Marijuana

This page is discussing recreational marijuana use. For more information on medical marijuana and substances without THC (CBD products) please talk to your doctor.

WHAT IS MARIJUANA?

Marijuana is the flower from the cannabis plant that has a psychoactive compound called Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Marijuana is processed in different ways and can be consumed through smoking, extracting oils, and can be added to food products. Levels of THC in products vary and due to the different types of marijuana consumption, there are a variety of side effects. The level of THC is significantly higher than marijuana used 25 years ago, which can increase negative health effects and increase the chances of becoming addicted or dependent. Marijuana and the teenage brain are a major concern.

Teens are highly susceptible to using marijuana, especially because it became legal to use recreationally in the State of Arizona, please talk to your teen about marijuana and check out the parent and youth resources tab.

HOW IS IT USED?

Marijuana can be smoked, vaped, eaten (candy, brownies, gummies, etc), or taken orally through pills and oils.

STREET NAMES

Weed, Mary J, Mota, Flower, Bud, Hash, Wax, Hash Oil, Honey Oil

DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

Rolling paper

Bongs

Pipes

Vape pens

Oils

Pill capsules (for oils)

Cannabis flower residue

Lighters

SIGNS THAT SOMEONE IS USING MARIJUANA

Altered senses

Relaxed

Drowsiness

Slow speech

Altered sense of time

Impaired memory

Bloodshot eyes

Increased appetite

Dry mouth

Increased heart rate

Cognitive impairments

Paranoia

Hallucinations

Slowed reflexes and impaired motor skills

HEALTH EFFECTS

*Health effects depend on potency, type of ingestion, frequency, and how much is consumed.

Cough

Respiratory illnesses

Increased risk for heart attack and stroke

Memory issues

Decreased motivation

Anxiety when marijuana is not available

Lower IQ in teenagers

Can heighten other mental health conditions, especially intensifying schizophrenic symptoms

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (cycles of vomiting, nausea, dehydration)

Ready to get Involved?

Organizations and community members involved in SUD/OUD are welcome to join!
Email Yara Castro at info@sosaheal.org or call 520-375-6050 for more information.