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.
Can you name one reason marijuana can be prescribed medically?
Anxiety, PTSD, HIV/AIDS, sleep disorders, eating disorders, joint pain, intermittent explosive disorder, poly-drug abuse, chronic pain, Crohn's disease, some epilepsy/seizure disorders, Parkinson's Disease, and Friedrich's ataxia to name a few!
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.
How did 420 culture begin?
a. High school students would search for "pot fields" at 4:20pm after school
b. 420 was a code name for marijuana used during the Vietnam War.
c. April 20th has long been a ritual holiday for many cultures using the plant for healing and ritual properties
a. High school students, nicknamed the Waldos, would search for "pot fields" at 4:20pm after school, later developed into a national celebration.
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.
What was cannabis considered in many historical cultures throughout the world, primarily throughout Central and South America?
A sacred herb used for ritual community and religious ceremonies.
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 tobacco, so there is a small difference between the two.
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
When was marijuana banned and deemed illegal in the United States? (*Hint, it is some time in the 1900's)
1937, after it had been actively used for medical concerns for almost a half century prior
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
As marijuana solely become more openly legalized, how many "Green States" are there currently throughout the US?
23 in total.
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 might marijuana impact effectiveness of psychiatric medication?
It can cancel out the effects of the prescribed medication, especially antipsychotic medications.