Most people know what marijuana is and even recognize many of the slang names for the drug. However, drug use changes and evolves. Just as the “weed” of today is much more potent than it used to be, the street names for marijuana have also changed. If your teen needs help overcoming an addiction to marijuana or any other substance, contact Foothills at Red Oak Recovery at 866.300.5275 to learn more about our adolescent treatment program.
What You Should Know About the Many Names for Marijuana
The legalization of cannabis in many states has paved the way for an industry that opens markets to young people. Sour-candy edibles and “bud” with recognizable flavors like cotton candy make drug experimentation even more tempting for some adolescents.
By whatever name or method of use, marijuana is still a drug with the potential to create adverse long-term effects, such as:
- Changes in brain function
- Respiratory issues
- Weakened immune system
- Fertility problems
- Mental health concerns, such as depression and anxiety
- Criminal charges
- Negative effects on education and career
Despite popular belief, marijuana can be an addictive substance for some people, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Using marijuana before age 18 increases a person’s risk of developing marijuana use disorder by up to seven times.
If you suspect your child is using marijuana, look for signs of bloodshot eyes, giddiness, paranoia, and tiredness at odd times of the day. They might also have a bigger appetite than usual.
Keep an eye out for drug paraphernalia, such as vape pens, pipes, and bongs. They may also keep eye drops on hand to mask redness in their eyes. Edible cannabis products come in containers that easily pass for a bag of candy, a chocolate bar, or a tin of mints. Pay close attention to any unusual “treats” you did not purchase.
Unusual Street Names for Marijuana
Some nicknames, like a weed, pot, grass, and Mary Jane, never go out of style, but new names for marijuana have also emerged. Unfortunately, staying aware of current trends in drug use is part of a modern parent’s job.
The most important names for marijuana that parents need to recognize are the names for cannabis that are combined with even more dangerous drugs. A marijuana cigarette (joint) that has been laced with crack or cocaine may be called:
- Cocoa Puff
- Bush
- Lace
- Buda
- Crackback
Teens may combine weed with cocaine to mitigate the uncomfortable effects of cocaine high.
A blunt that has been dipped in PCP may be called:
- Zoom
- Chips
- Ace
- Bohd
The combination of marijuana and PCP can cause high blood pressure, vomiting, and paranoia.
Marijuana laced with heroin may be called:
- Brown
- A-bomb
- Woolie
- Woo-woo
Watch for signs of lethargy, slowed breathing, and confusion. Marijuana laced with heroin can cause severe side effects.
Slang names for marijuana mixed with some narcotics include:
- Dust
- Dusting
- Amp joint
A Thai stick is a joint or blunt (a type of large joint) that contains opium.
Marijuana is also referred to by the street name of the region where a specific strain originates. Ganja is from Jamaica, mota is from Spain, dagga is from South Africa, and pakalolo is marijuana in Hawaii.
Five of the most common current slang names to be aware of include:
- Nuggets or nugs: Buds of the marijuana plant
- Chronic: High-quality marijuana that provides a long-lasting effect
- 420: Once believed to be the police code for the crime of smoking or possessing marijuana
- Kush: A popular Indica strain of marijuana
- Haze: A popular Sativa strain of marijuana
While the above terms do have specific meanings, your teen may use them generically to talk about any marijuana.
Foothills at Red Oak Recovery Specializes in Treating Addiction in Adolescent Boys
If you suspect your teen boy is using marijuana and may develop marijuana use disorder, take action now before their drug use becomes even more severe. Call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery at 866.300.5275 for the support you need to help your child thrive.
