special subjects
Marijuana
Introduction
Marijuana (cannabis) is a drug made from the plantsCannabis sativaandCannabis indicathat contain a psychoactive chemical called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Marijuana produces a dreamy state, a sense of well-being, and distorted perceptions. People can develop psychologic dependence when they use marijuana for a long period of time. Stopping the drug causes only mild symptoms. Marijuana can be detected in urine for days to weeks after it was used. Treatment involves counseling, which is effective only when people are motivated to stop. (See also Marijuana, Synthetic and Marijuana (cannabis) use is widespread in the United States; typically, marijuana is used periodically without evidence of social or mental health issues. In the United States, marijuana is commonly smoked in the form of cigarettes (joints) made from the stems, leaves, and flowering tops of the dried plant (Cannabis sativaorCannabis indica). Marijuana is also used as hashish, the pressed resin (tarry substance) of the plant. The legalization of marijuana has led to a market for products that can be eaten and vaporized in e-cigarettes. There are also a variety of forms that can be applied to the skin as tinctures, lotions, or sprays. The active ingredient of marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).Dronabinol, a synthetic form of delta-9-THC, is used to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy drugs and to enhance appetite in people with AIDS. Most people use marijuana intermittently and without developing noticeable social or psychologic dysfunction or dependence. However, some people become dependent on marijuana. 