Facts about Marijuana

Marijuana  Cannabis Sativa, the hemp plant  The active ingredient is delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol or THC  THC one of the 400 plus chemicals in the hemp plant

How long will it stay in the body?  Traces of THC for several days  In heavy users traces for weeks.

What happens if you smoke marijuana? the user may likely feel… intoxication dry mouth rapid heartbeat some loss of coordination and balance slower than normal reaction time blood vessels in the eye expand (red eyes) for some, marijuana raises blood pressure slightly and can double the normal heart rate. effects fade, usually after 2 to 3 hours Paranoia Hunger “Munchies” Sometimes Nothing

Short Term Effects/Dangers  hinders short-term memory  effects on perceptions and reaction time  risky sexual behaviors  students may find it hard to study and learn  athletes could find their performance is off

Long Term Effects of Marijuana smoke  all are not yet known  contains some of the same cancer- causing compounds as tobacco  Could contribute to development of head and neck cancer  Regular smokers may develop many of the same breathing problems that tobacco smokers have  Usually inhale more deeply and longer

Does marijuana lead to the use of other drugs? (Gateway Drug)  ver y few you ng peo ple use oth er ille gal dru gs wit hou t first tryi ng mar ijua na.  con tact wit h peo ple wh o are use rs and sell ers of oth er dru gs.

What % of high school student smoke marijuana?

How many teens smoke marijuana?  Contrary to popular belief, most teenagers do not use marijuana.  Only about one in seven 10th graders. 16%

Can people become addicted to marijuana?  Long-term marijuana use leads to addiction in some people.

Interesting Facts  Advancements in plant selection & cultivation has increased the potency.  No known deaths from overdose  THC is found in the blood of more than 30% of fatally injured drivers

Legalization  Prop 215 (1996) legalized marijuana in CA for serious illness –(neurological and movement disorders, nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, glaucoma, and appetite stimulation)

Ways to say “NO”  Say “NO THANKS”  Give a Reason, Fact or Excuse  Walk Away  Change the Subject  Use Humor  Broken Record or Repeated Refusal  Cold Shoulder or Ignore  Avoid the Situation  Strength in Numbers (Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.)