Marijuana: Definition, Uses, Addiction, Effects

Marijuana refers to a compound derived from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plants and contains primary psychoactive compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 9% of marijuana users develop a marijuana use disorder, and this number increases to 17% for those who start using during adolescence.

Marijuana is used for recreational purposes, providing relaxation and euphoria, and medicinal purposes, particularly for managing pain, nausea, and anxiety. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that 5.8 million people aged 12 or older in the U.S. used marijuana daily or nearly daily in 2021.

Marijuana leads to cannabis use disorder in some individuals, especially with frequent use. NIDA highlights that young people are especially vulnerable, with approximately 30% of marijuana users aged 12-17 developing marijuana use disorder when using regularly.

Marijuana use causes notable effects on health, such as cognitive impairments, chronic bronchitis, and a reduction in IQ among adolescent users. As highlighted in “Effects of Marijuana on Health” by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2021), marijuana leads to respiratory issues and mental health disorders.

Marijuana is explored in addiction treatment and recovery, where it serves as an alternative to more dangerous substances like opioids. However, its use in recovery is controversial due to its potential for dependency.

Treatment for marijuana addiction includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET), which help individuals reduce use and cope with triggers. The Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS), managed by SAMHSA, reveals that in 2020, marijuana accounted for 16.7% of all substance abuse treatment admissions in the U.S., making it one of the leading substances requiring intervention.

What is Marijuana in Medical Terms?

Marijuana, in medical terms, refers to cannabis sativa, which contains cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These active compounds are responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects and therapeutic properties. 

THC induces the mind-altering effects commonly associated with marijuana, while CBD is non-intoxicating and widely recognized for its potential benefits in managing conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and anxiety.

Marijuana is classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law in the United States, indicating a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. This classification has fueled ongoing debates as research has increasingly highlighted marijuana’s therapeutic applications in areas such as cancer-related nausea, multiple sclerosis, and severe epilepsy syndromes.

According to a 2021 report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), over 48.2 million Americans reported using marijuana in the past year, making it the most commonly used illicit drug in the country.

What is the Difference Between Hemp, CBD, Hash, and Marijuana?

The difference between hemp, CBD, hash, and marijuana is their THC levels and use. However, they are all cannabis derivatives. Hemp contains very low THC levels and is used for industrial products, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound used for therapeutic purposes, and hash is a concentrated form of cannabis resin with a higher THC content than typical marijuana.

The differences between hemp, CBD, hash, and marijuana are explained below:

• Hemp: Derived from the cannabis sativa plant, hemp contains minimal THC (less than 0.3%) and is used primarily for industrial products like textiles, paper, and biofuels. Legal in most states under federal law, hemp is not psychoactive.
• CBD: Also derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound with a wide range of therapeutic uses, including pain relief and anxiety reduction. Legal in many areas if derived from hemp, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
• Hashish: A concentrated form of cannabis resin, hash has higher levels of THC compared to regular marijuana and is used for recreational and medicinal purposes. Its legal status varies by region, but it is typically illegal in many places due to its higher psychoactive content.
• Marijuana: Marijuana is derived from the cannabis plant and contains higher levels of THC than hemp or CBD. It is widely used both recreationally and medicinally, although its legal status is inconsistent across the United States and other parts of the world.

Why Do People Use Marijuana?

People use marijuana for various reasons, both recreational and medicinal. Recreationally, marijuana is used for its ability to induce euphoria, a feeling of intense happiness or pleasure, and relaxation, which helps users unwind and manage stress. 

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 48.2 million Americans reported using marijuana in 2021, with many individuals seeking its psychoactive effects to enhance social experiences or relax after a long day.

Medically, marijuana is used for a range of therapeutic purposes. It has shown effectiveness in providing pain relief for conditions like chronic pain, cancer-related discomfort, and multiple sclerosis. 

Additionally, marijuana has been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety, with some individuals using it as an alternative treatment when other medications are ineffective. The increasing acceptance of marijuana in medical treatments has led to its use for anxiety disorders, epilepsy, and even insomnia.

What is the Difference Between Recreational and Medicinal Marijuana Use?

The difference between recreational and medicinal marijuana is their THC levels and intended effects. Recreational marijuana contains higher levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that induces euphoria and provides a “high” sensation sought after for social or relaxation purposes. 

In contrast, medicinal marijuana is formulated with a balanced ratio of THC and CBD, focusing on therapeutic benefits such as pain relief and symptom management for conditions like anxiety and chronic illness. 

According to a study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 2.5 million Americans use medical marijuana to treat conditions like chronic pain, cancer, and epilepsy, reflecting the increasing acceptance of its therapeutic uses.

Legalization for recreational and medicinal marijuana varies greatly. As of 2021, 36 states have legalized medicinal marijuana, while 18 states allow recreational use, each with differing regulations. 

Medicinal marijuana requires a prescription and is prescribed for specific conditions, while recreational marijuana is available in legal states to adults without a medical prescription. This divergence in legalization reflects ongoing debates on the health implications and societal impact of marijuana, with varying regulatory frameworks across the United States.

Is Marijuana a Drug?

Yes, marijuana is a drug. It is a psychoactive substance derived from the cannabis plant, primarily used for its mind-altering effects due to its active compound, THC. Marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law, meaning it has a high potential for addiction and no accepted medical use at the federal level. 

Studies from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2020 have shown that regular use leads to cannabis use disorder, with about 9% of users developing dependence, with the number increasing to 17% for those who start using during adolescence.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

Yes, marijuana is addictive. The DSM-5 identifies cannabis use disorder as a condition characterized by the compulsive use of marijuana despite adverse consequences. This disorder is marked by the development of tolerance, which means that over time, users require larger quantities of marijuana to achieve the same effects. 

As marijuana is used more frequently, dependence occurs, where individuals experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, sleep disturbances, and cravings when they attempt to cut down or stop using. 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that the potency of marijuana has significantly increased over the past decades, with THC concentrations rising from about 4% in the 1990s to over 15% today. 

The addictive potential of marijuana is attributed to THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, which activates the brain’s reward system by releasing dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. This chemical interaction creates a reinforcing cycle, encouraging users to continue using marijuana, even when it negatively impacts their daily lives.

Why Is Marijuana Considered a Gateway Drug?

Marijuana is considered a gateway drug because it increases the likelihood of using stronger substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and other illicit drugs. Early use of marijuana alters brain development, which makes individuals more susceptible to engaging in risky behaviors, including the use of harder substances. 

Marijuana is the drug most teenagers begin. However, its use amplifies the chance of looking for stronger drugs and, subsequently, dependency. 

A study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that adolescents who used marijuana were significantly more likely to try and develop dependence on other substances, such as cocaine and heroin, compared to those who did not use marijuana. 

This pattern is thought to occur due to the way marijuana affects the brain’s reward system, potentially creating a pathway to further drug experimentation. Although not all marijuana users will progress to using other drugs, its status as a gateway drug is a correlation between early marijuana use and later substance abuse.

What Are the Warning Signs of Marijuana Dependence?

The warning signs of marijuana dependence are increased tolerance, where larger amounts are needed to achieve the same effects, and persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to quit using marijuana. According to research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), these signs point to cannabis use disorder, which is a key indicator of marijuana dependence.

The warning signs of marijuana dependence are explained below:

• Increased Tolerance: This occurs when users need to consume larger amounts of marijuana to achieve the same desired effect. Marijuana causes this by altering the brain’s chemistry, particularly in the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, appetite, and pleasure. Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the effects of THC, leading to diminished response and the need for more of the substance.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Symptoms like irritability, difficulty sleeping, and cravings occur when marijuana use is reduced or stopped. These symptoms arise because the brain has become dependent on THC, and without it, the body struggles to regulate mood and sleep patterns, resulting in discomfort and a strong desire to use again.
• Behavioral Changes: Increased use despite negative effects, such as impaired social, academic, or work performance, indicates dependence. Marijuana’s psychoactive effects, particularly THC, impair cognitive functions like memory and decision-making, leading to difficulties in daily responsibilities and maintaining relationships.
• Persistent Desire or Unsuccessful Efforts to Quit: This refers to a user’s inability to stop using marijuana, even when they recognize it negatively impacts their life. Marijuana creates a psychological dependency due to the reward system in the brain, reinforcing continued use as the user seeks the pleasurable effects.

How Is Marijuana Abused?

Marijuana is abused by heavy use, where individuals consume large amounts regularly and combine marijuana with other substances, such as alcohol or tobacco, to enhance the effects. This pattern occurs as individuals seek intensified euphoria or relaxation, particularly in social settings. 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) shows that individuals who mix marijuana with alcohol or other drugs increase the risks of impaired judgment, accidents, and other health issues. 

Additionally, using marijuana in conjunction with substances like opioids has been linked to an increased potential for overdose due to the combined depressant effects on the central nervous system. 

The abuse of marijuana often involves escalating use, where individuals use it more frequently to counteract tolerance or turn to more potent forms of cannabis, such as concentrates, to achieve a more potent high.

What Does Marijuana Withdrawal Look Like?

Marijuana withdrawal looks like irritability, sleep disturbances, cravings, and anxiety. When individuals stop using marijuana, their brain experiences a disruption in the balance of neurotransmitters, leading to irritability as they struggle to regulate their mood. 

Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or vivid dreams, occur because THC influences the brain’s production of melatonin, which is vital for regulating sleep cycles. As the brain adjusts to the absence of THC, users experience intense cravings due to the reward system’s dependence on the substance to release dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. 

Additionally, anxiety increases as marijuana has sedative effects on the central nervous system, and withdrawal removes that calming influence. According to research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 30% of regular marijuana users experience withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit, which include irritability, sleep disturbances, and cravings. 

These withdrawal symptoms are not life-threatening but significantly impact daily functioning and well-being.

What Are Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Marijuana?

The short-term and long-term effects of marijuana are euphoria, impaired memory, anxiety, and potential respiratory issues. Short-term effects include immediate euphoria, altered perception, and impaired memory, while long-term use leads to chronic issues such as respiratory problems, cognitive impairments, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

Short-term effects of marijuana include:

• Euphoria: Marijuana causes an intense feeling of well-being or happiness due to the stimulation of the brain’s reward system by THC, which increases dopamine production. This psychoactive compound directly triggers the brain’s pleasure centers, leading to the euphoric “high” that users experience. According to research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), THC directly affects cannabinoid receptors in the brain, leading to pleasurable sensations.
• Impaired Memory: Marijuana disrupts the functioning of the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory formation and retrieval. This leads to short-term memory loss, making it harder for users to retain or recall information.
• Altered Perception: THC modifies sensory processing, resulting in distorted perceptions of time, space, and colors. This occurs as THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, altering sensory signals and cognitive functions.
• Increased Heart Rate: Weed increases heart rate by as much as 100 beats per minute, putting added stress on the heart. This is particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, as the strain on the heart is dangerous. National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) states that this increased heart rate may pose a risk to individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
• Anxiety and Paranoia: Marijuana overstimulates brain receptors, causing feelings of anxiety, panic, or paranoia, particularly at higher doses. This reaction is more common in new users or those who are susceptible to anxiety disorders. According to the American Psychological Association (2017), anxiety and panic attacks are more common in inexperienced users or those with a predisposition to mental health issues.

Long-term effects of marijuana include:

• Cognitive Impairment: Long-term marijuana use, especially among adolescents, can result in lasting cognitive impairments such as diminished memory, attention, and learning abilities. Persistent marijuana use during adolescence is linked to a decline in IQ and cognitive function.
• Chronic Bronchitis: Regular marijuana smoking introduces harmful combustion byproducts like tar into the lungs, leading to inflammation and chronic mucus production. This can result in conditions like chronic bronchitis, similar to the damage caused by smoking tobacco. A study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) highlights that marijuana smoke contains many of the same harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke, contributing to respiratory issues like bronchitis.
• Mental Health Disorders: Long-term marijuana use increases the risk of developing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, as the psychoactive effects of THC can exacerbate underlying mental health vulnerabilities. According to the American Psychological Association (2017), heavy marijuana use worsens underlying mental health issues, especially in those predisposed to these conditions.
• Dependence: Prolonged marijuana use often leads to tolerance and dependence. Users may require more frequent or larger doses to achieve the same effect, and withdrawal symptoms can emerge when usage is reduced or stopped. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020), about 30% of regular marijuana users develop cannabis use disorder, characterized by compulsive use and the inability to quit despite negative consequences.

How Does Marijuana Affect the Brain?

Marijuana affects the brain by altering cognitive functions through interactions with THC, which binds to cannabinoid receptors in key regions like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. 

The hippocampus, responsible for memory formation, experiences disruptions when THC activates the CB1 receptors, leading to short-term memory impairments. In the prefrontal cortex, which controls decision-making, impulse control, and higher cognitive functions, THC’s effect results in altered judgment and decreased cognitive flexibility, as THC interferes with neurotransmitter release, particularly dopamine. 

The American Psychological Association (2017) emphasizes that these cognitive impairments are more pronounced in adolescents whose brains are still developing. As THC accumulates in the brain, regular use leads to long-term deficits in attention, memory, and learning. 

This disruption of critical cognitive processes is linked to the development of cannabis use disorder and other mental health issues over time.

Is Marijuana a Hallucinogen?

Yes, marijuana has hallucinogenic properties at high doses due to the psychoactive effects of THC, which alter perception, mood, and sensory experiences. However, marijuana is not technically classified as a hallucinogen, as its primary effects are more aligned with euphoria, relaxation, and cognitive impairment rather than producing vivid, distorted perceptions typical of substances like LSD or psilocybin.

How Can Marijuana Trigger Mental Health Conditions?

Marijuana triggers mental health conditions by altering brain chemistry, particularly through the interaction of THC with neurotransmitters like dopamine, which exacerbate underlying vulnerabilities. 

Individuals with a genetic predisposition to mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or psychosis, are at a heightened risk of developing these disorders with marijuana use, especially when high THC levels are involved. 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2021) also reports that early use of marijuana, particularly during adolescence, accelerates the onset of psychotic disorders in those with a family history of mental illness.

How Does Marijuana Use Contribute to Other Substance Dependences?

Marijuana contributes to other substance dependence by lowering inhibitions, which increases the likelihood of experimenting with stronger substances such as alcohol, opioids, or nicotine. 

As a gateway drug, marijuana use, especially at a young age, increases the chances of later developing dependence on other substances. According to a study by L. J. Mitchell titled “Marijuana Use and Its Relation to Other Substance Use in Adolescents,” published in Psychiatry Research (2018), adolescents who initiate marijuana use are more likely to develop dependence on substances like alcohol and nicotine. 

The study found that individuals who began using marijuana in their teens had a fourfold increase in the likelihood of later alcohol dependence and a threefold higher risk of nicotine use compared to those who did not use marijuana.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Medical Marijuana Use?

The possible side effects of medical marijuana use are dry mouth, dizziness, and increased heart rate. According to research published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), these side effects occur due to the psychoactive effects of THC and vary depending on dosage and individual tolerance levels.

The possible side effects of medical marijuana use are explained below:

• Dizziness: A common side effect of medical marijuana use caused by THC’s impact on the central nervous system. Dizziness occurs due to changes in blood pressure and blood flow regulation.
• Fatigue: THC causes sedation, leading to feelings of tiredness or lethargy. This side effect is seen in higher doses or when using marijuana with a high THC content.
• Increased Appetite: Known as “the munchies,” marijuana triggers hunger due to THC’s action on the brain’s appetite-regulating centers. This has a frequent effect on both recreational and medical marijuana users.
• Dry Mouth: Also referred to as “cottonmouth,” dry mouth is a common side effect. This occurs as THC affects saliva production and leads to discomfort.
• Potential Dependence Risks: With long-term use, there is a risk of developing cannabis use disorder, characterized by withdrawal symptoms and cravings. According to research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 9% of those who use marijuana develop dependence, and this risk increases with early or frequent use.

What Are the Roles of Marijuana in Addiction Treatment and Recovery?

The roles of marijuana in addiction treatment and recovery include harm reduction, pain management, and serving as an alternative therapy in certain recovery models. In harm reduction, marijuana is sometimes used to replace more dangerous substances like alcohol or opioids, providing a safer option for individuals looking to reduce risk. 

Cannabis, particularly CBD, helps manage withdrawal symptoms in patients detoxing from substances such as opioids, thus easing the process of recovery. In pain management, medical marijuana is prescribed for chronic pain conditions, especially when traditional medications, like opioids, present dependency risks. 

Additionally, marijuana has been explored as an alternative therapy to reduce cravings in patients recovering from addiction, particularly for individuals who struggle with managing anxiety and stress during recovery. 

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), cannabis use supports recovery by acting as a harm-reduction tool, although it is still controversial due to its potential for misuse.

Why Is Marijuana a Challenge in Addiction Recovery?

Marijuana poses challenges in addiction recovery because it potentially leads to relapse and undermines sobriety by reactivating addictive behaviors. For individuals recovering from substance use disorders, marijuana use triggers cravings for other substances, making it difficult to maintain abstinence from drugs like alcohol, opioids, or stimulants. 

Using marijuana, particularly with high THC content, exacerbates the risk of relapse by reinforcing patterns of substance-seeking behavior, as it creates psychological dependence. Additionally, marijuana interferes with emotional regulation and coping skills developed during recovery, thus hindering progress. 

According to a study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), individuals in recovery who use marijuana are at a higher risk of engaging in other forms of substance abuse, which further complicates their treatment outcomes.

How to Address Marijuana Addiction?

To address marijuana addiction, it is important to provide comprehensive therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to address underlying triggers and promote healthier coping mechanisms. Additionally, integrating support groups and ensuring access to resources like medical professionals help individuals maintain sobriety and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Ways to address marijuana addiction are explained below:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective therapeutic interventions for marijuana addiction. It helps individuals recognize and challenge the thoughts and behaviors that lead to marijuana use. By identifying triggers and changing negative patterns of thinking, patients develop coping strategies and gain better control over their substance use.
• Support Groups (e.g., Marijuana Anonymous): Support groups are vital in the recovery process, offering a sense of community and shared experience. These groups provide individuals with the opportunity to connect with others who understand their struggles, share coping strategies, and receive emotional support, which is critical for long-term recovery.
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): MET is a short-term, directive intervention that enhances an individual’s motivation to reduce or stop their marijuana use. By focusing on self-motivation and the discrepancy between a person’s current behavior and long-term goals, MET effectively encourages positive behavior changes in marijuana users.
• Contingency Management: Contingency management is an evidence-based treatment approach that provides tangible rewards to individuals for maintaining sobriety. This method is used to reinforce positive behaviors, such as staying drug-free, and has shown promise in treating marijuana dependence, particularly when combined with other therapies.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for marijuana addiction, MAT are useful for managing withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression. Medications such as anti-depressants or anti-anxiety drugs are prescribed to alleviate these symptoms, which may indirectly support recovery efforts from marijuana use.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), marijuana addiction treatment in the U.S. has demonstrated varying levels of effectiveness, with the most success coming from comprehensive approaches that include therapy and support networks. 

Although specific MAT drugs for marijuana addiction are not currently available, integrating behavioral therapies like CBT and MET with other treatment options has shown promising results in reducing marijuana use and helping individuals maintain long-term recovery.

Is Marijuana Legal in North Carolina?

No, marijuana is not fully legal in North Carolina. The state has legalized the medical use of marijuana under the Compassionate Care Act. Still, it is highly restricted and only available for certain medical conditions like epilepsy and terminal illnesses. 

Recreational marijuana use remains illegal, and penalties for possession can include fines and imprisonment, depending on the amount. According to the North Carolina General Assembly (2021), the Compassionate Care Act allows for the limited use of CBD oil containing less than 0.9% THC for qualifying patients.

Who Should Not Use Marijuana?

People who should not use marijuana include those with a history of mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as marijuana exacerbates symptoms. Additionally, individuals who are pregnant, adolescents, or those with a substance use disorder should avoid marijuana due to the potential risks of dependency and developmental impacts.

People who should not use marijuana are:

• Pregnant Women: Marijuana use during pregnancy leads to developmental issues in the fetus, including low birth weight and developmental delays. Studies show that the THC in marijuana can cross the placenta, affecting brain development in the unborn child and leading to cognitive and behavioral problems later in life.
• Individuals with a Family History of Psychosis: People with a genetic predisposition to psychosis, such as schizophrenia, are at higher risk of developing mental health issues from marijuana use. High THC levels have been linked to an increased risk of triggering psychotic episodes, especially in those with a family history of these conditions.

Those with Dependency Issues: Marijuana is addictive, and individuals with a history of substance use disorders are at greater risk of developing a cannabis use disorder. Regular marijuana use can alter brain chemistry and increase tolerance, leading to dependence, which makes it more difficult for these individuals to maintain sobriety and achieve recovery goals.