Illegal drug consumption has been increasing these days. Marijuana is one of the commonly used illegal drugs. Problems with memory and learning; loss of coordination; difficulty in thinking and problem solving; and increased heart rate are some of the short-term side effects of marijuana abuse. Continued use of marijuana may have serious effects on brain, heart and lungs.
Central nervous system is affected by heavy marijuana use. The active component of marijuana called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) attaches to specific receptors on neurons impairing concentration and memory skills. Production, release and regulation of neurotransmitters are impaired by THC. This leads to alteration in passage of signals between neurons. As a result, chronic anxiety, depression, and personality disturbances are observed.
Short term loss of memory is mostly seen in long-term marijuana users. This is because of binding of THC to hippocampus, which is an area on brain responsible for memory. Decrease in activity of nerve cells is observed with high marijuana use. It also lead to psychotic disorders like hallucinations and delusions.
Disrupted brain development is seen among adolescents and young adults consuming high dosage of marijuana. Abnormalities arise in areas of the brain that interconnect brain regions involved in memory, attention, language, decision-making and executive functioning skills. It is necessary to avoid marijuana consumption at adolescence as it is an important stage for development and maturation of brain. Marijuana drug test should be conducted on young adults randomly to prevent them addicted to the drug. Proper and timely treatments should be provided.
Lack of motivation and loss of concentration among employees decreases their productivity. Alteration of balance, control, perception skills, coordination, and others among marijuana abused drivers causes several accidents. In order to prevent further brain damage and avoid accidents and organization losses, marijuana testing should be mandatory in various organizations.