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How Marijuana Effects the Body

Monday, September 28, 2009
 

Instructions

Definition

  • Step 1:
    The main psychoactive compound in marijuana is THC, which stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.

Chemistry

  • Step 1:
    When marijuana is ingested, THC produces an effect by traveling through the bloodstream to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which control memory, coordination, movement and learning.

Effects

  • Step 1:
    Smoked marijuana produces an effect on the body within minutes, and the effects may last for up to three hours. When marijuana is eaten in food, it produces a longer-lasting effect that comes on more slowly.

Psychological Effects

  • Step 1:
    Marijuana causes a temporary alteration of cognition, mood and sensory perception in the user. Marijuana may produce a euphoric feeling in some users. Others may feel anxious or paranoid. Short-term memory and the ability to concentrate may be temporarily diminished by marijuana use.

Physical Effects

  • Step 1:
    Marijuana increases the heart rate of the user. Some users may experience dry mouth, bloodshot eyes or both. Coordination and motor skills may also be impaired.

Addiction

  • Step 1:
    Long-term marijuana users may develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring increasing amounts to yield an effect. Some long-term users may develop a psychological dependence on marijuana and experience irritability or insomnia without it.

How Marijuana Effects the Body Provided by eHow.com
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