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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.
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.
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