Marijuana Facts
The main active chemical in marijuana is THC (delta-9- thetrahydrocannabionol). Short term effects of marijuana use include problems with memory and learning; difficulty in thinking and problem solving; loss of coordination; increased heart rate; and anxiety and possible panic attacks.
Health Risks Associated with Marijuana Use
Effects of Marijuana on the Brain
THC can change the way in which information gets into and is acted on by the hippocampus. This is a component of the brain's limbic system that is crucial for learning, memory and the integration of sensory experience with emotions. THC is shown to suppress the neurons in the information- processing system of the hippocampus.
Effects of the Lungs
Regular use of marijuana can cause the same respiratory problems that tobacco use can. The use of marijuana can cause a daily cough, symptoms of chronic bronchitis, and frequent colds. In addition, THC count, the amount of tar inhaled when smoking marijuana, plus the carbon monoxide absorbed, is 3 to 5 times greater than those of cigarette smokers.
Synthetic Marijuana
Synthetic marijuana is a designer drug in which herbs, incense and leaf materials are sprayed with liquid chemicals to mimic the effects of THC, the psycho active ingredient in naturally grown marijuana. Synthetic Marijuana, also known as "spice" or "K2" first been available in the U.S. in 2008. It is frequently marked in colorful pouches and labeled not for human consumption.