CANNABIS

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world. It is made from parts of the Cannabis sativa plant. Cannabis is a complex plant containing over 400 chemical compounds. About 100 of these compounds are unique to the plant and are collectively known as cannabinoids. The most well-known cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short, is psychoactive, that is it acts on the brain to adversely affect a person’s perception of space and time, information processing, attention and co-ordination.

Strains of Cannabis sativa are specifically bred for their high THC content in resinous glands on their flowers and some leaves. The plant material is dried and added to cigarettes for smoking or added to baked produce such as brownies or cookies

EFFECTS OF CANNABIS

Clinical Symptoms of cannabis use may include reddening of the eyes, dry mouth, increased appetite, increased heart rate and lowering of blood pressure.

Effects of cannabis use can be unpredictable and may include:

• Euphoria, relaxation, drowsiness and general feelings of well-being.

• Reduced attention span and memory,

• Altered perception of reality, hallucinations

• Anxiety, panic and confusion

• Apathy, depression, irritability

• Paranoia and psychosis

• Chronic use of cannabis has been linked to mood disorders and schizophrenia