Straight Facts About Marijuana
Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States and tends to be the first illegal drugs used.
Short-term effects of using marijuana include:
- Sleepiness
- Difficulty keeping track of time, impaired or reduced short-term memory
- Reduced ability to perform tasks requiring concentration and coordination, such as driving a car
- Increased heart rate
- Potential cardiac dangers for those with preexisting heart disease
- Bloodshot eyes
- Dry mouth and throat
- Decreased social inhibitions
- Paranoia, hallucinations
Long-term effects of using marijuana include:
- Enhanced cancer risk
- Decrease in testosterone levels and lower sperm counts for men
- Increase in testosterone levels for women and increased risk of infertility
- Diminished or extinguished sexual pleasure
- Psychological dependence requiring more of the drug to get the same effect
Source: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
For further information contact the USA Substance Abuse Program at
(251) 460-7980.
