Slang

• pot
• joint
• weed
• ganja
• Mary Jane
• grass
• reefer
• herb
• chronic
• green

How it works

Marijuana is frequently rolled into a cigarette (a joint) or smoked through a pipe or bong. It can also be inserted into a cigar (a blunt) or eaten in various foods.

Appearance

• Marijuana is a mixture of leaves, flowers, stems and buds.
• It ranges in colour from grey-green to greenish-brown.
• It is usually dried and looks like coarse tea or oregano.

Side effects

• The effects of smoking marijuana are felt within a few minutes and last two to four hours.
• How marijuana will affect you depends on several different factors including how often you have used marijuana, the mood you are in and if you have been drinking.
• Some users feel calm, relaxed and sleepy while others are anxious, talkative and giddy. Some laugh for hours while some panic.
• Many users experience an increase in appetite (the munchies) as well as an increase in pulse rate and pupil size.
• Most users get red eyes and their coordination slows.
• Short term memory, driving ability, balance, judgment and the ability to process information are all impaired.

Long term effects

• Cancer and damage to the immune system, lungs and airways.
• Increased risk of cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and oesophagus.
• Respiratory system damaged by smoking.
• Disruption in menstrual cycle, decreased sperm count and possible congenital abnormalities.
• Psychological effects include panic reactions, psychosis, feeling unmotivated, diminished drive and lessened ambition. These effects can lead to other problems (for example, failing out of school because one is unmotivated to go to class or complete coursework).

Facts

• Studies show that kids who smoke marijuana are more likely to take part in risky behaviour – unsafe sex, trouble with the law and poor academic performance (ahealth).
• While a lot of people who smoke pot say they are better drivers, the opposite is true. Marijuana slows your reflexes so your reaction time is reduced. Driving when high is impaired driving and the consequences are the same as those for drunk driving (Saskatchewan Government Insurance).
• Satistics released in July 2004 suggest more than 10 million Canadians aged 15 or older have tried marijuana or hashish at least once (CBC news).

Laws

Currently marijuana is a Schedule 1 Narcotic under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

However, marijuana can be prescribed to treat certain chronic medical conditions. To receive an exemption from the current law, patients must apply to the Minister of Health outlining their condition and medical history and they must include a statement from their doctor that encourages treatment with marijuana.

Where to go for help

If you or someone you know regularly uses marijuana or any of its counterparts, please talk to a doctor, nurse, health professional or anyone else you think may be able to help you.

Links