What Are Marijuana Abuse and Addiction?
Marijuana refers to the seeds, dried leaves, and
stems of the cannabis
sativa plant. According to the National Institute of Drug
Abuse, marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States.
It is usually smoked in a pipe or a cigarette. It can also be eaten.
The mind-altering ingredient in marijuana is called THC,
which stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. The
amount of THC in marijuana varies. It is common for marijuana to contain
anywhere from one to seven percent THC.
A doctor may prescribe marijuana to treat
certain health conditions. Uncontrollable or overly frequent marijuana
consumption without a doctor’s prescription may indicate abuse.
Abusing marijuana can have negative health
effects. It can also lead to addiction.
What Are the Effects of Marijuana Abuse and Addiction?
When marijuana enters the body, THC passes
through the bloodstream and to the brain. The chemical targets certain brain
cells called cannabinoid receptors. A large percentage of these receptive cells
exist in the parts of the brain that influence memory, coordination, sensory
perception, and thinking.
Marijuana has several effects on the body and
mind. Abusing marijuana can cause:
- memory problems
- difficulty solving problems
- increased appetite
- decreased coordination
- decreased concentration
As with cigarettes, smoking marijuana causes
damage to the lungs.
Long-term marijuana use can lead to learning problems
even years after stopping the drug.
As with other types of illicit drugs, marijuana
abuse can lead to addiction. According to the Office of National Control Drug
Policy, about one in every 11 marijuana users will become addicted. It is
difficult to say how much marijuana use causes dependence. It likely varies
Marijuana potency has increased in the past 20
years. A stronger drug increases the chances of addiction. According to the
Office of Alcohol and Drug Education, addiction is likely both physical and
psychological. In physical addition, the user’s body craves the drug. In
psychological addiction, the user consciously desires the drug’s effects.
Who Is at Risk for Marijuana Abuse and Addiction?
Anyone who uses marijuana can become addicted.
Additional risk factors for substance abuse
- having a family history of addiction
- having a psychiatric disorder
- lack of family involvement
What Are the Symptoms of Marijuana Abuse and Addiction?
Symptoms of marijuana addiction are similar to
symptoms of addiction to other drugs. Common symptoms are:
- increased tolerance
- continued use, even if it interferes with other areas of life
- withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms generally start about three
weeks after the last use. Marijuana addiction withdrawal symptoms may include:
- weight loss
How Are Marijuana Abuse and Addiction Treated?
Treatment for addiction may include counseling
to deal with co-existing addictions or psychiatric problems. People who are addicted
to marijuana are commonly addicted to other substances.
Types of counseling include:
- individual or group cognitive behavioral therapy
- family counseling
- motivational enhancement therapy
Medication to treat marijuana withdrawal
symptoms is not currently available.
What Is the Outlook for Marijuana Abuse and Addiction?
The outlook for marijuana addiction depends on how
long a person has been using the drug and whether there is an addiction to
other substances. Although treatment can work, relapse is common. Only about 50
percent of people in treatment go longer than two weeks without using
marijuana, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Preventing Marijuana Abuse and Addiction
The best way to prevent marijuana abuse and
addiction is to avoid using the drug, unless a medical professional prescribes
it to you. Always use prescribed medications only as recommended.