Where does marijuana come from?
Marijuana or Cannabis is obtained from the hemp plant Cannabis Sativa. It is prepared from dried flowering tops and leaves.
Is marijuana addictive?
Yes. While not as addictive as substances such as cocaine, opiates, and nicotine, around 10% of users develop marijuana dependence. This is similar to the rate of users who become addicted to alcohol.
Why is marijuana addictive?
Marijuana effects the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain through the substance THC. These are also utilized by endogenous cannabinoids known as endocabinoids.
What forms of marijuana are available on the streets?
Marijuana is available in several forms with different potencies. These include dried marijuana, hashish, and hash oil. The leaves and stems contain concentrations of THC of up to 5%. The flowering tops contain concentration from 7-14%. Hashish is composed of cannabis resin and has concentrations from 2%-8%. Hash oil consists of extracted THC and can reach concentrations of up to 50%. Overall, genetic engineering has allowed the potency of marijuana to increase greatly over the last few decades
How is marijuana used?
Marijuana is typically smoked as a hand-rolled "joint". It can also be ingested orally but absorption is slow and erratic. It cannot be injected.
What are the immediate effects of marijuana use?
The effects of marijuana can be felt seconds after smoking. There is a sense of euphoria, relaxation, altered time and space perception, altered sense of self, and stimulation of appetite. In some individuals, it can cause paranoia and panic attacks.
Does marijuana have any clinical uses?
Marijuana and it's purified cannabinoids has been the subject of many clinical studies for a variety of uses. Currently, the FDA has approved dronabinol (Marinol) which is purified THC for treatment of nausea in chemotherapy of cancer and for appetite stimulation in AIDS patients
What are some of the signs of marijuana dependence?
Like other drugs of abuse, marijuana dependence is associated with tolerance, withdrawal, loss of control over the amount used, and inability to quit using. Although, more subtle then with other drugs, chronic users can present with depressive symptoms, anxiety, and irritability when they suddenly stop using.
What are the harmful effects of marijuana use?
Marijuana can cause harmful effects on the body after long-term use. Long-term smoking can cause chronic bronchitis and asthma and decrease lung function. It can also cause decrements in cognition and memory. In vulnerable individuals, it can cause panic attacks and psychotic symptoms. I have seen patients have psychotic symptoms that have lasted several days after a single episode of use.

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