Marijuana

Photo courtesy of DEA photo library

Definition
Marijuana is a mix of the leaves and buds of the hemp plant Cannabis Sativa. The most active ingredient in marijuana is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Various concentrations of THC can be found in different parts of the plant and range from trace amounts to as high as 12 percent by weight.

Slang Terms
Bud, Chronic, Dope, Dro, Grass, Herb, Mary Jane, Pot, Reefer, Weed

Usage
Marijuana is most commonly smoked, but can also be eaten. A marijuana cigarette is referred to as a joint. A "blunt" is marijuana wrapped in the shell of a cigar emptied of its tobacco. Marijuana is also smoked using pipes or bongs (water filled pipes). Marijuana can also be baked into foods such as brownies, or be used to brew tea.

Effects
The effects of marijuana are many and can include sedation, euphoria, bloodshot eyes, difficulty with concentration, increased heart rate, and increased hunger. Hallucinations and paranoia can also result, but these effects are rare.

Detection
Marijuana can be detected in urine, hair, and saliva. Passive inhalation of marijuana smoke is not a legitimate explanation for a positive drug test result.

Law
The only legal explanation for a positive marijuana result in the United States is a physician’s prescription for Marinol (Dronabinol). Marinol is THC in pill form and is indicated for:

• anorexia associated with weight loss in patients with AIDS
• nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy in patients who have failed to respond adequately to conventional antiemetic treatments.

Some states have authorized marijuana use if it is recommended by a physician. A physician’s note authorizing the use of marijuana for compassionate reasons is not a legal explanation for a positive test result since marijuana is an illegal substance as defined by the Federal Government.