Facts
On Marijuana
What Is Marijuana
Marijuana, or cannabis,
is a plant found in many areas of the world.
It contains the mind
altering substance, THC. THC disrupts nerve cells in the part of the
brain
where memories are formed.
This may make it
hard for the user to recall events.
Some studies have shown that users of marijuana over a long period
of time can have
impaired brain function. There are also 400 other chemicals in the marijuana
plant.
If you or someone
you know uses marijuana and it has become a problem, help
is available. Contact your local EAP assessment service for more information.
The effects of marijuana
depend on dose, strength of the drug, how it is taken,
the experience of the user, and whether the user is drinking alcohol or using
other
drugs.
Short-term Effects
Of Marijuana
| • |
Sleepiness
and increased hunger |
| • |
Headache and
dizziness |
| • |
Paranoia and
hallucinations |
| • |
Can trigger
seizures in people with epilepsy |
| • |
Reduced ability
to perform tasks requiring concentration, such as driving
a car |
| • |
Increases heart
rate |
| • |
Potential cardiac
dangers for those with preexisting heart disease |
| • |
Impaired or
reduced short-term memory |
Long-term Effects Of Marijuana
| • |
Enhanced
cancer risk |
| • |
Lung tissue
becomes inflamed |
| • |
Decreased testosterone
levels for men |
| • |
Increased testosterone
levels for women, which can increase facial and
body hair growth |
| • |
Risk of lasting
changes in brain function |
| • |
Increased risk
of infertility in women |
| • |
Lowers sperm
count in men |
| • |
Diminished or
extinguished sexual pleasure |
| • |
Use during pregnancy
may affect the baby during and after birth |
| • |
Psychological
dependence |
Marijuana Facts
• A recent
study of 1,023 patients admitted to a trauma unit that receives
only the most seriously injured accident victims found that one-third had
detectable levels of marijuana in their blood.
• In laboratory tests, tars from marijuana smoke have produced tumors
when applied to animal skin.
• People can become addicted to marijuana. There are over 100,000
people that seek treatment per year.
• Marijuana use, possession, delivery, possession with intent to deliver,
and
manufacture of the drug are illegal. Penalties include imprisonment and
fines.
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