Creepy Marijuana in Costa Rica: Everything You Need to Know

What is creepy marijuana?

The term "creepy" or "creepy weed" is used in several Latin American countries to describe a variety of cannabis notable for its high THC content , the plant's main psychoactive component. Unlike traditional marijuana, "creepy" marijuana is typically greener, brighter, and has a less intense aroma, but with much stronger effects.

In Costa Rica, this type of cannabis has been detected in seizures and anti-drug operations, reflecting its growing presence in the local and regional illicit market.

Origin and characteristics of creepy marijuana

Origin and spread

Creepy marijuana originated in Colombia, where growers developed strains with high THC content. Over time, it spread to other countries, reaching Central America, including Costa Rica, primarily through trafficking networks.

Differences compared to traditional marijuana

Feature	Traditional marijuana	Creepy marijuana
Color	Dark green, more resinous	Light green, bright
Scent	Strong and penetrating	Softer, less noticeable
THC	Approx. 10–15 %	It can exceed 20–25%
Effects	Relaxation and moderate euphoria	Intense euphoria, introspection, possible episodes of paranoia

Psychoactive effects and risks

Common effects

• Feeling of intense euphoria

• Distortion of time and senses

• Greater introspection and deeper thoughts

• Impaired motor coordination

• Smiling or states of disinhibition

Potential risks

• Anxiety, paranoia or panic attacks

• Tachycardia and increased blood pressure

• Dizziness and mental confusion

• Greater likelihood of psychological dependence

• Risk of aggravating pre-existing psychiatric conditions

The main concern is that “creepy” contains higher levels of THC, which increases the likelihood of negative effects, especially in young or vulnerable people.

Creepy marijuana in Costa Rica

Seizures and trafficking

Tons of marijuana with "creepy" characteristics have been seized in Costa Rica . These seizures show that the drug arrives via international smuggling routes and is distributed on the black market at high prices, being considered a "premium" variety in the illegal trade.

Consumption and perception

Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in Costa Rica, especially among adolescents and young adults. Because the "creepy" variety is more potent, it generates greater curiosity but also concerns among public health officials and authorities.

Market prices

On the Costa Rican black market, "creepy" marijuana often sells for more than regular marijuana. A small package of just a few grams can cost several times more than traditional weed, due to its potency and the perception of being an "enhanced" product.

Legal regulation in Costa Rica

• Medicinal use : Since 2022, Costa Rica has approved Law 10113, which regulates medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp. This allows for the production, import, and distribution of cannabis products under strict health controls.

• Recreational use : Not legal. Possession for personal use is generally not penalized in small quantities, but marketing and distribution remain crimes.

• New regulations : In 2025, a technical regulation governing medicinal products containing THC came into force, establishing requirements for registration, labeling, traceability, and health control.

Why are we worried about creepy marijuana?

1. High potency : Its THC levels increase the risks of anxiety, paranoia and dependence.

2. Illicit market : since it is not regulated, its purity and whether it contains adulterants are unknown.

3. Impact on public health : could increase cases of poisoning or anxiety attacks.

4. Social confusion : While medicinal cannabis is being regulated , “creepy” generates negative perceptions that hinder debate about responsible consumption.

The future of marijuana in Costa Rica

The country faces three realities at the same time:

1. A legal framework for medicinal cannabis that is becoming increasingly stronger.

2. A de facto tolerated personal use , although without a clear definition in the law.

3. An active illicit market that includes powerful variants such as “creepy.”

Future scenarios will depend on how the social and political debate on the legalization of recreational use evolves and how effective public policies are in controlling the illegal market and educating about the risks.

Conclusion

Creepy marijuana is a more potent and risky cannabis variant than traditional marijuana, and its use in Costa Rica generates both curiosity and concern. Although the country is making progress in regulating medical cannabis, the illicit market for "creepy" marijuana remains a challenge for public health and safety.

Being well-informed, promoting responsible debate, and supporting control and prevention policies are essential steps for Costa Rica to address this phenomenon in a balanced manner.