Studies have shown that marijuana affects hormones. Heavy doses of the drug may delay the onset of puberty and affect sperm production in males. In females, the drug can disrupt the menstrual cycle and inhibit ovulation. Someone who smokes marijuana regularly may have many of the same respiratory problems as tobacco smokers. They have symptoms of daily cough, chronic bronchitis and more frequent chest colds.
Researchers disagree about the dependence or tolerance of long-term users.
Someone high on marijuana may seem dizzy and have trouble walking. The user can act giddy or very mellow. Their eyes may appear red and bloodshot and he or she may have a hard time remembering things that just happened. After the early effects fade, sometimes a few hours later, the user can become sleepy. Parents should be aware of traces of marijuana, marijuana paraphernalia or the odor on clothes and in the bedroom.