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Study Defines 5 mg THC Unit and Weekly Risk Thresholds for Cannabis Use

The paper positions unit‑based dosing as an initial harm‑reduction tool for clinicians, public health bodies, regulators, consumers.

Overview

  • Adults are advised not to exceed 8 THC units per week, roughly 40 milligrams of THC, with risk of more severe disorder increasing above 13 units.
  • For adolescents, increased risk was identified around 6 units per week, about 30 milligrams of THC, with more severe problems at slightly higher intake.
  • Researchers translated reported consumption into standard 5 milligram THC units using yearlong CannTeen data from 150 users and assessed cannabis use disorder outcomes.
  • Within the sample, about 80% of adults using below 8 units did not meet criteria for disorder, while roughly 70% above that level did.
  • Public‑health agencies, including Canada’s CCSA, are evaluating THC‑unit labeling and screening applications, though small sample size, estimated potencies, and variable product strength limit immediate policy use.