Drug abuse

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Drug abuse is the use of illicit drugs, or the abuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs. The abuse of legitimate drugs (prescription or over-the-counter) can happen when people use the drugs in a manner or in quantities other than directed, or for purposes that are not legitimate. See also drug abuse first aid and drug abuse and dependence.

Heroin abuse; Substance abuse; Marijuana abuse; Illicit drug abuse; Narcotic abuse; Cocaine abuse; Hallucinogen abuse; PCP abuse; LSD abuse

MARIJUANA (also called "grass," "pot," "reefer," "joint," "hashish," "cannabis," "weed," and "Mary Jane")

About 2 in 5 Americans have used marijuana at least once. Approximately 10% of the population uses it on a regular basis. Next to tobacco, and alcohol in some areas, marijuana is the most popular substance young people use regularly.

The source of marijuana is the hemp plant (cannabis sativa). The active ingredients are THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and other cannabinoids, which are found in the leaves and flowering shoots of the plant.

Hashish is a resinous substance, taken from the tops of female plants. It contains the highest concentration of THC.

The drug dose delivered from any particular preparation of marijuana varies greatly. The concentration of THC may vary as much as a hundred fold, due to diluting or contaminating materials.

The effects of marijuana may be felt from seconds to several minutes after inhaling the smoke (from a joint or a pipe), or within 30 - 60 minutes after ingestion (eating foods containing marijuana, such as "hash brownies").

Because the effects are felt almost immediately by the smoker, further inhalation can be stopped at any time to regulate the effect. In contrast, those eating marijuana experience effects that are slower to develop, cumulative (they add up), longer-lasting, and more variable, making unpleasant reactions more likely.

The primary effects of marijuana are behavioral, because the drug affects the central nervous system (CNS). Popular use of marijuana started because of its effects of euphoria (feeling of joy), relaxation, and increased visual, auditory (hearing), and taste perceptions that may occur with low-to-moderate doses. Most users also report an increase in their appetite ("the munchies").