Marijuana intoxication
Key points
- Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States.
- Its intoxicating effects include relaxation, sleepiness, and mild euphoria (getting high).
- Marijuana can cause undesirable side effects, which increase with higher dosages.
- These side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, impaired perception and motor skills, decreased short term memory, paranoia, mood swings, and hallucinations.
Alternative names
Cannabis intoxication; Intoxication - marijuana (cannabis)
Definition
Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States. The drug is primarily smoked, sometimes eaten. Its intoxicating effects include relaxation, sleepiness, and mild euphoria (getting high).
Marijuana can cause undesirable side effects, which increase with higher dosages. These side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, impaired perception and motor skills, decreased short term memory, paranoia, mood swings, and hallucinations. The amount and effect of these side effects varies from individual to individual.
Related topics:
- Drug abuse
- Drug abuse and dependence
- Drug abuse first aid
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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