Prevention
Explained briefly
One question, one short answer, the way to the detailed article. Specialist knowledge on cannabis, health and the law in a few paragraphs.
Health and addiction
- How long do the effects of cannabis last? Smoked or vaporised, the effect is strongest after about a quarter of an hour and has largely worn off after two to three hours. Eaten, it only peaks after one and a half to three hours and lasts six to eight hours. 1 minute
- What to do during a bad trip? Stay with the person, take them somewhere quiet, talk to them calmly. It usually passes. Call 112 immediately if they are unconscious, have a seizure, severe chest pain or abnormal breathing, or if in doubt. 1 minute
- What are withdrawal symptoms? Restlessness, sleep problems, little appetite, irritability. They usually begin one to three days after last use and are strongest in the first week. Most subside after two to three weeks; sleep and mood often take longer. 1 minute
- At what point are you dependent on cannabis? According to the DSM-5, a use disorder is present when at least two of eleven criteria apply within twelve months. With six or more criteria, it is considered severe. 1 minute
- How are cannabis and psychosis linked? Cannabis is one risk factor among several. The risk increases with frequency of use, THC content, an early start and psychosis in the family. 1 minute
- What is tolerance? People who use often need more for the same effect because the brain gets used to THC. Tolerance is one of the criteria for dependence. 1 minute
- What does the self-test measure? Eight questions about the last six months, up to 32 points. From 8 points, use is considered hazardous; from 12, there are signs of a use disorder. 1 minute
- What is cannabis hyperemesis syndrome? Recurring severe vomiting after long-term, frequent use. Typical sign: hot showers bring relief. The only thing that helps in the long term is to stop using. If the vomiting continues, get medical help. 1 minute
Active substances and lab testing
- What is the difference between THC and CBD? THC is intoxicating, CBD is not. In a controlled study with common mixtures, CBD did not protect against the acute effects of THC. 1 minute
- Why do edibles take so long to kick in? When eaten, THC first has to pass through the stomach, gut and liver. The effect often only peaks after one and a half to three hours and lasts six to eight hours. Do not take more. 1 minute
- What are synthetic cannabinoids and HHC? Substances made in a lab that act like THC, often much more strongly. They are often sprayed onto plant material and cannot be recognised with the naked eye. HHC has been prohibited since 27 June 2024. 1 minute
- What does “total THC” mean? Total THC is THC plus 0.877 times THCA. The value shows the maximum amount of THC that can be produced if all the THCA is converted when heated. 4 minutes
- What does a lab test for in cannabis from cultivation associations? Cultivation associations must regularly test samples. Testing usually covers the active compound content and contaminants. Cannabis containing substances above the maximum levels is destroyed. 1 minute
The law
- How long does cannabis stay in your system? In urine, about three days after a single use, ten to 15 days with daily use and even more than 30 days with heavy long-term use. In blood, a few hours, longer with frequent use. 1 minute
- What does the 3.5 ng/ml limit mean? From 3.5 ng of THC per millilitre of blood serum, driving is an administrative offence. During the probationary period or under 21, any THC effect counts. Combined with alcohol, a stricter rule applies. 1 minute
- Why no more than 10% THC under 21? The brain continues to mature until around the age of 25. That is why cultivation associations may pass on no more than 30 grams a month with no more than 10% THC to 18- to 20-year-olds. 1 minute