Marijuana: Health effects of recreational and medical use

Marijuana is widely used, especially in adolescents and young adults. In the US, there are about 20 million users (about 7.5% of people aged 12 or older). Marijuana is a mind-altering (psychoactive) drug. Similar to hemp, it comes from the cannabis plant. The plant’s primary drug effects come from the chemical delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or “THC.” Marijuana is smoked, “vaped” (inhaling the vapor), or ingested in foods or teas. Over the last few decades, the concentration of THC in the cannabis plant has been increasing. In addition, the plant extracts are more potent. Short-term effects of marijuana Marijuana is often used for its “high,” and can make people feel more relaxed, alter the senses, and cause time distortion. It can also impair thinking, judgment, coordination, and memory. In some people, it may lead to paranoia or anxiety. Physical effects may include bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, slurred speech, and increased heart rate. These sensations may last up to four hours after inhaling marijuana smoke, or up to 12 hours if consumed, though performance impairments may last for much longer. Long-term effects of marijuana Smoking marijuana can irritate the lungs and lead to breathing problems like cough, excess mucus, bronchitis, and worsening of conditions like asthma and cystic fibrosis. It is not clear if smoking marijuana is linked to lung cancer. Marijuana use during pregnancy can also harm a baby’s brain development. We are learning more about the long...
Source: New Harvard Health Information - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Behavioral Health Brain and cognitive health Drugs and Supplements Pain Management Source Type: news