Drug abuse

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Overview

Drug abuse

Definition:

Drug abuse is the use of illicit drugs or the abuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs for purposes other than those for which they are indicated or in a manner or in quantities other than directed. See also drug abuse first aid and drug abuse and dependence.

Alternative Names:
Heroin abuse; Substance abuse; Marijuana abuse; Illicit drug abuse; Narcotic abuse; Cocaine abuse; Hallucinogen abuse; PCP abuse; LSD abuse
Information:

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HISTORY,INCIDENCE, AND EFFECTS OF DRUGS OR DRUG CATEGORIES

MARIJUANA ("grass," "pot," "reefer," "joint," "hashish," "cannabis," "weed," "Mary Jane")

About 1 in 3 Americans has used marijuana at least once and approximately 10% of the population uses it on a regular basis. Next to tobacco, and alcohol in some areas, marijuana is the most popular substance chosen by young people for regular use.

The source of marijuana is the hemp plant (cannabis sativa). The active ingredient is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and other cannabinoids which are found in the leaves and flowering shoots of the plant.

Hashish is a resinous substance, taken from the tops of female plants. It contains the highest concentration of THC.

The drug dose delivered from any particular preparation of marijuana greatly varies. The concentration of THC may vary as much as a hundred fold, due to diluents or contaminants in the sample.

The effects of marijuana may be noted within seconds to several minutes after inhaling the smoke (from a joint or a pipe) or within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion (eating foods containing marijuana, such as "hash brownies").

Because the effects are felt almost immediately by the smoker, further inhalation can be stopped at any time to regulate the effect. In contrast, those ingesting marijuana experience effects that are slower to develop, cumulative, longer-lasting, and more variable, making unpleasant reactions more likely.

The primary effects of marijuana are behavioral, because the drug affects the central nervous system (CNS). Popular use of marijuana has arisen because of its effects of euphoria (feeling of joy), relaxation, and increased visual, auditory, and taste perceptions that may occur with low-to-moderate doses. Most users also report an increase in their appetite ("the munchies").

Unpleasant effects that may occur include depersonalization (inability to distinguish oneself from others), changed body image, disorientation and acute panic reactions or severe paranoia.