Counseling
THC Factoid
- During the time of marijuana intoxication, there is impairment of cognitive functions, perception, reaction time, learning, and memory. Impairment of coordination and tracking behavior has been reported to persist for several hours beyond the perception of the high. These impairments have obvious implications for the operation of a motor vehicle, and performance in the workplace or at school
- Chronic users of marijuana have difficulty in setting up an accurate focus of attention and in filtering out irrelevant information. The data suggest a dysfunction in the allocation of attentional resources and stimulus evaluation strategies. These results imply that long-term cannabis use may impair the ability to efficiently process information.
- Data suggests that the amotivational symptoms observed in heavy marijuana users who are in treatment are due to depression.
- Marijuana smoke contains more tars and many of the same carcinogenic compounds identified in tobacco smoke.
- The chronic use of marijuana by males can reduce levels of the hormone testosterone and sperm formation. In females, the levels of the hormones FSH and LH are reduced by the use of marijuana. Menstrual cycles can be affected and anovulatory cycles have been reported.
Note: This document is based on A Primer of Drug Action, 8th edition, 1998. Robert M. Julien, M.D., Ph.D.