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FACTS ABOUT MARIJUANA

1. Marijuana is from the hemp plant. The active ingredient is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It can be smoked or chewed as hashish.
2. The amount of THC varies greatly depending on the part of the plant used, the genetics, and how it is raised.
3. Depending on the amount, marijuana causes a change in mood, perception and motivation. It reduces mental abilities, reaction time and tracking behavior. Driving and learning are obviously affected.
4. Marijuana also may increase sexual pleasure, hunger or panic. In large doses it can cause psychosis--the inability to know reality. It can make schizophrenia worse but does not cause it.
5. Prolonged use is associated with apathy, dropping out of school, stealing and violence.
6. When smoked it is more irritating to the lungs and more likely to cause cancer than tobacco.
7. When a pregnant woman uses it, marijuana can harm her unborn baby seriously. In men it lowers the quality and number of sperm.
8. Teens who smoke marijuana are more likely to runaway from home, steal, skip school and be violent.
9. Driving under the influence is comparable to alcohol.
10. Withdrawal causes restlessness, irritability, agitation and insomnia. It is similar to nicotine withdrawal. Medical care is not necessary for withdrawal unless other drugs or illness are involved.