Marijuana

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Information about marijuana



Marijuana
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Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used primarily for medical or recreational purposes. The main psychoactive component of marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the 483 known compounds in the plant, including at least 65 other cannabinoids.

History[edit | edit source]

The use of cannabis as a drug has been documented as far back as 2800 BC in ancient China. It was used for its psychoactive effects and as a medicine. In the 20th century, marijuana became a subject of legal restrictions and was classified as an illegal substance in many countries.

Medical Uses[edit | edit source]

Marijuana is used in the treatment of various medical conditions, including chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. It is also used to alleviate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Cannabinoids[edit | edit source]

Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds found in marijuana. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects, while CBD is known for its potential therapeutic benefits without causing a "high."

Recreational Use[edit | edit source]

Recreational use of marijuana is widespread and involves smoking, vaporizing, or ingesting the plant. The effects of marijuana can include relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, and increased appetite.

Legal Status[edit | edit source]

The legal status of marijuana varies by country and region. Some countries have legalized its use for medical and/or recreational purposes, while others continue to enforce strict prohibition laws. In the United States, marijuana is legal for recreational use in several states, while others permit its use only for medical purposes.

Adverse Effects[edit | edit source]

While marijuana is considered to have a relatively low risk of addiction, it can lead to dependence in some users. Adverse effects may include impaired short-term memory, altered judgment, and in high doses, paranoia or anxiety.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD