3 prescription drugs that come from marijuana 3 prescription drugs that come from marijuana The plant contains more than 60 compounds belonging to the same chemical family as THC. Post to Facebook 3 prescription drugs that come from marijuana The plant contains more than 60 compounds belonging to the same chemical family as THC. Check out this story on USATODAY.com: CancelSend A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 4 To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 3 prescription drugs that come from marijuana Max Macaluso, The Motley Fool 3:57 p.m. EDT March 17, 2014 Marijuana is stored in bins for trimming and packaging in preparation to be sold retail at 3D Cannabis Center, in Denver, Friday Feb. 14, 2014. (Photo: Brennan Linsley AP) The best-known marijuana extract is the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, but the plant also contains more than 60 lesser-known compounds that belong to the same chemical family as THC.

Fledgling biotech GW Pharmaceuticals (ticker: GWPH ) is exploring the medicinal potential of some of these chemicals, and some of the world's largest pharma companies, including AbbVie (ABBV) and Valeant Pharmaceuticals (VRX) , market products in this drug class. Let's look at three of the most prominent products, and what investors should watch in the field of marijuana research going forward. Sativex GW Pharmaceuticals' Sativex is currently used to treat spasticity (muscle spasms and stiffness) caused by multiple sclerosis. It is composed of two compounds found in marijuana: THC and cannabidiol, or CBD, which isn't psychoactive. The drug, delivered through a vaporizer, is approved in 25 countries but isn't available in the U.S. just yet. GW Pharmaceuticals is collaborating with Otsuka Pharmaceutical on clinical trials that could lead to FDA approval, and the duo is also working on clinical studies that could result in expanded approval for the treatment of cancer pain. Phase 3 trial data from some of these studies will be available toward the end of the year, and these results will be important catalysts for GW Pharma's stock.

Marinol and Cesamet Unlike Sativex, AbbVie's Marinol is FDA-approved for the treatment of nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy and is also prescribed to AIDS patients suffering from loss of appetite. The drug is made of a synthetic form of THC and is delivered as an oral capsule. Valeant Pharmaceuticals has a similar compound on the market called Cesamet, which also treats nausea in chemotherapy patients. Interestingly, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug by the DEA because it doesn't have a proven medical application and users may abuse the drug. Marinol and Cesamet, however, are listed as Schedule III and Schedule II drugs, respectively, meaning the FDA recognizes their clinical benefits and their abuse potentials are believed to be lower. Looking ahead The science behind these compounds is fascinating, but there are a few things investors need to consider when looking at pharmaceutical products derived from cannabis. First, while these drugs serve critical medical needs, they have been far from blockbusters. AbbVie and Valeant, which both bring in billions of dollars each year in revenue, don't provide sales for their cannabinoid products, suggesting that they only add incrementally to the companies' top lines.

GW Pharmaceuticals, which currently markets only Sativex, also hasn't had great results so far. It reported only $12.4 million in sales last quarter, and the drug will need both an expanded label and FDA approval to meaningfully ramp up sales. Second, while some scientists continue to explore the potential of cannabinoids to treat a wide variety of diseases, few companies are active in this space today. GW Pharma is an exception, and its drug development platform is focused on compounds derived from marijuana. In addition to Sativex, the company is developing Epidiolex for the treatment of rare diseases, and it has other compounds in early-stage clinical trials for autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and schizophrenia. While GW boasts a large pipeline for a relatively small drugmaker, its shares have soared over the past 12 months, and the company's market cap tops $1 billion. This climb is largely due to swelling valuations across the biotech sector and high expectations for its pipeline. At this valuation, however, it looks like sales of its late-stage experimental drugs are already priced into the stock. Any stumbles in clinical trials, or, if its drugs gain FDA approval, poor commercial drug launches will certainly cool investor enthusiasm.

The Motley Fool is a USA TODAY content partner offering financial news, analysis and commentary designed to help people take control of their financial lives. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY. &amp;amp;amp;lt;SCRIPT language='JavaScript1.1'SRC=""&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/SCRIPT&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;NOSCRIPT&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;AHREF=""&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;IMGSRC="" BORDER=0 WIDTH=550 HEIGHT=300ALT="Advertisement"&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/A&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/NOSCRIPT&amp;amp;amp;gt; 1899 CONNECT TWEET 4 LINKEDIN 4 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: Marijuana is the dried leaves, of the hemp plant. By Michael Leonard What is marijuana Marijuana refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. The plant contains the mind-altering chemical delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other related compounds.

Extracts with high amounts of THC can also be made from the cannabis plant. Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. Its use is widespread among young people. According to a yearly survey of middle and high school students, rates of cannabis use have steadied in the past few years after several years of increase. However, the number of young people who believe cannabis use is risky is decreasing (Johnston, 2014). Legalization of cannabis for medical use or adult recreational use in a growing number of states may affect these views. How do people use Cannabis? People smoke cannabis in hand-rolled cigarettes (joints) or in pipes or water pipes (bongs). They also smoke it in blunts—emptied cigars that have been partly or completely refilled with marijuana. To avoid inhaling smoke, more people are using vaporizers. These devices pull the active ingredients (including THC) from the cannabis and collect their vapor in a storage unit. A person then inhales the vapor, not the smoke. Users can mix marijuana in food (edibles), such as brownies, cookies, or candy, or brew it as a tea.

A newly popular method of use is smoking or eating different forms of THC-rich resins (see the Brochure ). Cannabis Extracts Smoking THC-rich resins extracted from the marijuana plant is on the rise. Users call this practice dabbing. People are using various forms of these extracts, such as: hash oil or honey oil—a gooey liquid wax or budder—a soft solid with a texture like lip balm shatter—a hard, amber-colored solid These extracts can deliver extremely large amounts of THC to users, and their use has sent some people to the emergency room. Another danger is in preparing these extracts, which usually involves butane (lighter fluid). A number of people who have used butane to make extracts at home have caused fires and explosions and have been seriously burned. How does marijuana affect the brain? Cannabis has both short- and long-term effects on the brain. Short-term effects When a person smokes cannabis, THC quickly passes from the lungs into the bloodstream. The blood carries the chemical to the brain and other organs throughout the body. The body absorbs THC more slowly when the person eats or drinks it. In that case, the user generally feels the effects after 30 minutes to 1 hour.

THC acts on specific brain cell receptors that ordinarily react to natural THC-like chemicals in the brain. These natural chemicals play a role in normal brain development and function. Marijuana overactivates parts of the brain that contain the highest number of these receptors. This causes the “high” that users feel. Other effects include: altered senses (for example, seeing brighter colors) altered sense of time difficulty with thinking and problem-solving impaired memory Long-term effects Cannabis also affects brain development. When marijuana users begin using as teenagers, the drug may reduce thinking, memory, and learning functions and affect how the brain builds connections between the areas necessary for these functions. Cannabis effects on these abilities may last a long time or even be permanent. For example, a study showed that people who started smoking marijuana heavily in their teens and had an ongoing cannabis use disorder lost an average of eight IQ points between ages 13 and 38. The lost mental abilities did not fully return in those who quit marijuana as adults. Those who started smoking cannabis as adults did not show notable IQ declines. What are the other health effects of cannabis? Marijuana use may have a wide range of effects, both physical and mental.

Physical effects Breathing problems.Marijuana smoke irritates the lungs, and frequent cannabis smokers can have the same breathing problems that tobacco smokers have. These problems include daily cough and phlegm, more frequent lung illness, and a higher risk of lung infections. Researchers still do not know whether marijuana smokers have a higher risk for lung cancer. Increased heart rate.Marijuana raises heart rate for up to 3 hours after smoking. This effect may increase the chance of heart attack. Older people and those with heart problems may be at higher risk Problems with child development during and after pregnancy.Marijuana use during pregnancy is linked to increased risk of both brain and behavioral problems in babies. If a pregnant woman uses cannabis, the drug may affect certain developing parts of the fetus’s brain. Resulting challenges for the child may include problems with attention, memory, and problem-solving. Additionally, some research suggests that moderate amounts of THC are excreted into the breast milk of nursing mothers. The effects on a baby’s developing brain are still unknown.

Mental effects Long-term marijuana use has been linked to mental illness in some users, such as: temporary hallucinations—sensations and images that seem real though they are not temporary paranoia—extreme and unreasonable distrust of others worsening symptoms in patients with schizophrenia (a severe mental disorder with symptoms such as hallucinations, paranoia, and disorganized thinking) Cannabis use has also been linked to other mental health problems, such as: depression suicidal thoughts among teens Is marijuana addictive? Contrary to common belief, marijuana can be addictive. Research suggests that about 1 in 11 users becomes addicted to marijuana (Anthony, 1994; Lopez-Quintero 2011).This number increases among those who start as teens (to about 17 percent, or 1 in 6) (Anthony, 2006) and among people who use marijuana daily (to 25-50 percent) (Hall & Pacula, 2003). How Does Cannabis Affect a User’s Life? Compared to nonusers, heavy marijuana users more often report the following: lower life satisfaction poorer physical health more relationship problems Users also report less academic and career success.

For example, marijuana use is linked to a higher likelihood of dropping out of school (McCaffrey, 2010). It is also linked to more job absences, accidents, and injuries (Zwerling, 1990). How can people get treatment for marijuana addiction? Long-term marijuana users trying to quit report withdrawal symptoms that make quitting difficult. These include: grouchiness 5 Differences Between Hemp and Marijuana 5 Differences Between Hemp and Marijuana (Photo: Pixabay) Hemp and marijuana are two popular names for the cannabis plant. The word cannabis often brings to mind images of a burning joint or a bong filling up with white smoke. Most of the time, the term wouldn’t be equated with plant-based plastics, durable paper or military grade fabric. But in reality, cannabis has just as much to do with these industrial hemp products as it does with the recreational drug better known as marijuana or pot. This begs the question — how is hemp different from marijuana? 1. Genetics A 19th century illustration of Cannabis sativa (Photo: Wikimedia Commons) Cannabis is believed to be one of the oldest domesticated crops. Throughout history, humans have grown different varieties of cannabis for industrial and medical uses.

Tall, sturdy plants were grown by early civilizations to make a variety of foods, oils and textiles, such as rope and fabrics. These plants were bred with other plants with the same characteristics, leading to the type of cannabis we now know as hemp. Other plants were recognized for being psychoactive and were bred selectively for medical and religious purposes. This led to unique varieties of cannabis that we now know as marijuana. According to Dan Sutton of Tantulus Labs, a Canadian company that specializes in cannabis cultivation technology, “the core agricultural differences between medical cannabis and hemp are largely in their genetic parentage and cultivation environment.” In fact, scientists believe the early separation of the cannabis gene pool led to two distinct types of cannabis plants. The two species (or subspecies) of cannabis are known as Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa. 2. THC Content Chemical structure of tetrahydrocannabinol (Photo: Wikimedia Commons) Cannabis plants contain unique compounds called cannabinoids . Current research has revealed over 60 different cannabinoids so far, but THC is the most well known. THC is credited with causing the marijuana high. While marijuana plants contain high levels of THC, hemp contains very little of the psychoactive chemical.

This single difference is what most rely on to distinguish hemp from marijuana. For example, countries like Canada have set the maximum THC content of hemp at 0.3%. Any cannabis with higher THC levels is considered marijuana instead. In comparison, medical marijuana produces anywhere between 5-20% THC on average, with prize strains tipping the scale at 25-30% THC. Hemp and marijuana plants contain another important cannabinoid: CBD. Hemp plants produce more CBD than THC, while marijuana produces more THC than CBD. Interestingly, research has shown that CBD acts to reduce the psychoactive effects of THC, separating hemp further from marijuana. 3. Cultivation A hemp crop grown in Suffolk, England (Photo: Adrian Cable) Hemp and marijuana are grown for different uses, and therefore require different growing conditions. “Medical cannabis has been selectively bred over generations, and its characteristics are optimized in its cultivation environment to produce female flowering plants that yield budding flowers at the flowering stage of their life cycle,” explains Sutton.

In contrast, Sutton describes hemp plants as “primarily male, without representing flowering buds at any stage in their life cycle.” Instead, centuries of selective breeding have resulted in “relatively low concentrations of THC, and tall, fast growing plants optimized for higher stalk harvests.” Achieving maximum THC levels in marijuana is tricky and requires close attention to grow-room conditions. Marijuana growers usually aim to maintain stable light, temperature, humidity, CO2 and oxygen levels, among other things. On the other hand, hemp is usually grown outdoors to maximize its size and yield and less attention is paid to individual plants. 4. Legal Status A hemp-based skin balm sold in the U.S. (Photo: Maria Morri/Flickr) As you might already know, all cannabis is illegal to produce in the United States. Both hemp and marijuana are classified as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act. However, outside the U.S., hemp is grown in more than 30 countries. In 2011, the top hemp-producing country was China, followed by Chile and the European Union. Hemp production is also expanding in Canada, with the country’s annual crop reaching a record high of 66,700 acres in 2013.

Interesting enough, it is legal to import hemp products into the United States. According to the Hemp Industry Association , about $500 million worth of hemp product is imported every year. Marijuana, on the other hand, remains illegal in most countries. A few, such as Israel and Canada, have recently started to regulate marijuana as a medicine. But the legal production of marijuana is subject to stricter rules than hemp, since it is still widely considered a narcotic. 5. Research Dr. Jan Slaski and Dr. John Wolodko of Alberta Innovates-Technology Futures conduct research on hemp fibre products. (Photo: AITF) The strict laws surrounding both forms of cannabis — hemp and marijuana — makes any research very difficult. “The political implications of that scheduling, from a research perspective, are limiting,” explains Sutton. “To my knowledge, of the thousands of academic and research bodies in the United States and Canada whom would be equipped to perform agricultural or medical research on this unique species, only around 40 have actual research licenses to study the plant in a limited context.” Despite these barriers, researchers are making progress in understanding the way medical marijuana works to assist in managing an ever-expanding list of disorders.

What’s more, developments in hemp technology continue to reveal new and intriguing ways that this industrial plant can contribute to society in the future. Recently, researchers at the University of Alberta created a supercapacitor using raw hemp material, making the manufacturing of cheap, fast-charging batteries from hemp a real possibility. Hemp fibre is also being used to develop new forms of renewable plastic, which has made it a common material in the car parts industry. But as legalization spreads across the globe, the opportunities to explore the potential of the cannabis grows too. The possibilities are endless, and this is one thing hemp and marijuana have in common. Share: What Are The Active Ingredients Of Medical Marijuana What Are The Active Ingredients Of Medical Marijuana Toggle navigation Home › Guides › Medical Guides › About medical marijuana › The Active Ingredients Of Medical Marijuana Page content Flavonoids The medicinal and psychoactive effects that we associate with marijuana are caused by unique chemical structures called cannabinoids found in the actual plant. To date, there have been 86 cannabinoids identified in nature and others have been synthesized chemically. The major psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is delta-g-tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly referred to as THC (although other naming systems refer to it confusingly as delta-t-THC).

Other cannabinoids, in addition to THC, have medicinal or psychoactive elements. Cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabavarin (THCV), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), delta-8-THC, cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabitriol (CBT), and cannabielsoin are among the many different naturally-occurring cannabinoids. Most are known to have psychoactive and/or pharmacological properties just like many other synthetic cannabinoid analogs. THC Because of delta-9-THC’s psychoactive nature in marijuana, it is regularly used to measure the herb’s potency. THC typically occurs in concentrations of less than 0.5% for inactive hemp, 2 to 3% for marijuana leaf, and 4 to 20% for higher-grade marijuana. In seedless buds, known as sinsemilla , you’ll find the highest concentrations of THC in the plant at 10 to 20% or more. Higher concentrations of THC can be found in extracts, tonics, and hashish (concentrated cannabis resin).

Oral doses of THC range from 2.5 to 20 milligrams for therapeutic purposes. A regular joint (1 gram of 2.5% leaf or 0.5 grams of 5% higher-grade leaf) usually has 25 milligrams of THC. Over half of this amount is generally destroyed by combustion or is lost in side-stream smoke. Around 15 to 50% of the THC in a typical marijuana joint actually gets to the bloodstream, making the actual inhaled dose closer to 3 to 12 milligrams. Download my free marijuana grow guide at this link to read more about high THC strains THC will not naturally occur in its active form in the cannabis plant. Instead, it occurs in an acidic form called tetrahydrocannabinolic acid or THC acid (THCA). When burned in a cigarette or heated in cooking, the THCA is rapidly converted to active THC in a heat-propelled reaction called decarboxylation . Unlike THC, we have very little knowledge of THCA. We do know that it is not psychoactive, but it has been discovered to have immune-modulatory properties akin to other cannabinoids.

Eating marijuana raw will not produce any strong psychoactive effects because the THCA is essentially inactive. As marijuana ages, however, some of the THCA undergoes decarboxylation. The marijuana resin in hashish usually contains very high levels of active THC. Back to top CBD CBD is the next most common cannabinoid and is very prevalent in hemp varieties of cannabis. CBD actually lacks any noticeable psychoactive effects and does not really intereact with the body’s cannabinoid receptors. Despite that, plenty of evidence is starting to show that CBD has valuable medicinal properties. It works in concert with THC, augmenting its medical effects and moderating its psychoactive effects. Some researchers think that CBD has anti-psychotic properties which tend to reduce anxiety and panic reactions to THC. It is also considered to improve wakefulness and to supplement THC’s activity against pain and spasticity. Pretreatment with CBD in mice nearly tripled the levels of THC in their brains which is an indication that it can increase the action and effectiveness of other drugs. Cannabinoids definitely work together to provide the desired effect. If taken by itself, CBD has anti-inflammatory anti-anxiety, anti-epileptic, sedative, and neuro-protective properties.

It’s also quite a powerful anti-oxidant and can protect against chemical damage due to oxidation. Lab and animal tests have suggested that CBD could even protect against the incurrence of the following diseases: diabetes; certain types of cancer; rheumatoid arthritis; brain and nerve damage as a result of a stroke; alcoholism; Huntington’s disease; and even prion infections like “Mad Cow.” Other evidence suggests that CBD is biphasic, meaning that its effectiveness diminishes if the does is too high or too low. Download my free marijuana grow guide at this link for more information about CBD CBD is one of the major ingredients in Sativex, the cannabis spray the UK-based GW Pharmaceuticals is developing. The spray contains equal parts CBD and THC and has been approved for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis in Canada. GW is at the forefront of CBD research and has plans to study its effectiveness in treating arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, psychotic disorders, and epilepsy. CBD and THC acid (THCA) are produced simultaneously. In the marijuana plant, a cannabinoid called cannabigerolic acid is the precursor for both CBD and THCA. Each cannabinoid is produced by a different enzyme that acts on cannabigerolic acid.

Seeing as how CBD and THCA come from the same precursor, it’s hard to find plants that have high level of both. Hemp plants tend to lack the enzyme that produces THCA and, so, CBD is often very prevalent. Unfortunately, most marijuana that’s sold to consumers has significantly lower levels of CBD because growers tend to selectively breed out the CBD enzyme to produce more THC. Now that we know so much about the benefits of CBD, you might start seeing plants with higher levels of CBD in the future. Back to top CBN The third most common cannabinoid is CBN, which is more or less a byproduct of the chemical breakdown of THC. CBN lacks the strong psychoactive and medicinal qualities of THC and is usually found in degraded or poorly-preserved marijuana. Although cannabinoids get all the press, marijuana does contain over 100 terpenoids ( wiki ) which are aromatic chemicals that can also be found in pine trees, citrus flora, and other odoriferous plants. Terpenoids produce the unique aroma and flavor of marijuana, but many researchers believe that terpenoids might have significant medicinal effects. In comparison to the cannabinoids, little is really known about terpenoids in cannabis.

You’ll find more information about them in the Growing Medical Marijuana section Back to top Flavonoids Cannabis also has over 20 flavonoids which are chemicals common to most plant life. Some flavonoids (known as cannaflavins) are exclusive to cannabis. Most flavonoids are considered to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and could help prevent cancer and other major diseases. Marijuana-using veterans have reported different highs and medical effects for different types of cannabis. This effect is largely produced by the different chemical concentrations of cannabinoids, terpenoids , and flavonoids in every different type of marijuana. Want to grow start growing your own medical marijuana? Check out my marijuana seedshop for a wide selection of top-quality seeds. We ship to the United States, Canada, and number of other countries. Thanks for reading. Please leave comments or questions below and don’t forget to download my free grow bible . Robert Download the Ultimate Grow Guide for FREE!

Learn the basics of growing marijuana and get started today How to get the biggest yields from cannabis plants What you need to get started, without wasting money The most common mistakes you do not have to make Firstname Cannabis: Uses (Medical), Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com Cannabis Medically reviewed on Nov 13, 2016 by L. Anderson, PharmD What is cannabis? Cannabis sativa, also known as hemp, is a species of the Cannabinaceae family of plants. Cannabis is also known as Ganja, grass, Hashish, Hemp, Indian hemp, marijuana, Pot, reefer, weed. Cannabis contains the chemical compound THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol), which is believed to be responsible for most of the characteristic psychoactive effects of cannabis. The dried leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant are known as marijuana, which can be smoked (through a pipe or bong or hand-rolled into a joint) or taken orally with food (baked in cookies). The resinous secretions of the plant are known as hashish, which can be smoked or eaten. The fiber of the cannabis plant is cultivated as industrial hemp with uses in textile manufacturing.

Important information Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform other hazardous activities while using cannabis. It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment. Do not drink alcohol while using cannabis. Alcohol will increase dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment. Cannabis may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Cannabis is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act. What are the effects of cannabis? The effects experienced by the cannabis user are variable and will depend upon the dose, method of administration, prior experience, any concurrent drug use, personal expectations, mood state and the social environment in which the drug is used. Effects of cannabis include: an altered state of consciousness. The user may feel "high", very happy, euphoric, relaxed, sociable and uninhibited. distorted perceptions of time and space. The user may feel more sensitive to things around them, and may also experience a more vivid sense of taste, sight, smell and hearing.

increased pulse and heart rate, bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, and often increased appetite. impaired coordination and concentration, making activities such as driving a car or operating machinery difficult and dangerous. negative experiences, such as anxiousness, panic, self-consciousness and paranoid thoughts. People who use large quantities of cannabis may become sedated or disoriented and may experience toxic psychosis - not knowing who they are, where they are, or what time it is. High doses may also cause fluctuating emotions, fragmentary thoughts, paranoia, panic attacks, hallucinations and feelings of unreality. The effects of cannabis are felt within minutes, reach their peak in 10 to 30 minutes, and may linger for two or three hours. THC is highly lipid soluble and can be stored in fat cells potentially for several months. The stored THC is released very slowly, and unevenly, back into the bloodstream. Medical uses While cannabis remains a Schedule 1 substance, research has resulted in development and marketing of dronabinol and nabilone which are synthetic cannabinoid products.

Marinol (dronabinol) is used for the control of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapeutic agents used in the treatment of cancer and to stimulate appetite in AIDS patients. Cesamet (nabilone) is used for the control of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapeutic agents used in the treatment of cancer. Medical Cannabis (Medical Marijuana) Cachexia or dramatic weight loss and muscle atrophy (wasting syndrome) As of November 2016, 28 states and the District of Columbia legally allow cannabis for personal medical use. Rules surrounding the use of medical cannabis (medical marijuana) vary by state. The first state in the union to legalize the medical use of marijuana was California in 1996. States that allow medical marijuana include: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

It is important to recognize that these state marijuana laws do not change the fact that using marijuana continues to be an offense under Federal law. Medical marijuana in the U.S. is controlled at the state level. Per federal law, cannabis is illegal as noted in the Controlled Substances Act, but the federal government has stated they will not actively prosecute patients and caregivers complying with state medical marijuana laws. However, use of medical marijuana outside of the state laws for illegal use or trafficking will not be tolerated by state or federal government. CBD Oil or Realm Oil Several states are now considering or have passed bills to allow legalization of medical marijuana oil (CBD oil or Realm Oil) for intractable seizures in children with Dravet Syndrome. These children can suffer 40 or more seizures per day; the seizures are often prolonged in length. The oil is made a from a special strain of marijuana called “Charlotte's Web” that has extremely low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) , the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that leads to the “high”. However, the strain has elevated levels of cannabidiol, or CBD, a non-psychoactive component that has been shown to have a number of therapeutic benefits, including those that limit seizure activity.

The oil is taken in an oral liquid form, not smoked like traditional marijuana. News media has showcased several families from states that do not allow the CBD oil. These families have moved to Colorado from their home states to access the oil legally for their children who suffer from the debilitating seizures. Legislation is currently under review in several states to allow the oil for children with this debilitating seizure condition . Recreational Use of Cannabis In 2012, voters in Colorado and Washington state passed initiatives legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and older under state law. In November 2014, Oregon, Alaska, and Washington D.C also approved recreational use of marijuana. In November 2016, four more states - California, Massachusetts, Maine, and Nevada - voted in recreational marijuana. It is important to note that the federal government still considers cannabis a dangerous drug and that the illegal distribution and sale of marijuana is a serious crime. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), marijuana is still considered a Schedule 1 drug . Cultivation and distribution of marijuana are felonies; possession for personal use is a misdemeanor; possession of “paraphernalia” is also illegal.

Cultivating 100 plants or more carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years according to federal statutes. That being said, it is unlikely that the federal government is interested in pursuing individuals complying with state-mandated regulations surrounding legalized cannabis for recreational use, although the CSA law still gives them authority to do so. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has attempted to clarify this issue. On August 29, 2013, the DOJ issued guidance to Federal prosecutors concerning marijuana enforcement under the CSA. The DOJ is focused on priorities, such as: Preventing the distribution to minors Preventing revenues from sale of marijuana towards criminal activity Preventing diversion of marijuana from states where it is legal to states where it is not legal Preventing state-legalized marijuana from being a cover for other illegal drugs or activity Prevent violence and guns in the cultivation and distribution of marijuana Prevent drugged driving and other public health issues Prevent the use of public land for marijuana cultivation Preventing marijuana possession or use on federal property Additional states may undertake or pursue citizen petitions in the future to legalize the recreational use of cannabis. According to the Brookings Institute, Presidential years bring out an electorate more favorable to cannabis legalization than the off-year electorate.

A majority of Americans support legalization of marijuana - 52 percent pro versus 45 percent con - according to findings from a Pew Research Center survey in March 2013. Support for marijuana legalization has increased dramatically since 2010, by 11 percentage points. Specific city and county laws have been enacted to regulate how citizens and tourists may possess and consume marijuana. Penalties exist for driving while under the influence of marijuana. Someone driving under the influence of marijuana is considered impaired in both Colorado and Washington when five nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) of blood or more of active THC is detected. For more information see: Marijuana Cannabis side effects Long term effects of heavy use can include: irritation to the lungs, risk of developing chronic bronchitis and an increased risk of developing cancer of the respiratory tract (more likely to do with smoking). exacerbation of pre-existing cardiovascular disease, as cannabis use significantly raises the heart rate. decreased concentration levels, reduced short-term memory and difficulties with thinking and learning (resolved if cannabis use stops). decreased sex drive in some people. Chronic use can lower sperm count in males and lead to irregular periods in females (resolved if cannabis use stops).

dependence on cannabis - compulsive need to use the drug, coupled with problems associated with chronic drug use. What should I avoid? Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform other hazardous activities while using cannabis. Cannabis may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment. Do not drink alcohol while using cannabis. Alcohol will increase dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment. Cannabis may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Do not use cannabis if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. There is some evidence that women who smoke cannabis during the time of conception or while pregnant may increase the risk of their child being born with birth defects. Pregnant women who continue to smoke cannabis are probably at greater risk of giving birth to low birthweight babies. Do not use cannabis if you are breast-feeding a baby. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose include fatigue, lack of coordination, paranoia and psychosis. What other drugs will affect cannabis?

Cannabis may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. For more information on Drug Interactions, please visit the Drugs.com Drug Interactions Checker . Related: | Active ingredients Active ingredients The active ingredients of cannabis Cannabis contains a large variety of different chemical compounds. With already well over 500 known constituents, cannabis is one of the chemically best studied plants. But because most of these constituents have not yet been properly characterized for biological activity, the cannabis plant could be called a “”. Many of the cannabis constituents can also be found in other plant species. However, the cannabinoids are unique to the cannabis plant alone. Resin glands The most interesting constituents are those found in the secretions of resin glands (trichomes) distributed across the surface of the Cannabis plant. Although trichomes can be found all over the male and female plants, they are particularly concentrated in the area of the female flowers. The excreted resinous material is made up of a mixture of different chemicals, the most important of which are the cannabinoids and terpenes.

The outer layer of the excreted material is made up of a wax layer, which protects the other chemicals from oxidation and degradation. Because of its sparkly appearance under strong light, the resin glands are often referred to as ‘crystals’. Cannabinoids Cannabinoids are unique chemical structures that can only be found in the cannabis plant. They are generally accepted as the main medicinal ingredients of cannabis. The most commonly known cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is also the compound that is responsible for getting high after consuming larger amounts of cannabis. Because of this psychotropic effect, THC is often referred to as the active constituent of cannabis. However, already more than 70 different cannabinoids have been identified so far. These compounds have a chemical structure that is much related to THC, but their biological effects are quite different and they have (virtually) no psychotropic potential. It is becoming increasingly clear that such lesser known cannabinoids may have therapeutic use for certain medical conditions. The most important example of this is cannabidiol (CBD), which has shown potent anti-cancer and anti-psychotic effects.

Other cannabinoids which are under investigation include cannabigerol (CBG) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV). For those who enjoy chemistry, it should be noted that THC and CBD are present in the plant in their so-called acid-form. Only during heating of the flowers to high temperatures (such as during vaporizing, smoking, or baking) these ‘precursors’ are rapidly transformed into the more active compounds. Terpenes The are the chemicals that give cannabis its distinct smell. Cannabis contains a large number as well as a significant amount of terpenes. These compounds can be easily evaporated and are consequently inhaled by smoking or vaporizing. Already more than 120 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis, and there relative composition can be very different between cannabis strains. In fact, drug search dogs are trained to recognize specific terpenes in order to find cannabis. The cannabis terpenes have a wide range of known biological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antibiotic or analgesic. Some terpenes may also be involved in regulating and/or changing the effects of THC and other cannabinoids. Cannabis varieties Different strains of cannabis produce a different spectrum of chemical constituents.

Some constituents may be only produced by very specific strains, or the same constituents may be present, but in different relative amounts. As a result, the medicinal properties of cannabis strains may vary widely. Because of the large number of constituents to be considered, it is still very hard to study scientifically how the chemical composition of a cannabis strain is related to its effect on different medical conditions . The Dutch official cannabis grower Bedrocan is developing chemically distinct cannabis varieties with a different profile of cannabinoids and terpenes. At this moment, 4 different cannabis varieties are available through Dutch pharmacies. New varieties are being developed as part of Bedrocan’s ongoing Research and Development program. Any new variety needs to be fully standardized to guarantee a reproducible and reliable chemical composition. Marijuana - Toxipedia Toxipedia Publish this draft for everyone to see. What changed? Other users have edits for this page: Proceed Anyway Permanently discard changes to this page. This cannot be undone. Lead Editor: Maria M. Williams Overview Marijuana is derived from the Indian hemp plant, Cannabis sativa, a member of the Cannabaceae family.

All types of cannabis strains - both male and female plants - produce THC, the active ingredient that, when smoked or ingested, intoxicates the user. This substance can be detected in every part of the plant, including the stems. The highest concentration of THC, however, is found in the resin, which is most abundant in the flowers of female plants. Marijuana cannot be easily classified. It is described as a psychogenic (a cannabinoid), a narcotic (although it does not contain opium), and a hallucinogen (the USA government's designation). Each of these definitions, however, is a compromise. Opinion is further divided on whether the drug is a CNS stimulant or a depressant. Controversy also rages over marijuana's medicinal properties, which are alleged and denied fiercely by proponents and detractors, respectively. One fact remains indisputable: marijuana is the most abused illegal drug in the world. History The use of marijuana for both medicinal purposes and relaxation has a history almost as long as its other applications, such as paper or cloth.

The world's oldest known pharmacopeia, dated from the third century B.C., recognized the drug's psychoactive qualities and recommended its use as a painkiller, antidepressant, and sedative. Three thousand years later, during the second century A.D., a Chinese surgeon boiled hemp in wine to produce an anaesthetic he called ma fei san. From China, marijuana spread eastward. In India, its use as a drug began around 1,000 B.C., and it soon became an important part of Hindu religious rituals and meditation. Also, ancient Indian physicians prescribed marijuana for malaria and rheumatism, presumably for its analgesic qualities. Marijuana soon became popular in the Moslem world, partly because the Islamic faith forbade the use of alcohol. Over the centuries, Arab traders brought cannabis to east Africa, and from there it spread throughout the continent. By 400 A.D., hemp was being cultivated in Europe and in England. In the early part of the twentieth century, American soldiers fighting Pancho Villa in Mexico and civilians stationed in Panama during the construction of the canal discovered the intoxicating power of marijuana and brought it back to the States.

In the 1930s, the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, forerunner of today's Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), began a propaganda campaign that portrayed marijuana as a drug that led users to drug addiction, violence, and insanity. At that point, however, cannabis was not only legal, it was an approved medication frequently prescribed by doctors. Marijuana's status changed drastically in 1937, when the Marijuana Tax Act effectively criminalized its use and possession, even for medical reasons. Chemical Composition More than 400 chemical compounds have been identified in marijuana. Approximately 60 of these are unique to the cannabis plant and these substances are called cannabinoids. Of the cannabinoids, a group of isomers called tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) are thought to be the most psychoactive. These are ∆1-THC (also called ∆9-THC) and ∆6-THC (also called ∆8-THC). Other cannabinoids include cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN). Their role in marijuana intoxication is not completelly understood.

The amount of THC produced depends on the strain of cannabis and on environmental factors such as growth, harvest, and storage conditions. Because marijuana is a natural product it can also harbor bacteria and fungi, some of which can be harmful if inhaled. Scientists have found bacteria such as Aspergillus, Salmonella, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, and Streptococcus on marijuana samples. This is especially significant for people with compromised immune systems, such as cancer or AIDS patients, many of whom may consider marijuana to counter some of the effects of their disease or treatments. Not all chemicals found in marijuana occur naturally. When the plant is burned for smoking, hundreds of additional chemicals are produced in the process. Among them are carbon monoxide, cyanide, benzopyrene, and tar. Additionally, any pesticides sprayed on the plant by the grower are present in the smoke, and are inhaled along with the THC. Types of Cannabis Indian cannabis. In India, where cannabis has been part of the culture for centuries, three types of cannabis are used. Bhang is the mildest of India's cannabis concoctions, and is usually eaten as a sweetmeat or consumed as a beverage.

It consists of dried cannabis leaves that are ground to a fine paste, mixed with a combination of sugar, spices, and fruit. Because the cannabis is ingested orally, the drug's effects are felt more slowly than when it is smoked. Bhang is the weakest of all cannabis preparations and generally has a low THC concentration. Ganja, like marijuana, is made from THC-rich cannabis flowers and resin. It is smoked (sometimes mixed with tobacco) in a pipe, a cigarette, or in bidis, small Indian cigars. Charas is the nearly pure concentrated resin of the cannabis plant. Like ganja, it is smoked, but its THC concentration is far higher. Marijuana. Marijuana is the dried tobacco-like leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant and is the most common form of the drug in the United States. Marijuana is usually smoked, although it is occasionally baked into foods such as brownies or brewed as tea for drinking. Hashish. Like charas, hashish is a highly potent, concentrated cannabis resin that has been collected, dried, and pressed into bricks. It is usually ingested by smoking. Hashish oil. It is extracted from the plant with a chemical solvent such as alcohol or butane.

Like hashish, it contains very high concentrations of THC. Hash oil is usually added to tobacco or marijuana cigarettes and is ingested by smoking. Drug combinations. Marijuana is frequently combined with other drugs, including heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, LSD, and ecstasy. Taking any combination of drugs is always risky because the effect of each drug is amplified and unpredictable. People on antidepressant medication such as tricyclics who also use marijuana can develop an accelerated heartbeat and high blood pressure, both of which can be dangerous over the long term. Patients who take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Paxil and Prozac, and also use marijuana, are at greater risk for severe psychotic episodes. When marijuana is combined with cocaine, the body's drug absorption rate doubles and the stress on the cardiovascular system can rise to dangerous levels since both drugs speed up the heart and raise blood pressure. Ingestion Methods Marijuana is usually ingested by smoking, often in joints (loosely rolled cigarettes), a water pipe, or a bong, which filters the smoke through water and is frequently employed when smoking hashish or charas. Marijuana can also be ingested orally, either mixed with other foods or brewed as a tea.

Scope and Severity Marijuana is by far the most frequently abused illegal drug worldwide. The Office of National Drug Control Policy stated in its 2001 Annual Report that about 80% of Americans abusing illegal drugs used marijuana. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), indicated in 2000 that marijuana is also more likely than other illegal drugs to be combined with other controlled substances. Marijuana is the most abused drug in the European Union. As in the United States, young people were much more likely than other age groups to have used marijuana. Reflecting their national trends, about 15% of the youth surveyed in Finland and Sweden had tried the drug, compared with highs of 28-40% in Denmark, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom. One group that is highly likely to use marijuana, however, cuts across racial, ethnic, and demographic lines: arrestees. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) found that those arrested for crimes were more likely to test positive for marijuana than any other drug.

Mental Effects Users often experience a mellow sense of well-being and relaxation that makes them feel expansive, creative, and more sensitive to all types of stimuli. Perception of time slows, and ability to gauge distance, depth, and speed accurately is distorted. Users can also spiral downward into anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, and hallucinations. This effect is more pronounced when larger doses of THC are ingested, such as when hashish or other more concentrated forms of marijuana are used. Higher doses are also possible when marijuana is eaten rather than smoked; this occurs when more of the drug is ingested before it can be metabolized. Within seconds of entering the bloodstream, the cannabinoids in marijuana bind to special areas in the brain called THC receptors. These regions, located throughout the brain, are heavily concentrated in the hippocampus, which controls learning and memory. This means that one of marijuana's most pronounced effects is its interference with the ability to form short-term memories. A 1996 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that heavy marijuana users, defined as those who ingest the drug on a daily or nearly daily basis, scored significantly lower on learning and other tests.

This most likely occurs because THC changes the way the brain processes new information; THC stifles neural activity in the hippocampus by suppressing acetylcholine release. Long-term use can cause changes in users' brains that are similar to those caused by other controlled substances. Physiological Effects While it is true that most people smoke marijuana precisely for its mental effects, they may not be aware of the physical changes that accompany the high. One of the drug's first effects is to raise the heart rate and blood pressure. The eyes become bloodshot and the pupils dilate; the mouth and throat also become dry. The appetite is stimulated, and users often become unusually hungry. At the same time, the cannabinoids in marijuana, already at work in the hippocampus, bind to THC receptors in other parts of the brain, including the basal ganglia, which govern the body's involuntary muscles, and the cerebellum, which controls coordination and sense of balance. These changes relax muscles all over the body, slowing reaction time and impairing the body's ability to move efficiently. When the high wears off, fatigue and torpor replace the creativity and hyperawareness users may experience initially.

Metabolism As the drug is broken down by the body, fat-soluble THC metabolites accumulate in the liver and other organs. Thirty percent of any one dose of THC is still in the body a week later, and smaller but still-detectable amounts are present two weeks after that. The more often marijuana is used, the greater the buildup in the body; heavy users' urine may show traces of the drug more than a month after the last dose. Harmful Side Effects Despite a popular myth that cannabis use is harmless, marijuana smoke, like cigarette smoke, contains cyanide, as well as higher levels of benzopyrene and carbon monoxide. Marijuana joints the same size as a cigarette produce five times the carbon monoxide in subjects' blood. Smoking marijuana produces three to four times the tar of tobacco, and more of it stays in the lungs. Because marijuana smoke is inhaled more deeply and held far longer in the lungs than tobacco smoke, damage to the delicate pleural tissues is as or more pronounced. Some researchers equate one joint to five cigarettes; others contend that three to four joints are as damaging as a pack of cigarettes.

Women who smoke marijuana during pregnancy may have low birth-weight babies who are at risk for developmental difficulties and are more susceptible to disease. Like other drugs, THC also crosses the placental barrier and affects the embryo as it grows; some studies indicate that this may increase a baby's risk of developing leukemia. THC also passes into breast milk, where research has shown that it can affect a child's motor development. Toddlers whose parents smoke marijuana have been found to be angrier and to have more behavioral problems than children whose parents do not use marijuana. Long-term Health Effects Marijuana smokers are at higher risk than nonusers for chronic lung diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, lung infections, and emphysema. Research also indicates that heavy marijuana use can lead to the DNA damage and cellular changes that produce lung cancer; these changes appeared to occur in marijuana smokers at anearlier age than in tobacco smokers. Cancers of the head and neck are also more common in marijuana smokers. People who smoke both marijuana and tobacco are at an even higher risk of serious disease. In men, heavy long-term marijuana use can lead to lowered sperm counts and even impotence.

It can also cause a hormone imbalance that leads to gynecomastia, the development of feminine breasts. Women who abuse marijuana may experience menstrual cycles that are off balance. Reactions with Other Drugs or Substances As noted above, marijuana is frequently combined with other drugs. Sometimes joints or blunts are laced with PCP, crack, heroin, or other controlled substances; at other times, marijuana is used along with drugs like alcohol or cocaine. Any such drug combination amplifies the effect of both substances, sometimes dangerously. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration showed that a combined dose of alcohol and marijuana was far more debilitating than either one alone. Using marijuana with LSD or other hallucinogens increases the psychotropic effect, sometimes adversely. Combining marijuana with cocaine increases the already measurable stress that each drug independently exerts on the cardiovascular system. Treatment and Rehabilitation Experts are divided on whether or not heavy, long-term marijuana use causes the same kind of addiction that opium or crack does. Evidence shows that daily marijuana use over time can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as aggression, irritability, and stomach pains; these are hallmarks of addiction. Also, long-term use can cause some of the same destructive brain changes as those found in other types of drug addictions.

Studies in 1997 showed that THC causes a dopamine release in the brains of rats equivalent to that seen with heroin. It is estimated that more than 120,000 people seek treatment for marijuana dependence each year, indicating that at the very least marijuana use can become an overwhelming compulsion that is extremely difficult to break. After alcohol and nicotine, marijuana is the drug on which more people become dependent than any other. Dependence is greatly increased by the additional abuse of another drug (particularly alcohol) and the presence of psychiatric disorders. In addition, young people seem especially vulnerable to marijuana dependence. In a 1998 study, out of a group of 229 adolescents already dependent on one substance (usually alcohol), 83% ofthose who tried marijuana six or more times became dependent on it as well. Most of these young people also showed symptoms of antisocial/behavioral problems. The first step in treating marijuana dependence is detoxification. This is a series of medical and nutritional therapies designed to help the patient through withdrawal symptoms by eliminating drugs from the body. Once detox has been accomplished, psychological counseling and education programs help users face life without depending on drugs. However, success is not guaranteed.

Users relapse frequently, sometimes merely shifting their dependence from marijuana to alcohol or another drug. Consequences Heavy users with an average daily intake of three to five joints are likely to have problems in all aspects of their lives, both at home and at work, ranging from strained familial relationships to job loss. They are also more likely to exhibit neurotic or even psychotic behavior. Research shows that marijuana users, especially heavy users, end up in the hospital more frequently than nonusers, often from injuries. One of the worst aspects of heavy marijuana use may be what researchers call the "amotivational syndrome" that robs people of their ambition, drive, and energy. A 2000 study showed that teenagers who use marijuana drop out of high school at more than twice the rate of nonusers; those who also abuse other drugs have even higher dropout rates. Teenagers who face legal consequences because of their marijuana use may jeopardize their chance of getting financial aid for college. Applications for students requesting federal college loans ask whether or not they have ever been convicted on state or federal drug charges. An affirmative answer - or none at all - will hold up the application and may well cause the application to be rejected.

Marijuana users will find that many employers weed out substance abusers, because they are much more likely to be absent or have on-the-job accidents. In 1996, about a third of all potential hires were screened for drug use. At major corporations, the figure was 81%, and in the top-ranked Fortune 200 companies, it rose to 98%. Standards at many federal agencies are even more stringent: the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will disqualify applicants who had used marijuana within the past three years or a total of 15 times altogether. Legal History Until the twentieth century, cannabis was a legal product in every state. It was an accepted medication for a variety of conditions, and a frequent ingredient in patent medicines. In 1906, the Pure Food and Drug Act forbade "the manufacture, sale, or transportation of adulterated or misbranded or poisonous or deleterious foods, drugs, medicines, and liquors," including those containing cannabis. The law put most patent medicine manufacturers out of business. By 1931, 29 states had outlawed marijuana.

In 1937, Congress passed the Marijuana Tax Act, which effectively criminalized marijuana possession anywhere in the United States, even for ostensibly medicinal use. In the 1950s, federal penalties increased further: a firsttime marijuana conviction could mean as much as 10 years in jail and up to $20,000 in fines. Beginning in the 1960s, however, the perception of marijuana as a relatively harmless drug gained popular acceptance, particularly among the young. In 1970, Congress lifted many mandatory sentences for drug crimes. The Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act allowed possession of small amounts of marijuana, although the drug remained a controlled substance, and large-scale trafficking was heavily penalized. After years of relative tolerance, however, mandatory sentences for drug-related crimes were reinstated in 1986 by the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, which tied criminal penalties to the quantities of drugs involved. Later amendments to the act further tightened the judicial noose with a "three-strikes" clause and capital punishment for high-level criminals.

Marijuana trafficking is vigorously prosecuted in the United States, with the FBI reporting that nearly half of its 1.5 million drug arrests in 2000 were for marijuana. More than 87% of these arrests were for possession. First-offense convictions for possession of less than 110 lbs (50 kg) of marijuana are punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 for an individual. Those convicted of possessing more than 2,205 lbs (1,000 kg) of marijuana face up to life in prison and fines of up to $4,000,000. References 1. Blachford S.L. and Krapp K. eds. Drugs and Controlled Substances Information for Students, Detroit:Thomson Gale, 2003. 2. Emmett D. and Nice G. Understanding Street Drugs. 2d ed. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2006.

Question: What plant contains the chemical THC?
Answer: Cannabis