Marijuana, the dried parts of a plant called cannabis sativa, is the most commonly abused illegal drug in the United States. This drug is most often smoked, either in a pipe, as a cigarette, or as a cigar. It is also sometimes mixed with food. THC is the primary addictive ingredient in marijuana. It can lead to a psychological and physical drug addiction. Users become dependent on its relaxing effects. Symptoms during detox can include irritability, insomnia, anxiety, aggression, and drug cravings.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in 2004 there were 14.6 million people in the United States age 12 and older who had used marijuana in the past month. That year, 2.1 million people had used the drug for the first time, and 63.8 percent of them were under 18 years old. In drug-related emergency room visits in 2003, marijuana was the third most commonly mentioned drug abuse. It is believed that young males abuse this drug most frequently.
Effects of marijuana drug use are increased appetite, relaxation, fatigue, paranoia, dry mouth, increased heart rate, memory and learning problems, and an altered perception of time and space. Studies show that there are long-term effects on the brain of an individual who abuses marijuana. Respiratory problems similar to those from smoking cigarettes are also common with marijuana abuse. It causes psychological problems like depression, anxiety, and reduced abilities to learn and problem-solve. There are also numerous social consequences of marijuana abuse.
Addiction treatment programs are available for people who have a drug addiction to marijuana. In 2002, it was the primary drug in approximately 15 percent of the rehab facility admissions in the United States. Marijuana abuse interferes with an individual’s ability to live a happy and productive lifestyle. Treatment programs can provide individuals with the tools needed to maintain addiction recovery.