Marijuana is a preparation of various parts of the Indian hemp plant, Cannabis Sativa that grows in most parts of the world. A sticky resin on the flowering tops and upper leaves, (mostly in the female plant) contains more than 60 cannabinoid chemicals. The main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC. Concentrations of THC vary widely, depending upon the part of the plant used, how it has been cultivated, harvested and cured. Marijuana preparations of mostly leaves and stems will provide a range of THC from .5 to 5 percent THC, while the "sensemilla" variety may have THC concentrations as high as 7 to 14 percent.

While marijuana is the most abused of the illicit drugs, the majority of Americans do not use cannabis. Only 5 percent of the entire adult population and 15% of the college population have used marijuana in the past month.

Marijuana is most often smoked in a joint or through a bong, although it may be ingested. Individuals who smoke marijuana inhale deeply, and hold their breath to permit the highest level of absorption of the THC through the lining of the lung. Ususally, marijuana is used in small amounts. One joint is often shared amoung 2-3 users and provides enough THC to create a brief period of intoxication. Regular users of marijuana may need more than part of a joint for the same high and heavy users may smoke multiple joints daily.

THC is fat soluble and remains in the body for long periods of time. The time required to clear half of the THC from the body ranges from 1-2 days for heavy to light users. However, THC may be detected for several weeks after use. The prevalence of standard drug testing as a condition in hiring for many companies these days makes this a serious issue for students seeking employment.

Marijuana does not fit into any established drug category and is placed in the category of Cannabinoids. Marijuana may act like a stimulant, causing mild euphoria, talkativeness and laughter. It may produce relaxation, or sedation or changes in perception, such as time distortion or intense sensory experiences. Marijuana interferes with short-term memory and users may become lost in thought. Reaction time is altered and marijuana impairs the ability to operate machinery, driving or other activities requiring skills. The reaction of an individual to low doses of marijuana may be impacted by the environment. However, at higher doses, effects may be more linked to the drug itself. The larger the dose, the greater the effect.

Some individuals may believe that they are "going crazy" because of the drug in their system and may become anxious and panicky. People who have not had much experience with marijuana sometimes think these sensations mean that they are going crazy and inexperienced users may become anxious or panicky. Reassurance that they are in a drug induced state and a calm environment can aid the person. The symptoms usually disappear within a few hours.

The physical effects of marijuana include increased heart rate, increased blood pressure and dilation of blood vessels in the eyes, which creates the characteristic bloodshot eyes of marijuana users. Marijuana also dilates the bronchial tubes and irritates the lining of the lungs. A single marijuana joint contains the same amount of tar and noxious substances as approximately 14-16 cigarettes.

Marijuana is commonly combined with alcohol. The effects of alcohol and marijuana are additive. Marijuana may decrease a person's chances of vomiting and therefore limit one of the body's defenses against alcohol poisoning. Also, both alcohol and marijuana interfere with reaction time, making behaviors which require skill much more dangerous. Deaths linked to marijuana use are typically linked to the resulting behaviors, not an \ overdose on the drug itself.

Long-term or chronic marijuana use has been linked to damage in the lungs. Marijuana use is linked to bronchitis and the development of emphysema. There have been reports of cancers of the respiratory and upper digestive tracts in heavy users. Some research demonstrates that cannabis impairs the immune system in animals. The evidence on human subjects and immune systems is unclear, some studies show minor impairment, increasing chances of contacting minor infections such as cold and flu. Because of this minor immune system impairment, it may be inappropriate for individuals with severe immune problems to use this drug. This includes individuals who have HIV or AIDS or are undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

Some research studies suggest that the use of marijuana during pregnancy may result in premature babies and in low birth weights. Marijuana use is also linked to disruption of the production of sexual hormones and may impact the menstrual cycles of women and fertility of men.

Long-term regular users of marijuana may become psychologically dependent. They may have a hard time limiting their use, they may need more of the drug to get the same effect, and they may develop problems with their schoolwork, jobs and personal relationships.

Marijuana is a controlled substance in Pennsylvania. All forms, compounds, derivatives, mixtures, and preparations extracted from any part of a marijuana plant or its seeds are banned. A conviction for possession of a small amount of marijuana for personal use only, the possession of a small amount with intent to distribute it but not sell it, or for the distribution of a small amount but not a sale is a misdemeanor carrying a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail, a fine up to $500 or both. A small amount of marijuana is defined as an amount up to 30 grams. Possession of more than 30 grams of marijuana may result in conviction of a felony with a fine up to $15,000 and/or up to five years in jail or if more than 1,000 pounds, then up to $100,000 and/or up to ten years in jail. Other fines and penalties could be faced if you are arrested for manufacture or distribution of marijuana.

For additional information about marijuana, contact HealthWorks Peer Education Program, 19/20 Ritenour or call 863-2500 during regular working hours or Wellspring from On Drugs, Inc., a drug education, crisis intervention and referral agency, located at 236 South Allen Street, State College, PA is accessible 24 hours a day. Their telephone number is (814) 237-5855.

Students at campuses other than University Park should consult their Campus Health Office or the human services section of their local phone book for local referral information.