Cautionary advice

Here is what you should know before buying or using cannabis.

Health risks and effects

Cannabis' smoke is harmful to health.

Avoid using cannabis if you drink alcohol.

Cannabis can create a dependance and increases the risk of developing mental health problems (psychosis, schizophrenia, hallucinations, paranoid thoughts, depression and anxiety).

Ask your physician or pharmacist about the possible interactions between cannabis and any medication you are taking.

Consuming cannabis when pregnant or breast-feeding can affect the child's development.

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.

Cannabis smoke can cause other health damage:

Risk of developing cancer.
Higher blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Appearance or aggravation of a respiratory disease.
Negative effect on brain development.
Decline in academic or work performance, adverse effect on life goals.

Teenagers are at a high risk of suffering harmful effects from cannabis use.

Here are other responsible behaviours to adopt to minimize the risks associated with cannabis use:

Opt for occasional - not regular - cannabis use.
Keep cannabis away from children and teens. Also, make sure they don't inhale second-hand smoke.
To choose the product best suited to you, rely on the advice of SQDC staff.
Check with your physician whether your health condition allows you to use cannabis.

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.

Rules of sale

30 g

maximum per transaction

30 g

maximum allowed on one's person

150 g

maximum allowed at home

21+

For more information about cannabis, visit the following Gouvernement du Québec's websites: Encadrement Cannabis and Portail santé mieux-être. You can also visit the Health Canada website.

Gouvernement du Québec

Minimize the risks. Learn more before you use cannabis.

read the leaflet

Health Canada

Consumer information: common effects and how to lower the risks

read the leaflet

FAQ

Find quick answers to many questions.