Marijuana

Guide Note

Marijuana is made from the dried leaves, flowers, stems and seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. Recreational users may smoke or ingest the plant to attain a mind-altering effect. Although prescription, or "medical marijuana," has become available in several states due to the potential medicinal benefits, marijuana remains a U.S. federally controlled substance.¹

Fast Facts

1. Slang words for marijuana include Mary Jane, reefer, weed, grass and pot²
2. Hemp plants look similar to marijuana plants but hemp plants contain very little THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the active ingredient in marijuana³
3. Hemp can be made into fabric, rope and food
4. Contains at least 60 chemicals called cannabinoids¹
5. Marijuana smoke is often inhaled deeper and held longer than tobacco smoke which increases the lungs' exposure to carcinogens
6. Marinol is a pharmaceutical product with similar properties and medical benefits as marijuana⁴
7. Some marijuana users show signs of dependence⁵
8. Has been illegal in the United States since the early 1900s⁶

1. Nausea: Research has indicated that Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol(THC), a component of marijuana, may help treat nausea and vomiting associated with a variety of medical conditions and therapies¹
2. Pain: Studies have found analgesic effects¹
3. Multiple sclerosis: Studies have had mixed results on the effectiveness in the treatment of the tremors, muscle spasms and pain¹
4. Glaucoma: Smoking marijuana decreases pressure in the eye, which is a primary symptom of glaucoma¹

1. Impaired thinking, problem-solving skills and memory¹
2. Reduced balance and coordination¹
3. Increased risk of heart attack¹
4. Heightened risk of chronic cough and respiratory infections¹
5. Potential for hallucinations and withdrawal symptoms¹
6. Marijuana smoke contains 50%-70% more carcinogenic hydrocarbons than tobacco smoke and has the potential to cause cancer of the lungs and respiratory tract¹