Pubdate: Fri, 27 Jun 2014
Source: Walla Walla Union-Bulletin (WA)
Copyright: 2014 Walla Walla Union-Bulletin
Contact:  http://www.union-bulletin.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2619
Author: Carlos F Acevedo

MARIJUANA IS ADDICTIVE, PERIOD!

All of us have cannabinoid receptors in our brain cells. These 
molecular targets are the landing sites for thetetrahydrocannabinoids 
from marijuana, and in this way, interrupting the neural 
communication pathway that plays an important role in normal brain 
development and function.

The highest density of cannabinoid receptors is found in parts of the 
brain that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, 
sensory and time perception and coordinated movement.

Marijuana overactivates the endocannabinoid system, causing the 
"high" and the proverbial "pot head" appearance that users experience 
such as altered perceptions and mood, impaired coordination, 
difficulty with thinking and problem-solving, and disrupted learning 
and memory.

When marijuana is used heavily by young people, their brain 
development is altered and its effect on memory and thinking may last 
a long time or even be permanent!

Several large long-term studies showed that teenagers who smoked 
marijuana heavily lost an average of 8 points in IQ, and the lost 
cognitive abilities were not fully restored.

Long-term marijuana users trying to quit experience withdrawal 
symptoms such as irritability, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, 
anxiety, drug cravings, drug-seeking behavior and relapse episodes 
over and over again.

Marijuana is addictive, period.

Carlos F Acevedo, M.D.

psychiatrist

Walla Walla
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom