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.