Sunday, February 13, 2011

Harmful Effects of Marijuana

Marijuana, also known as Cannabis, is one of the illegal drugs. The main chemical component of the drug is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This binds to the cannabinoid receptors that are present throughout nervous system and other parts of the body. The higher concentration of the receptors are present in brain, which include areas, responsible for pleasure, memory, concentration, thought, sense, time perception, movement coordination, pain and appetite. So it has a vast range of effects with regard to the psychic issues. Certain effects include: impaired short-term memory, altered judgment and decision-making, increased heart rate, anxiety, and altered mood. Certain mental disorders such as schizophrenia may also be caused due to Marijuana. The drug may increase the rate of heart by 20-100% which simultaneously increases the risk of heart attack. Exposure to marijuana may result in alteration of brain development especially in areas functional to reward, mood and executive function. Long term effects of marijuana use causes respiratory problems such as bronchitis and chronic cough. It may also result in the risk of addiction and psychosis in vulnerable individuals. Addiction to marijuana leads to serious problems including anxiety, irritability, craving, and sleeping problems.


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