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Cannabis (Marijuana) 13
Marijuana is the most abused illicit drug. It is the dried leaf of the cannabis plant. The active ingredient in marijuana is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Marijuana cigarettes contain more of the known carcinogen, benzopyrene, than tobacco cigarettes. It is often referred to as a gateway drug. This means that an individual is likely to begin any experimentation with illicit drugs with marijuana and then progress to, so-called, harder drugs (e.g., cocaine, heroin, acid). In recent years the THC content of marijuana has increased from approximately one percent in 1974 to 6-33% today. SD page 69. Nearly 45% of U.S. teenagers try marijuana before finishing high school. 13
Action & Use
THC binds to cannabinoid receptors and interferes with the part of brain that is responsible for muscle movement, sensory perception and memory. The addictive potential of marijuana is still under debate. THC has been used to counteract the nausea an individual may experience while undergoing chemotherapy, provide relief from glaucoma, stop convulsions, reduce muscle spasms and stimulate appetite. The use of marijuana for medical purposes is a highly controversial issue.
Table 11: Cannabis , , |
General Effects
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- Increased pulse rate
- Bronchial passages relax and expand
- Blood vessels of eyes dilate
- Xerostomia
- Increased appetite
- Apathy
- Impaired immune symptoms
- Confusion
- Impaired coordination
- Increased risk of lung cancer, chronic bronchitis
- Impaired memory (temporary and permanent)
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Method(s) of
Administration |
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| Withdrawal Symptoms |
- Irritability
- Sleeplessness
- Anxiety
- Increased aggression has been displayed peaking approximately one week after the last use of the drug
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Depressants
