Text File | 1992-01-24 | 1.3 KB | 9 lines | [04] ASCII Text (0x0000)
Marijuana, commonly known as Pot, is a drug made from the flower tops of hemp plants. It is usually smoked in a cigarette, producing a mild intoxication. It can be used both as a stimulant and a depressant.
The strength of marijuana varies, and thus its corresponding effects on the body may vary widely. Since marijuana is made from a plant, climate, soil conditions, and the time of harvest determine the potency of the marijuana.
There are some indications that marijuana use reduces resistance to disease because the drug interferes with the body's natural immune processes. Marijuana can also adversely affect chromosomes, which are responsible for the transmission of hereditary characteristics. Therefore, marijuana use by pregnant women endangers unborn children.
Marijuana use doesn't lead to physical dependence as in some drugs; however, extended use can cause psychological dependence. Furthermore, a person with psychological problems may have intense emotional disturbances after taking marijuana.
The major risk of taking marijuana is that it can lead to stronger, more addictive drugs. Since a marijuana user can do without the drug for long periods of time without adverse effects (withdrawl or depression), he or she may become reckless after extended use and begin experimenting with heroin, morphine, or LSD.
