1. it's a gateway drug

Though cannabis users are more likely to use other drugs compared to non-users there is no concrete evidence that cannabis use in and of itself causes use of other drugs. The Institute of Medicine found no evidence supporting the "gateway drug" claim. While there is correlation, there is no definitive causation.

2. using Cannabis is a crime and/or leads to criminality

Both recreational and medicinal cannabis has been legalized in Canada. Users must still follow laws prohibiting consumption in public spaces and use of cannabis by those under the legal age. There is also no evidence that cannabis use is responsible for increased criminal activity and behavior. The more sound logic is that criminals are simply more likely to use cannabis and other drugs than non-criminals.

3. cannabis is harmful

Contrary to popular belief, cannabis use does not kill brain cells. This myth is based on a study done by Robert G. Heath. Heath exposed three monkeys to high doses of cannabis and claimed to find high levels of brain damage in the monkeys post exposure. This study has since been debunked by better controlled and larger studies done on monkeys. Further studies have shown that in the long term there are minimal differences in the brain health of users and non-users.

4. cannabis makes you high

In both medicinal and recreational cannabis the main cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the cannabinoid that produces euphoria and/or the feeling of "being high". CBD on the other hand does not produce the same psychoactive effects. Further, some methods of consumption such as topical application of creams or oils do not have any cerebral effects.

5. cannabis makes you lazy

There is no evidence to suggest that long term cannabis use leads to a lack of motivation and effort when compared to a non-user. In the short term a cannabis user can become more lethargic depending on dose, dominant cannabinoids and terpenes, and personal tolerance. However, this lethargy is short-term and will wear off with the rest of the affects of cannabis use in a number of hours.

6. cannabis is addictive

The risk of developing an addiction or use disorder is minimal. When using medicinal cannabis, a healthcare practitioner will take into account dose titration and ensure that the patient is only using what they need to treat their condition. Though 7-9% of marijuana users will develop a use disorder this number falls greatly when considering those who begin use as adults vs. those who begin in adolescence. In context with other drugs, around 15% of cocaine users and 25% of heroin users become clinically dependent regardless of dose and the age they started using.