1. Marijuana Product of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main active chemical in marijuana
THC Affects receptors in the brain

2. Marijuana use
Joint- users roll loose marijuana into a cigarette called a joint
Bong- users smoke marijuana through a water pipe called a bong
Blunt- users roll marijuana in a cigar form called a blunt
Mixed into food or tea

3. Marijuana street names
Pot
Weed
Grass
Bud
Smoke

4. THC delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
Main mind altering ingredient in marijuana
Absorbed by most tissues and organs
Primarily fatty tissues
Brain and reproductive organs
Can be stored in these organs for up to one month after the marijuana is originally taken

5. Marijuana statistics
National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that more than 50% or all high school seniors have tried marijuana.
Marijuana is 5 to 10 times more powerful today than the 1960's
Tar content of marijuana smoke is at least 50% higher than that of tobacco smoke.
Developing lung disease is greater from prolonged marijuana use than cigarettes

6. Short term effects of marijuana use
Feeling of euphoria
Increase heartbeat
Food craving
Reddening of the eyes
Irritation of the lungs
Distortion of space, time, and memory

7. Long term effects of marijuana use
Impaired thinking
Impaired reading comprehension
Impaired verbal and arithmetic skills
Apathetic attitude

8. Marijuana use on reproductive organs
Male and female- reproductive processes are impaired. May cause temporary loss of fertility.
Female- irregular menstrual cycles
Increase the risk of birth defects and miscarriages if the mother uses the drug during pregnancy
Children born to mothers using marijuana exhibit neurological problems

9. Effects of marijuana use on the brain
THC acts on cannabinoid receptors found in parts of the brain that influence :
Pleasure
Memory
Thought
Concentration
Sensory and time perception
Coordinated movement

10. Marijuana effects on the heart
Can cause the heart beat to increase 20 to 50 beats per minute
Lowers blood pressure
Combination of low blood pressure and increased heart rate makes risk of heart attack four times greater in marijuana users

11. Marijuana effects on the lungs
More frequent chest illness
Increased risk of lung infection
Obstructed airways

12. Marijuana vs cigarettes
Marijuana contains more cancer causing ingredients than tobacco
Marijuana smokers inhale deeper and longer so they are exposed to cancer causing ingredients longer
Five joints per week equals one pack of cigarettes
Marijuana effects are greater when used with other drugs