Marijuana is a drug that has created a considerable amount of controversy. There are people who believe that marijuana is a “wonder” drug that helps people manage pain due to diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and fibromyalgia among other conditions. Additionally, marijuana has also shown promise in reducing the effects of anxiety, epilepsy, MS and reduces the effects of diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Tourette’s.
There are also people who believe that marijuana is a drug that can be abused and can lead people down the path of addiction. This article will explore some facts of marijuana abuse, addiction, and some possible dangers of the drug.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
The center of controversy surrounding marijuana is if people can become addicted to the drug. The mind-altering substance in marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). When smoked, THC passes from the lungs into the bloodstream, then towards the brain. When compared to other drugs, the absorption process is rather slow with people feeling high 30 minutes to one hour after administration.
Marijuana activates certain receptors in the brain, and it causes mood changes, impaired coordination and movement, and impaired memory and thinking. Those who smoke or ingest the drug may build up a tolerance to it over time. This can lead to dependence or addiction issues. When people stop using marijuana removed, they can experience withdrawal symptoms.
Health Risks
While there is considerable debate regarding marijuana use and addiction, there are considerable health risks in people who choose to use the drug which includes the following:
- Risk of lung cancer
- Decreased energy
- Increased heart rate
- Anxiety and depression
- Increased risk of heart attack
Other Risks
For those who use marijuana, they frequently combine the drug with other substances—and some can be dangerous. For instance, people may use marijuana in conjunction with anticoagulants or anti-inflammatory drugs including Coumadin, Plavix, and Aleve. This combination may increase a person’s risk of excessive bleeding. Since marijuana slows bodily movements and impairs brain functioning, people are at greater risk of injuring themselves and excessive bleeding.
Another possible combination is marijuana and drugs such as insulin. Since marijuana may alter one’s sugar levels, it can pose greater risks for diabetics. If a person is taking insulin and using marijuana or has a medical marijuana prescription, they need to seek the professional guidance and care of a doctor so they may monitor blood sugar levels and adjust doses accordingly.
Additionally, people may also be combining marijuana and benzodiazepines as well as prescription opioids and alcohol. The combination of these substances results in extreme drowsiness. In these circumstances, extreme drowsiness can lead to risky behavior and an increase in serious accidents.
Smoking marijuana can also increase anxiety. It has been linked to chronic coughing and may worse to asthma. Illegal purchasing can contain other drugs and unsafe chemicals. Marijuana smokers inhale the smoke longer in their lungs which could increase the risk of cancer. Second-Hand smoke has more tar and cancer-causing chemicals than cigarettes.
Many people think that Marijuana is a natural healing drug that can cause no harm. This is wrong! Marijuana is addictive!
Marijuana Addiction – 7 facts about in the video
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While marijuana is seen as a harmless drug, it can cause physical and psychological harm. If you or a loved one need help in overcoming a dependence to marijuana, call Hawaii Island Recovery toll-free today. We offer individualized treatment plans that will give you the tools
and support you need to break your dependence issues.
