Marijuana Drug Abuse Signs & Symptoms
It can be hard to tell if someone has been using marijuana.
Your Brain
THC (the active ingredient in marijuana) affects the nerve cells in the part of the brain where memories are formed.
Self-Control
Marijuana can seriously affect your sense of time and your coordination, impacting things like driving. In 2005, nearly 242,200 people were admitted to emergency rooms suffering from marijuana-related problems.
Your Lungs
Marijuana smoke deposits four times more tar in the lungs and contains 50 percent to 70 percent more cancer-causing substances than tobacco smoke does.
Your Health
Marijuana can limit your body's ability to fight off infection. Heavy marijuana use also has been linked with depression, anxiety and personality disturbances.
It's Not What it May Seem
Marijuana can be laced with substances such as PCP, formaldehyde or codeine cough syrup without your knowledge. "Blunts"—hollowed-out cigars filled with marijuana —sometimes have crack cocaine added.
It Can Be Addictive
Not everyone who uses marijuana becomes addicted, but some users do develop signs of dependence. In 2006, nearly 290,000 people entered drug treatment programs to kick their marijuana habit.
Know the Risks
Marijuana affects your coordination and reaction time, raising your risk of injury or death from car crashes and other accidents. Marijuana affects your judgment, drains your motivation and can make you feel anxious.
Know the Law
It is illegal to buy or sell marijuana. In most states, holding even small amounts of marijuana can lead to fines or arrest.
Quick Facts About Marijuana - Smoking marijuana can cause health problems, such as chronic coughing, chest colds, lung infections, breathing problems and cancer.
- Smoking marijuana is worse than smoking cigarettes. One joint a day can be as harmful as four cigarettes a day.
