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Cannabis (marijuana, pot)

WHAT IS CANNABIS?

  • Cannabis, or marijuana, comes from a plant.
  • The dried buds of the female plant contain the highest concentration of psychoactive compounds. These buds are usually what is sold and consumed as marijuana.

HOW IS CANNABIS USED?

  • Cannabis is usually smoked, although it can be eaten.
  • Joints are the most common method of smoking but a wide range of pipes, bongs, hookahs, and other devices are also used.
  • Cannabis can be prepared in butter or cooked directly into foods for ingestion.
  • Often people will cook with the leaves of the plant rather than the buds.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF CANNABIS?

  • In small quantities, users find cannabis both relaxing and stimulating.
  • The senses are enhanced, as well as the appetite.
  • In larger quantities (or with stronger strains) the effects may feel similar to LSD or Mushrooms. Users may experience nausea, mild hallucinations, anxiety, or paranoia.
  • Cannabis tends to cause an increase in heart rate, reddening of the eyes, and dryness in the mouth.
  • Cannabis is used medicinally to treat the symptoms of a number of diseases such as cancer, glaucoma, and AIDS.

IS CANNABIS ADDICTIVE?

  • While some people use cannabis regularly, cannabis does not create a physical dependence and users do not experience withdrawal symptoms.
According to the 2001-2002 Survey from the Office of Health Education, 32% of Penn Students report Marijuana use in the past 12 months.

WHAT ARE THE DRAWBACKS OF USING CANNABIS?

  • Smoking anything, including cannabis, can damage the lungs, throat, and mouth.
  • Cannabis is a Schedule I narcotic and therefore illegal.
  • Cannabis slows down reaction time and impairs driving.
  • Some people feel uncomfortable, nauseous, or paranoid after using cannabis.

OVERDOSE

  • If you suspect you or a friend has overdosed or had other problems with cannabis, GET HELP. Call 511 on campus or 911 off campus.
  • No student seeking medical treatment for themselves or a friend for an alcohol or other drug-related overdose will be subject to University discipline for the sole violation of using or possessing alcohol or drugs. (Penn's Medical Amnesty Policy)

Other Forms

  • 'Wet' Dangerous New High - A chemical used to preserve the dead is becoming an increasingly popular drug for users looking for a new and different high, one which often comes with violent and psychotic side effects, officials say.

This information taken from Dancesafe.org

*The Office of Health Education does not encourage or condone the use of any illegal drug.


 
Copyright © 2004-06• Office of Health Education • University of Pennsylvania• Designed by Steve McCann