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Marijuana was used as a folk medicine in Central Asia and China as early as 3000 BC. In the early 1900's it started to be used as a pleasure inducing drug. The use of marijuana became widespread by the 60's and 70's among students, second to alcohol. Although marijuana has not been proven to be addictive, and no physical withdrawal symptoms appear when use is discontinued, psychological dependence does develop. Two phases occur with marijuana intoxication: Initial stimulation, giddiness, and euphoria, followed by tranquility and sedation. Mad changes are usually accompanied by altered perceptions of time and space and of ones bodily functions. The processes of thinking become disrupted by memories and fragmented idea. Negative effects include anxiety attacks, confusion, acute panic reactions, a sense of helplessness, fear and loss of self-control.
Chronic users of marijuana are said to develop an "Amotivational Syndrome," characterized by passivity, preoccupation with drug taking and decreased motivation. This syndrome has not been extablished to have any relationship to the use of marijuana. Marijuana intoxication, like alcohol intoxication, impairs reading comprehension, problem solving ability, speech, reaction time and memory. The long-term effects on intellect are unknown
Heart related effects. Asthma, bronchitis, damage to respiratory system and tissue. Reddening of eyes, change in sex drive, infertility. Changes in body temperature, hallucinations, slowed reaction time. Delusions, panic, toxic psychosis, activation of latent schizophrenia which may continue indefinitely. Amotivational sydrome, memory loss with possible brain damage.
Death of self and others due to driving under the influence, especially when combined with alcohol is possible.
Dependence can develop as a psychological craving.
Unborn children of mothers who use cannabis may develop congenital defects or experience delayed development after birth