Is Marijuana Bad for You? The Good, the Bad, and the Hazy

Understanding Marijuana Use

Marijuana use can have both short-term and long-term effects on individuals. It's important to understand these effects in order to make informed decisions about its use.

Short-Term Effects

The short-term effects of using marijuana can vary among individuals. Some of the commonly reported effects include disruptions in brain areas responsible for various functions due to the presence of THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. THC in marijuana can activate the brain's reward system, leading to a surge of dopamine that produces the pleasurable "high" sought by recreational users.

When marijuana is smoked, the THC and other chemicals are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs, resulting in almost immediate effects that typically last between 1 to 3 hours. These effects can include:

• Altered perception of time and space
• Impaired coordination and motor skills
• Memory and concentration difficulties
• Increased heart rate
• Bloodshot eyes
• Dry mouth and throat

Consuming marijuana via food or drinks, commonly known as edibles, results in significantly less THC reaching the bloodstream compared to smoking. The effects of edibles are delayed and typically appear after 30 minutes to 1 hour. They can last for many hours, which can lead to unintended consumption of THC if individuals consume more than anticipated [1].

Long-Term Effects

The long-term effects of marijuana use are still a topic of ongoing research. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine conducted a comprehensive review and concluded that there is substantial evidence of an association between marijuana use and the development of mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia and other psychoses.

Additionally, long-term marijuana use has been associated with potential cognitive impairments, such as reduced memory function and lower IQ scores, especially when marijuana use begins in adolescence. However, it's important to note that the magnitude and persistence of these effects can vary among individuals.

Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of marijuana use, as well as how different factors such as frequency and duration of use, dosage, and individual susceptibility may contribute to these effects.

Understanding the short-term and long-term effects of marijuana use is crucial for individuals to make informed decisions about its use. It's important to consider personal health, potential risks, and individual circumstances when evaluating the impact of marijuana use on overall well-being.

Risks and Associations

When discussing the impact of marijuana use, it's important to consider the potential risks and associations that have been identified. Two key areas of concern are mental health risks and dependency and addiction.

Mental Health Risks

Research has shown a statistical association between cannabis use and an increased risk for the development of depressive disorders. The evidence suggests that the risk is small but greater with increased frequency of use. Regular or daily cannabis use is also associated with a small increased risk of developing bipolar disorder. Moreover, heavy cannabis use has been linked to an increased risk of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and death by suicide.

Regular cannabis use has also been associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression, particularly with the use of stronger cannabis like skunk. The link between cannabis and psychosis, including the development of psychotic illnesses like schizophrenia, is not fully understood but reliable evidence shows a connection, especially with the use of higher THC levels in cannabis. Additionally, the risk of developing schizophrenia at an earlier age is increased due to the levels of THC in cannabis.

Dependency and Addiction

Marijuana use can lead to the development of problem use, known as a marijuana use disorder. Recent data suggests that approximately 30% of marijuana users may have some degree of marijuana use disorder. The risk of developing a marijuana use disorder is higher for individuals who start using marijuana before the age of 18, as they are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults.

Marijuana dependence occurs when the brain adapts to large amounts of the drug by reducing production of and sensitivity to its own endocannabinoid neurotransmitters. This leads to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not taken. Estimates suggest that about 9% of people who use marijuana will become dependent on it, with the risk rising to approximately 17% for those who start using in their teens. Symptoms of marijuana withdrawal may include irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and physical discomfort.

It's crucial to understand that marijuana use disorders are often associated with dependence, and frequent users may experience various symptoms upon quitting. Seeking professional help and support can be beneficial for those who are struggling with dependency or addiction to marijuana.

By acknowledging and understanding the potential mental health risks and the risk of dependency and addiction associated with marijuana use, individuals can make informed decisions about their usage and seek appropriate support when necessary.

Impact on Brain Function

Marijuana use has been associated with various effects on brain function, particularly in relation to cognitive impairments and brain development.

Cognitive Impairments

Studies have shown that marijuana use, especially when initiated during adolescence and continued into adulthood, can be linked to declines in IQ. Persistent marijuana use disorder with frequent use starting in adolescence has been associated with a significant decline in IQ points, averaging between 6 to 8 points. These findings suggest that prolonged and heavy marijuana use during crucial developmental stages may have long-lasting effects on cognitive abilities.

Additionally, chronic exposure to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in marijuana, has been shown to accelerate age-related loss of hippocampal neurons. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in learning new information, and structural and functional changes in this brain region have been associated with cognitive impairments in adult rats.

Brain Development

During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant development and maturation. Studies have suggested that regular marijuana use during this critical period can lead to altered brain connectivity and reduced volume in specific brain regions associated with executive functions like memory, learning, and impulse control. These effects have been observed through neuroimaging studies comparing regular marijuana users to non-users.

To better understand the impact of marijuana on adolescent brain development, the National Institutes of Health has initiated the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. This study aims to track a large sample of young Americans from late childhood to early adulthood, utilizing advanced tools and neuroimaging techniques. The goal is to determine the extent to which marijuana and other substances, alone or in combination, affect brain development during adolescence.

It is important to note that research in this area is ongoing, and the long-term effects of marijuana on brain development and cognitive function are still being studied. However, the current evidence suggests that marijuana use, particularly during adolescence, may have detrimental effects on cognitive abilities and brain structure.

Health and Social Consequences

Marijuana use can have various effects on both physical health and social well-being. It is important to understand these consequences in order to make informed decisions about marijuana use.

Physical Health Effects

Marijuana use can impact physical health in several ways. One notable effect is impaired driving ability. Marijuana can slow down responses to sights and sounds, making individuals dangerous drivers. It can also cause sleepiness, distort the sense of time and space, and reduce the ability to adapt to light and dark, all of which can impair driving abilities. The impact is particularly severe at night due to a loss of night vision caused by marijuana use.

Additionally, heavy cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and death by suicide. It's important to recognize and address the potential mental health risks associated with marijuana use.

Social Implications

Marijuana use can also have social implications. Frequent and heavy use of marijuana can lead to the development of a marijuana use disorder, with approximately 30% of marijuana users experiencing some degree of marijuana use disorder. Those who start using marijuana before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults. In 2015, about 4.0 million people in the United States met the diagnostic criteria for a marijuana use disorder, with 138,000 seeking treatment for their marijuana use.

Individuals with marijuana use disorders often experience dependence and may have difficulty quitting or reducing their marijuana use. Withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and physical discomfort, can occur upon cessation of marijuana use. This can have an impact on their personal relationships, education, and work.

Furthermore, regular cannabis use has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and the development of psychotic illnesses like schizophrenia. The link between cannabis and psychosis is not fully understood, but reliable evidence shows a connection, particularly with the use of stronger cannabis strains. Cannabis use can also lead to lower motivation and hallucinations, which can be a sign of psychosis.

Understanding the potential health and social consequences of marijuana use is crucial for making informed decisions about its consumption. It is important to consider these factors and weigh the potential risks before engaging in marijuana use. Seeking support and exploring risk mitigation strategies can also be beneficial for individuals who are using or considering using marijuana.

Factors Influencing Effects

When it comes to the effects of marijuana, several factors can influence the experience and potential consequences. Two significant factors to consider are THC concentration and methods of use.

THC Concentration

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in marijuana. The concentration of THC in cannabis can vary significantly, and higher concentrations can lead to stronger effects on the brain. A study conducted from 2008 to 2017 revealed that the average THC concentration in cannabis samples almost doubled, from 9% to 17%. Furthermore, products from dispensaries can have much higher THC concentrations, with online dispensaries in three states showing an average THC concentration of 22%, ranging from 0% to 45%.

The potency of marijuana is directly related to its THC concentration. The higher the concentration, the more potent the effects can be. It's important to note that the amount of THC in marijuana has increased over the past few decades. This increase raises concerns about the consequences of exposure to high concentrations of THC on the body and brain. Researchers are still studying the full extent of the effects of high THC concentrations and the potential risks of developing marijuana use disorder.

Methods of Use

The method of using marijuana can also impact the experience and potential risks. Some methods, such as dabbing and vaping concentrates, can deliver very high levels of THC to the user. These methods, along with products offering high THC concentrations, raise concerns about the consequences of exposure to such high concentrations on the body and brain.

Different methods of use can affect the onset, duration, and intensity of the effects. Smoking or inhaling marijuana typically results in a faster onset of effects compared to other methods, as the THC is rapidly absorbed by the lungs. Edibles, on the other hand, take longer to take effect but can have a more prolonged and intense impact.

It's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with different methods of use and to make informed decisions. Researchers are still studying the full implications of exposure to high concentrations of THC and the potential consequences on the body and brain. Understanding the THC concentration of the product and choosing the method of use wisely is essential for anyone considering marijuana use.

By considering factors like THC concentration and methods of use, individuals can have a better understanding of the potential effects and risks associated with marijuana. It's important to stay informed and make informed decisions to promote overall well-being and minimize potential harm.

Addressing Concerns

When it comes to marijuana use, it's important to address concerns and take steps to mitigate potential risks. By understanding risk mitigation strategies and seeking support when needed, individuals can make informed decisions about their marijuana use.

Risk Mitigation

Since there are currently no accepted standards to guide individuals on the safe and effective use of cannabis, risk mitigation becomes crucial, especially for therapeutic purposes. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Start with low THC concentrations: Some methods of using marijuana, such as dabbing and vaping concentrates, can deliver very high levels of THC to the user. Exposure to high concentrations of THC raises concerns about the consequences on the body and brain [8]. It's advisable to begin with products that have lower THC concentrations to minimize potential risks.
2. Moderate and responsible use: Practicing moderation and responsible use can help reduce potential negative effects. This includes using marijuana in a controlled manner, avoiding excessive consumption, and being mindful of the frequency of use.
3. Know your limits: Each individual may have different tolerances and sensitivities to marijuana. It's important to understand your personal limits and adjust your consumption accordingly. Listening to your body and being aware of how marijuana affects you can help prevent overconsumption and minimize potential risks.
4. Avoid mixing substances: Mixing marijuana with other substances, such as alcohol or other drugs, can have unpredictable effects and increase the risk of adverse reactions. It's best to avoid combining substances to ensure your safety.

Seeking Support

If you have concerns about your marijuana use or its impact on your health and well-being, seeking support is an important step. Here are some avenues to consider:

1. Healthcare professionals: Consult with healthcare professionals, such as doctors or addiction specialists, who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. They can help assess the potential risks associated with your marijuana use and provide recommendations or interventions if necessary.
2. Support groups: Joining support groups or seeking peer support can offer valuable insights and assistance. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide a supportive environment to discuss concerns, share coping strategies, and obtain advice.
3. Counseling or therapy: Engaging in counseling or therapy can be beneficial for individuals who may be struggling with marijuana use or related mental health concerns. Qualified professionals can provide guidance, tools, and coping mechanisms to help navigate any challenges that arise.

Remember, seeking support is a proactive step towards understanding and addressing any concerns you may have. It's important to prioritize your well-being and make informed decisions that align with your personal health goals.

References

• [1]: https://www.drugfreect.org
• ‍[2]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• ‍[3]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• ‍[4]: https://www.rethink.org
• ‍[5]: https://nida.nih.gov
• ‍[6]: https://nida.nih.gov
• ‍[7]: https://www2.courtinfo.ca.gov