Effects Of Marijuana On The Human Body

May 25, 2008 |

by Chris Channing

The side effects of marijuana usage can vary and are dependent on a variety of factors. Tolerance to THC, the main psychoactive chemical found in marijuana, will usually determine what effects are felt and for how long. The mindset of the user, as with all psychoactive drugs, also plays an important part in deciding how the user will feel after consuming marijuana.

Short-Term Effects

Shortly after using marijuana, users usually report a feeling of elation, enhanced ability to relax, and changes in their perception of the world around them. Mental effects of marijuana can often be hard to predict, although the general consensus is that using marijuana is a very pleasing experience, but reports of “bad trips”, or unpleasant experiences, are not uncommon. Ideas often flow more freely, giving users a sense of being more creative or intuitive. A marijuana user’s sense of time may be distorted, resulting in hours feeling like minutes or vice versa. While under the influence, marijuana users may find that tasks that were previously viewed as boring or unfulfilling have become entertaining or completely satisfying. Short term memory is decreased substantially, and some marijuana users often find it hard to remember things they have just been told or have done. Some level of paranoia is present after consuming certain strains of the drug, and at high dose levels panic attacks may ensue.

A myriad of physical effects can be observed in the marijuana user as well. In addition to an increased sense of relaxation, marijuana can cause lethargy or overall sleepiness in its users. Marijuana, whether eaten or smoked, is also effective in increasing a person’s appetite. This has led to the term “munchies” being associated with feeling hungry after marijuana use.

Obviously it is unhealthy to inhale smoke of any kind, marijuana smoke being no exception. Coughing, wheezing, and a variety of upper respiratory can result from consuming marijuana through smoking. Other common short term side effects associated with marijuana usage are reddening of the eyes, loss of coordination, and lightheadedness.

Long-Term Effects

Due to prolonged marijuana use over a period of time, a user may experience changes in their mood or even overall mental health. The short and long-term memory of a frequent marijuana user is diminished with use of the drug. As with any other drug, tolerance to its effects will rise and the user will feel the need to consume more marijuana to get the desired effect.

After marijuana use has been put to a stop, certain withdrawal symptoms may occur. Most common is boredom with everyday life while sober. Difficulty sleeping may also occur, as marijuana is used by some as a sleep aid. Some studies have shown that marijuana users are more likely to be mentally unhealthy, developing problems as extreme as psychosis, than people who do not use marijuana.

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