The document discusses the medical effects and risks associated with recreational marijuana, highlighting its definition, active ingredient (THC), and delivery methods. It presents data from Colorado, noting increased hospital admissions, accidents, crime, and mental health issues linked to marijuana use, as well as the potential for addiction. It contrasts the temporary euphoric effects of marijuana with significant long-term health risks, including cancer, cognitive decline, and increased cardiovascular risks.

1. Medical Effects of Recreational
Marijuana
Tobin Rummel
Calvary Chapel Corvallis
Nov. 8, 2015

2. Definition
Recreational Marijuana/ Hashish/ Pot:
– The dried leaves and flowers of the Hemp plant (Cannabis sativa)
– Used for its Euphoric effect (heighten perception, affect mood, relax)
– Primary active ingredient: Tetra-Hydro-Cannabinol (THC)
– Many delivery methods (more on this later)
– Legal in Oregon for those over age 21 starting October 1, 2015
However…
– It Continues to be Illegal Federally

3. Colorado as an Example
• In the 1st year: 2 overdose deaths
• 17.1% Average THC (was 1-2% in the 1970’s)
– Nearly impossible to find <5% TCH now
• Increase in Heroin use (Gateway drug effect)
• 92% increase in THC related MVA’s
• 32% increase in MVA deaths associated with THC
• Decreased academic performance with 40% increase in suspensions/
expulsions.
• 12.3% increase in crime in Denver
• More marijuana centers than pharmacies
From: Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area September 2015

4. Colorado as an Example
• 6500 Hospital admissions yearly
– In drugs, 2nd only to Alcohol, more than Meth
• 365% increase in diversion (end user not the intended recipient =
illegal)
• 2033% increase in mail interceptions to illegal states
• 32 THC lab explosions in 2014
– 30 Injured
• 52.5 million in CO tax revenue
• Increased Homelessness

5. Side Effects
• Red eyes
• Lethargy
• Decreased Coordination
– 27% of injured drivers in Colorado tested positive for THC … before it
was even recreationally legal!
• Decreased Motivation

6. Medical Risks
• Head and Neck Cancer
• Psychosis (especially in those with family history of mental
health diagnosis)
• Lung Cancer
• Reproductive Dysfunction
– (Yes, that does include problems with sex!!!)
• Addictive (4.2 million in 2013 USA)

7. Medical Risks
• 4x the risk of heart attack and stroke within 1 hr of use
• 50-70% more carcinogens than tobacco smoke
• Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Depression, Anxiety Increased
• Memory, Learning, Attention, Reaction times decreased up to
28 days after last use
• Decreased birth weight and brain development when used in
pregnancy
• Decreased Cognitive development if used by adolescents

8. Medical Risks
• Contaminates
– Fungus (pneumonia)
– Bacteria (pneumonia)
– Heavy Metals
– Pesticides
• 8 point average decline (permanent) in IQ for regular
adolescent users
• Amotivational Syndrome
• Skin Rashes and Faster Skin Ageing

9. Marijuana Withdrawal
• 1-6 days after last use
• Last up to 2 weeks
• Irritability, anger, nervousness, tension, restlessness, reduced
appetite, insomnia, sleep difficulties, dysphoria, cravings, chills,
stomach pain, shakiness, sweating.
• 9% of recreational users become addicted
• 17% of adolescent recreational users become addicted

10. Medical: Puff or Pass?
• Puff
– Temporary
Heightened
Perception
– Temporary Altered
mood
– Temporary Relaxation
• Pass
– Decreased Early Death Risk
– Less Cancer Risk
– Better Sex
– Less Psychosis Risk
– Avoid Addiction
– Maintain Motivation
– Avoid Heart Attack Risk
– Maintain IQ
– Decreased Pneumonia Risk
– Healthy Skin
– Many more…