Effects
What is the most common effect of a marijuana high?
Feelings of relaxation and mood elevation
What is the main brain chemical involved with marijuana use?
Dopamine
What is the legal age to receive a medical marijuana card vs to legally purchase recreational marijuana?
18 years old to receive a medical card and 21 years to purchase recreationally
Is it possible to die of marijuana overdose?
No, it is almost impossible for fatal overdose to occur with just marijuana alone.
What are the two main concerns about using marijuana as a medical treatment?
Risk to lung function and exposure to carcinogens.
No- THC remains in the body and brain for extended amounts of time. Therefore, marijuana has effects on cognitive functions for up to 48 hours.
Marijuana combined with what other drug can have fatal effects on the heart?
Cocaine
Can people in "ban cities" still legally obtain marijuana?
Yes, as of January 2019 people over 21 years of age can still legally be delivered marijuana, even if they reside in a ban city.
Can you become addicted to marijuana?
Yes! You can develop tolerance and dependence to marijuana, although it may look different than in other drugs.
Why isn't medical marijuana federally approved?
There aren't enough large scale studies to prove that the benefits outweigh the costs of medical marijuana
How does smoking marijuana impact the heart?
Increases heart rate (approximately 20-30 BPM). Frequent smokers may experience lower pumping efficiency in their heart, especially during exercise.
How might marijuana impact effectiveness of psychiatric medication?
What DEA Classification (schedule) is marijuana considered?
Schedule I at the federal level
Is marijuana safer for the lungs than cigarette smoke?
No, marijuana and tobacco smoke are fairly similar. Many of the toxic compounds (tar, carbon monoxide, cyanide) are found in similar levels in both types of smoke, but one carcinogen is found in higher concentration in marijuana
How was marijuana used by doctors prior to the 1900s?
Used as appetite stimulants, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers.
Why does marijuana impact memory?
There are numerous cannabinoid receptors in the Hippocampus- the part of the brain responsible for memory formation. Cells in this area don't activate properly when under influence of THC
Approximately how many different chemicals are found in marijuana?
Over 400- about 60 of which are directly related to the plant itself
What is the amount of marijuana someone in California can legally purchase in a day?
1 ounce of cannabis per day, or up to 8 grams of cannabis concentrate (i.e. gummies, edibles, etc)
Does marijuana impair the ability to drive? Why?
Yes- marijuana decreases attention and concentration, which can make operating any kind of machinery dangerous. This especially impacts reflexes if they are not attentively focusing on the road. Changes to perception and time also impact driving.
What was the first country in the world to legally offer medical marijuana? What was the first U.S. state?
Canada was the first country in 2003 and California became the first US state to offer medical marijuana to patients in 1996
How does marijuana affect the body's reproductive systems?
Marijuana reduces the production of hormones that help the reproductive system function. Long term use can impact a person's ability to reproduce
What part of the plant is high-grade (most potent) marijuana made from?
The flowing tops of female plants raised away from male plants. Contain anywhere from 7-20% THC
What are the legal consequences of giving/selling marijuana to a minor?
If you are over 18, you are faced with possible jail time and fines. Under 18, you will be considered for an infraction.
Is marijuana a gateway drug?
Yes and no. Marijuana users may be more likely to experiment with other drugs than non-users, but it is not a guarantee.
How much money did the legal sales of marijuana generate in 2018?
$10 billion