Cannabis

Cannabis is a depressant although in larger doses can have a mild hallucinogenic effect Three main forms Marijuana – dried leaves and flowers from the plant Hashish – resin Hash oil – a thick oily extract extracted from the resin

Immediate and long term effects Immediate effect Long term effects Small Dose - Feeling unusually well or happy - Increased appetite and heart rate - Loss of inhibitions and concentration - Reddened eyes - Overall reduction in concentration - Increased risk of bronchitis, lung cancer and respiratory diseases - Change in motivation - Loss of energy - Decreased concentration, memory and learning abilities

Immediate effect Long term effects Large Dose - Confusion Hallucinations Detachment from reality Anxiety or panic Feelings of excitement Paranoia Vomiting - Lower sperm count - Reduced sex drive - Irregular menstrual cycles - Psychotic behaviour

The age at which cannabis use begins and its frequency of use are two significant factors The earlier a person begins cannabis use and the more heavily it is used the more likely the person is to continue to use and develop problems from heavy use Heavy use is defined as more than once a week