US cannabis has significantly increased in THC potency over the past few decades, posing a risk to new and returning users. In the 1990s, 5% THC was considered strong, but today it’s rare to find products below 20% THC in LA dispensaries.
According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, seized cannabis samples averaged less than 4% THC in 1995 and over 16% in 2022. This increase is attributed to both natural strain variations and extracted THC in products like prerolls and dabs.
A California study found a 1,808% rise in ER visits among adults 65 and older between 2005 and 2019, largely due to high-potency cannabis. In Canada, ER rates increased after cannabis flower was legalized in 2018 and further after edibles were legalized in 2020.
Experts warn that these potent products haven’t been thoroughly tested for safety, raising concerns about their use. As more people adopt “California sober” lifestyles, it’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with high-THC cannabis.
Source: https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/04/18/cannabis-thc-high-levels-potency-chart