Marijuana use causes side effects which must be taken seriously. The cannabis, whose scientific name is Cannabis sativa, is a psychoactive substance obtained from the hemp plant. In its most common form it is consumed as marijuana (dried leaves and flowers) or as hashish (concentrated resin from the plant).
The chemical component responsible for the psychoactive effects is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), particularly delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. The percentage and concentration of THC varies from plant to plant, which explains the differences in effects between consumers. Depending on factors such as the environment, the amount consumed and the individual characteristics of the person, the effects can be perceived very differently.
Euphoria, relaxation, and happiness These are some of the effects that users may experience, although many others experience feelings of anxiety or even paranoia. As we already mentioned, the variability of the effects is due to the concentration of THC and other factors such as the route of administration.
Consumption routes and their immediate effects
people can experience immediate effects of marijuana differently depending on how it is consumed. When marijuana is smoked, the effects are felt more quickly, usually within a few minutes, and the results usually last between two and four hours.
However, when consumed in food or drink (ingested marijuana), THC takes longer to be absorbed by the body, so the effects can take between 30 minutes and 2 hours to appear and last up to 10 hours depending on the amount ingested. This variability makes dosing difficult, which can lead some people to consume more than necessary, generating unwanted side effects such as hallucinations or panic attacks.
Short-term effects of marijuana use
Short-term marijuana use significantly impairs perception, coordination, and decision-making ability. The psychoactive effects of THC may include:
- Distraction
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slowness in reactions and movements
These changes in cognitive ability are especially dangerous when performing activities that require attention, such as driving. According to road safety data, driving under the influence of marijuana increases the risk of accidents, especially when combined with alcohol or medication.
Additionally, users may experience severe anxiety, panic attacks, extreme fear or paranoia, which may disappear after a few hours, although in more serious situations they may require medical intervention. Operating heavy machinery or performing high-risk activities under the influence of marijuana is very dangerous.
Marijuana also causes an increase in heart rate and many consumers experience a dry mouth y Red eyes. Depending on the amount of THC, intense hunger (popularly known as “the cravings”) may also occur.
Long-term effects of marijuana use
Regular marijuana use can have long-lasting health effects, especially if started at a young age. Several studies indicate that prolonged marijuana use can affect cognitive function and mental health in the long term.
The smoke from marijuana joints contains toxic products that affect the lungs, which can lead to respiratory problems such as cough and chronic bronchitis. Also, those people who combine tobacco with marijuana have a higher risk of developing Lung diseases such as lung or throat cancer.
Constant exposure to THC chemicals can also alter brain development, especially in teenagers. It has been observed that young marijuana users tend to have problems with concentration, Abstract thinking and problems with the short term memory.
It is important to note that although many of these problems may disappear after a few weeks of abstinence, some effects may persist, especially in young and chronic users. In some cases, marijuana users may develop mental health problems such as anxiety y depression. Recent studies have suggested that excessive cannabis use can trigger episodes of schizophrenia in people who have a family history of this disease.
Impact on mental health
The effects of regular marijuana use on mental health have been widely studied. While some people claim that it helps them relax, for other users it can have the opposite effect.
El THC can alter the structure of neurotransmitters, affecting the regulation of emotions. This can lead in some cases to episodes of psychosisOther effects associated with regular consumption include episodes of severe depression, crisis of anxiety, and some studies suggest that THC may trigger the onset of mental disorders in genetically predisposed people.
Affectation of the cardiovascular system
THC also has effects on the cardiovascular system: By increasing the heart rate, it can be dangerous for people with heart problems. An increase in blood pressure and increased cardiac output are common after marijuana use, and for people who already suffer from cardiovascular diseases, this can increase the risk of heart attacks.
While some people believe that cannabis helps control blood pressure, regular use could worsen existing conditions, as in the long term, it can cause hypertension.
Complications arising from polydrug use
It is important to note that many marijuana users also tend to combine it with other substances. Polydrug use such as alcohol, cocaine or amphetamines can intensify the side effects of THC, increasing health risks.
Harmful mixtures:
- Cannabis + alcohol: makes coordination even more difficult and increases the chance of fainting.
- Cannabis + stimulants: increases the risk of arrhythmias and other heart problems.
- Cannabis + hallucinogens: can induce states of confusion and trigger severe paranoid episodes.
Simultaneous use of multiple drugs not only increases physical risks, but can also lead to additional mental and emotional disorders.
Responsible marijuana use requires education and proper dosage control. This is especially crucial for those who may have heart disease or a history of mental disorders, as cannabis can exacerbate these problems.
Marijuana can be safely consumed in some cases, but given the risks mentioned above, caution should be exercised. People who start using it should do so with small doses to test how their body handles the substance before increasing their intake. It is also advisable to avoid consuming other substances, as interactions between different drugs can be harmful.
Marijuana cultivation
It is crucial to understand that although marijuana use has immediate effects such as euphoria or relaxation, in the long term it can seriously affect both physical and mental health. The way it is consumed, the dose used, and whether it is combined with other substances are key factors that will determine the final effects on the body. Anyone should make sure they are well informed about the risks before consuming it, especially if they have pre-existing heart or mental health conditions.