What to Avoid When Using Medical Marijuana in New York

Only 38 states in the United States allow the use of medical marijuana, as of 2023. And only 23 states allow recreational use of marijuana. Consumption of medical marijuana is only acceptable if you possess a Medical Marijuana Card in New York, that too only under permissible limits.

According to the NCSL (National Conference of State Legislators), the District of Columbia and other 24 states have allowed running public medical marijuana programs. If you're considering making a foray into the burgeoning medical marijuana sector in the state, understanding the specifics of LLC filing in New York can be crucial for setting a strong foundation for your business.

However, several other states have also approved limited access laws in regards to marijuana consumption. But, the state of New York is the only one that has not just legalized the use of recreational marijuana, but has also decriminalized it.

New York Marijuana Use Dictates

It is now legal for adults 21 and older to possess up to three ounces of cannabis and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis for personal use in New York.

Here's a list of dictates and things to avoid when consuming marijuana or when under marijuana influence in New York:

1. Avoid Abusing Medical Marijuana

Marijuana or Weed has high concentrations of cannabinoids. These cannabinoids comprise of THC and CBD in a large amount. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is said to possess psychoactive agents that make a patient hallucinate and suffer from heavy heart-rates.

Furthermore, it impairs the ability of a person to work and poses the risk of heart diseases. Hence, the consumption of marijuana should be as per the prescription of the doctor. Plus, it has to be consumed under permissible limits only.

Overdoses can lead to cardiac arrest and other neurological ailments.

2. Avoid Breaking the Law and Disrupting Public Order

The rules and regulations in New York are stringent. You must always carry the Medical Marijuana Card in New York.

The law permits the use of medical marijuana, but not for recreational purposes. You must consume medical marijuana only if prescribed by a doctor.

Doctors refer to various types and methods of consumption, and you must adhere to the doctor’s prescriptions. That’s mainly because overconsumption or abusing the drug may have a deteriorating impact on your overall health.

Carrying marijuana that’s more than 25 grams in public places is a breach of the law and a punishable offense. Just stick to the rules and be a law-abiding citizen.

3. Avoid Physical Activity or Work that Requires Focus

According to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there is a considerable rise in road accidents post the legalization of medical marijuana consumption. There was an increase of about 8.8% in auto crashes in several states, including New York, where the drivers were found positive with high THC content.

Medical marijuana targets the nervous system in soothing down the sensations and affects your concentration levels. Hence, it is highly recommended to avoid driving, hardcore physical activity, and any other job or task that requires good focus, concentration and balance between brain and body coordination.

4. Avoid Using Marijuana while on Other Psychoactive Drugs

Marijuana already has strong suppressing qualities that diminish concentration, coordination, and reaction times. It affects one’s reflex movements and is known to also impair visibility and focus.

With all those dangerous effects, if marijuana is consumed while on other influencing drugs, the individual is at high risk to suffer severe and serious symptoms, like high blood pressure, increased heart-rate, and nervous unrest.

If you have abused drugs like cocaine, amphetamines, benzos, and roofies, then you absolutely must and should immediately inform the doctor before commencing to use medical marijuana. This is highly advisable to prevent other physiological ailments and inviting additional medical woes that can arise when you mix drugs.

Ultimately, consumption of medical marijuana anywhere must be done only after consultation with a qualified doctor or medical practitioner.

Remember, legalization of medical marijuana is being introduced only to improve people’s lives and for the betterment of our health. Abusing it will do no one no good.