1 in 11 of people who use marijuana at least once will become addicted.
What is it?
Marijuana is a dry, shredded, green and brown mix of flowers, stems, seeds, and leaves of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. The main active chemical in marijuana, also present in other forms of cannabis, is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol). Of the roughly 400 chemicals found in the cannabis plant, THC affects the brain the most.
What else is it called?
- Weed
- Pot
- Reefer
- Chronic
- Dope
- Ganja
How is it used?
- Loose marijuana rolled into a cigarette called a “joint”
- Can be smoked in a water pipe, called a “bong”
- Mixed into food or brewed as tea
- Smoked in cigars called “blunts”
What are the consequences of using it and the possible symptoms?
Marijuana is illegal to use in the state of Maryland. Marijuana for medical use is legal 17 states and Washington, DC, with proper documentation and a legal prescription.
Penalties for possession of marijuana for personal use or possession of paraphernalia include:
- One year in jail
- Up to $1,000 fine
Possession of even a small amount of marijuana with intent to distribute is a felony, punishable by:
- Five years in jail
- Up to $15,000 fine
Signs & Symptoms:
- Impaired memory and concentration
- Distorted perception
- Loss of concentration
- Psychosis
- May cause/increase depression
- Loss of coordination
- Animated behavior
- Sleepiness
- Dilated pupils
- Hallucinations
- May cause irritation for lungs
and respiratory system
