MARIJUANA
What Is It?
The world’s most commonly used
illicit drug -- and far more
dangerous than most users realize
Pot, grass, weed….there are nearly
200 names for marijuana
Can you name some???
How is it taken???
Make a list…
Background
Comes from a hemp plant
(cannabis sativa)
This plant contains at least 400
different chemicals
The chemical that is mind-altering is
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabihol)
The amount of THC in marijuana
determines the drug’s strength
Levels of THC are affected by many factors
Short Term Effects
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Short Term Effects
Distorted perception (sights, sounds,
time and touch)
Problems with memory and learning
Loss of coordination
Trouble with thinking and problem-
solving
Increased heart rate, reduced blood
pressure
Can also produce anxiety, fear, distrust,
or panic
Long Term Effects
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Effects on the Brain
Acts on receptors on nerve cells
which influence the activity of
those cells
Specifically dealing with:
Memory
Thought
Concentration
Sensory and time perception
Coordinated movements
Effects on the Heart
Within minutes the heart begins
beating more rapidly and the blood
pressure drops
Can increase by 20 - 50 beats per
minute
Risk for heart attack is 4 times higher
with the 1st hour after smoking
Effects on the Lungs
Can experience the same
respiratory problems as tobacco
smokers do:
Cough and phlegm problems
More frequent acute chest illnesses
Increased risk of lung infections
Obstructed airways
Other Concerns
Cancer
THC and the immune system
Marijuana use during pregnancy
Amotivational Syndrome
Driving