuana use can be a major factor in accidental deaths, such as fatal motor vehicle crashes.

Research suggests that marijuana does not have serious withdrawal effects like other drugs.

However, marijuana is considered by medical experts to be intensely psychologically addictive.

More than half of all regular marijuana users are believed to have a mental illness.

For many, marijuana is a form of self-medication. When they stop abusing the drug, their psychological symptoms will intensify again.

Drug treatment for marijuana addiction is available and can help people recover successfully. Yet, many marijuana users are unaware of this.

This can be somewhat explained by marijuana’s false reputation as being harmless. Many people also believe it is not addictive. The majority of users do not see a problem with using it. Or they cannot link the effects of their addiction to any sudden problems in their life.

What is Marijuana Use Disorder?

Becoming addicted to marijuana is not a rapid event. An addiction to meth or heroin can occur in a matter of weeks, even days. With marijuana, it is a far slower psychological and physical process.

Marijuana use disorder is also known as cannabis use disorder. It is becoming more and more widespread across the U.S.

With a marijuana addiction, people continue to use it even though it has a negative impact on their life.

Here is some proven information from research by Yale Medicine:

• Around 10% of people who begin smoking marijuana will become addicted
• Nearly one-third (30%) of current marijuana users meet the criteria for addiction

Marijuana addiction is not only possible – it is even more likely if using the drug begins before the age of 18.

Addiction to marijuana is not only possible – it’s even more likely if using the drug begins prior to the age of 18.

In fact, according to the NIDA, marijuana use disorder accounts for nearly 50% of admission for those aged 12-17 years who are currently receiving professional substance use disorder treatment (also known as drug rehab).

Professional Treatment for Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana does not cause intense physical withdrawal symptoms like other drugs. It also doesn’t last very long – only three days or so.

But, for someone addicted to marijuana, the psychological cravings can be overwhelming.

Is a Professional Drug Detox Necessary for Marijuana Withdrawal?

Many substances need a medically-assisted drug detox as the beginning of any treatment. Marijuana is not one of these. The withdrawal symptoms are not severe, or life-threatening in any way.

Stopping marijuana use does result in some withdrawal symptoms, listed below:

Fortunately, these and any other symptoms should be relatively mild and easily managed.

It is possible to ease the effects of these withdrawal symptoms using the following remedies:

• Exercising
• Taking warm baths
• Increasing water intake
• Reducing fat intake
• Reducing / eliminating caffeine intake

Marijuana Drug Rehab

Professional drug rehab is the single most effective option for treating marijuana addiction. At rehab, patients receive the professional evidence-based therapies needed. They can pursue sobriety in a supportive, safe, drug and alcohol-free setting.

The main goal of drug rehab is to determine what led to the drug use in the first place after the patient has been fully detoxed from marijuana.

Many people start using marijuana because they simply want help to relax or unwind at the end of a long day. But, many people also use it as a way to self-medicate. To stop the symptoms of a mental health issue, such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder.

The presence of marijuana use disorder and a mental health disorder is a dual diagnosis. This can also be called a co-occurring disorder.

Half of all people who have a substance addiction also have a co-occurring disorder. Some are aware that they have them because they have been diagnosed.

Many people do not have a diagnosis. They only know that marijuana helps them to feel better, so they continue to use it.

It is critical to diagnose any co-occurring disorders during drug rehab. This allows the individual to get the treatment they need for both conditions at the same time. This results in a much higher rate of success in their recovery.

Professional evidence-based addiction treatment for marijuana use disorder should include:

• Individual Counseling Therapy. In therapy, patients explore the roots of their addiction. Such as the ways past experiences shape present behavior. They learn practical strategies for coping with ongoing cravings.
• Group therapy. Group counseling sessions are always held under the guidance of an addiction therapist. This form of therapy shows the patient they are not alone. It helps the patient to listen to peers in the same position.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is talking therapy. It can help patients manage their problems by changing the way they think and behave.

Does Health Insurance Cover Marijuana Rehab?

Many people are concerned about going to marijuana rehab for financial reasons. They may not think they have the money to cover such an expense.

They often do not realize that their health insurance covers addiction treatment. The Affordable Care Act requires all health insurance providers to cover addiction treatment.

The costs for an outpatient program should be covered in full by the insurer.

But, every policy is different. People need to check with their insurance providers. At Modern Recovery, we work with many different health insurance companies. We would be happy to verify your insurance coverage.

Modern Recovery Treats Marijuana Addiction

At Modern Recovery, we work with many people who suffer from marijuana addiction. A drug that can be difficult for people to stop using, even though they are not physically addicted.

Our drug rehab program is on an outpatient basis. We specialize in intensive outpatient treatment. This allows people the flexibility to live at home while they get the help they need.

We also offer sober living housing for people who may need it. We understand not everyone has a supportive family at home to help them stay on track.

Sober living offers them a safe, drug-free environment. A safe place to live while they get the treatment they need. This service is also available to those who are coming to our rehab from out of state.

Long-term, sustainable sobriety is the treatment goal. Ongoing support groups are a beneficial option and should be considered.

Staying away from marijuana use triggers can help patients stay sober after treatment. This could be social groups, places, or stressors connected to marijuana use.

Modern Recovery can help with any questions you may have about marijuana addiction. We can also answer questions about getting the right treatment. We can help you begin your recovery from marijuana addiction. Contact us today.

External Sources:

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). What is Marijuana? July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Most Commonly Used Addictive Drugs. July, 2018. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). U.S. National Survey of Drug Use & Health: 2019. September, 2020. Available at SAMHSA.gov.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug? July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Drug fact Sheet: Marijuana / Cannabis. April, 2020. Available at DEA.gov.
• History.com. History of Marijuana. October, 2019. Available at History.com.
• U.S. News. Where is Marijuana Legal? June, 2021. Available at USNews.com.
• Arizona Department of Health Services. Adult Use of Marijuana. 2021. Available at AzDHS.gov.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). FAQs about Marijuana. December, 2017. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• University of Michigan: Institute for Social Research. “Monitoring The Future (MTF): National Survey Results on Drug Use 1975-2020.” July, 2021. Available at MonitoringTheFuture.org.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Marijuana: Expert Articles about Use & Abuse. July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Teen Drug Use: Start a Conversation. July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know. July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Parents: Drug Treatment July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Learn About Marijuana Risks. August, 2021. Available at SAMHSA.gov.
• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Talking With Your Teen About Marijuana. March, 2020. Available at SAMHSA.gov.
• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator. March, 2020. Available at SAMHSA.gov.
• Cedars-Sinai. Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome. 2021. Cedars-Sinai.org.
• Statista. Share of consumers in the United States who currently smoke marijuana as of July 2019, by age group. 2021. Available at Statista.com.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). What is the Scope of Marijuana Use in the United States? July, 2020. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Webcast Slides for the 2019 National Survey of Drug Use & Health. September, 2020. Available at SAMHSA.gov.
• Arizona Department of Health Services. Arizona Medical Marijuana Program August 2020 Monthly Report. 2021. Available at AzDHS.gov.
• Arizona Criminal Justice Commission. Arizona Youth Survey, 2021. Available at AzCJC.gov.
• Yale Medicine, Yale University. Cannabis / Marijuana Use Disorder. 2021. Available at YaleMedicine.org.
• cannabis use disorder
• HealthCare.gov. Affordable Care Act (ACA). 2021. Available at HealthCare.gov.