Responsible use
Here is what you should know before buying or using cannabis.
Cannabis is not an ordinary consumer product, and its smoke is hazardous for one's health. Although each individual has a different tolerance for risk, long-term or regular use of cannabis can have undesirable health effects.
Health risks and effects
Cannabis can create a dependence and increases the risk of developing a mental health problem (psychosis, schizophrenia, hallucinations, paranoid thoughts, depression and anxiety).
Higher blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Consuming cannabis when pregnant or breast-feeding can affect the child’s development.
- Risk of developing cancer
- Negative effect on brain development
- Appearance or aggravation of a respiratory disease
- Decline in academic or work performance, adverse effect on life goals
- Decreased alertness possibly causing road accidents
Don'ts
Driving or operating equipment while under the influence of cannabis is a criminal offence.
Smoking and vaporizing cannabis are banned in most public places. Check your local by-laws on the subject.
Reselling cannabis purchased at the SQDC is against the law.
Behaving responsibly
Here are the responsible behaviours to adopt to minimize the risks associated with cannabis use.
Avoid using cannabis when you drink alcohol.
Ask your physician or pharmacist about the possible interactions between cannabis and any medication you are taking.
To avoid overdosing, begin with a small dose and wait several hours between doses.
Store products securely to avoid accidental access and the risk of intoxication.
- Keep cannabis away from children and teens. Also, make sure they don’t inhale second-hand smoke.
- Opt for occasional – not regular – cannabis use.
- Check with your physician whether your health condition allows you to use cannabis.
- To choose the product best suited to you, rely on the advice of SQDC staff.
Rules of sale
21+
30 g
maximum per transaction
150 g
maximum allowed at home
30 g
maximum allowed on one's person
For more information about cannabis, visit the following Gouvernement du Québec's websites :Encadrement Cannabis and Portail santé mieux-être.
Assistance
resources
Are you or a friend or family member dealing with a problem related to cannabis use? Several assistance resources are available to you. Take advantage of them!
Methods
of use
Smoking, vaporizing or ingesting: each method for consuming cannabis has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
The plant and
cannabinoids
Learn about the cannabis plant and the psychotropic and physical effects attributed to THC and CBD.