- The main psychoactive compound in marijuana is THC, which stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
- When marijuana is ingested, THC produces an effect by traveling through the bloodstream to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which control memory, coordination, movement and learning.
- Smoked marijuana produces an effect on the body within minutes, and the effects may last for up to three hours. When marijuana is eaten in food, it produces a longer-lasting effect that comes on more slowly.
- Marijuana causes a temporary alteration of cognition, mood and sensory perception in the user. Marijuana may produce a euphoric feeling in some users. Others may feel anxious or paranoid. Short-term memory and the ability to concentrate may be temporarily diminished by marijuana use.
- Marijuana increases the heart rate of the user. Some users may experience dry mouth, bloodshot eyes or both. Coordination and motor skills may also be impaired.
- Long-term marijuana users may develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring increasing amounts to yield an effect. Some long-term users may develop a psychological dependence on marijuana and experience irritability or insomnia without it.
