Facts on Marijuana

• NCJ Number: 234286
• Author(s): Douglas B. Marlowe, J.D., Ph.D.
• Date Published: December 2010
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: National Assoc of Drug Court Professionals
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview; Instructional Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: From "Need To Know," December 2010

Annotation

This document briefly reviews the scientific evidence on the effects of marijuana.

Abstract

Research has determined that individuals who have used marijuana at least five times have a 20-30 percent likelihood of becoming addicted to the drug, and those who use it regularly have a 40 percent likelihood of becoming addicted. The hallmark feature of physical addiction is the experience of uncomfortable or painful withdrawal symptoms whenever levels of the substance decline in the blood stream. A second hallmark feature of addiction is psychosocial dysfunction that results from repeated use of the substance. The most commonly diagnosed symptoms of psychosocial dysfunction among marijuana addicts include persistent procrastination, negative or guilty feelings, low productivity, low self-confidence, interpersonal or family conflict, memory problems, and financial difficulties. Regarding medical harm, smoked marijuana has the potential to be as, or more, harmful than smoking cigarettes. In addition, a person's risk of a heart attack is increased four-fold during the first hour after smoking marijuana. Although marijuana has a high abuse potential and no recognized medical benefits, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a particular ingredient within marijuana (THC) in a nonsmoked form for certain medical indications, such as for treatment of nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite. Recent studies have also supported its use in treating chronic neuropathic pain. More research is needed in order to isolate the potential therapeutic effects of specific compounds within marijuana, as well as to determine how to administer those compounds in a manner that is medically safe. Regarding marijuana's impact on crime, two recent meta-analyses have concluded that marijuana use during adolescence or young adulthood significantly predicts later involvement in criminal activity and criminal arrests. Recommendations are offered to drug court staff regarding the management of clients who consume marijuana. 21 references