10 Facts About Marijuana
Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the U.S. and the world, and was a well-established medicine until it was federally criminalized in 1937. A majority of Americans believe marijuana should be legally regulated.
Fact #1: Roughly 750,000 people are arrested for marijuana each year, the vast majority of them for simple possession, with racial minorities over-represented.
Approximately 750,000 people were arrested for marijuana law violations in 2012 according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s annual Uniform Crime Report – comprising about half (48 percent) of all drug arrests in the United States; that’s one marijuana arrest every 42 seconds. A decade ago, marijuana arrests comprised just 44 percent of all drug arrests. Approximately 42 percent of all drug arrests nationwide are for marijuana possession. Of total arrests for marijuana law violations, more than 87 percent were for simple possession, not sale or manufacture. There are more arrests for marijuana possession every year than for all violent crimes combined.
A marijuana arrest is no small matter. Most people are handcuffed, placed in a police car, taken to a police station, fingerprinted and photographed, held in jail for 24 hours or more, and then arraigned before a judge. The arrest creates a permanent criminal record that can easily be found on the internet by employers, landlords, schools, credit agencies and banks. The collateral sanctions of a marijuana possession arrest can include loss of employment, financial aid, housing and child custody.
The criminalization of marijuana in the early 20th century was not based on any scientific assessment of its risks – but rather racial prejudice and politics. The first anti-marijuana laws, in the Midwest and the Southwest during the 1910s and 20s, were directed at Mexican migrants and Mexican Americans. Artists and performers – especially black jazz musicians – were common targets. Today, Latino and black communities are still subject to wildly disproportionate marijuana enforcement practices, even though these groups are no more likely than whites to use or sell marijuana.
According to a 2012 ACLU report, Black people are 3.7 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people despite comparable usage rates. Furthermore, in counties with the worst disparities, Blacks were as much as 30 times more likely to be arrested.
States spent an estimated $3.61 billion enforcing marijuana possession laws in 2010 alone. New York and California combined spent over $1 billion according to the ACLU report.
Fact #2: Most marijuana users never use any other illicit drug.
Marijuana is the most popular and easily accessible illegal drug in the United States today. Therefore, people who have used less accessible drugs such as heroin, cocaine and LSD, are likely to have also used marijuana. Most marijuana users never use any other illegal drug and the vast majority of those who do try another drug never become addicted or go on to have associated problems. Indeed, for the large majority of people, marijuana is a terminus rather than a so-called gateway drug. New evidence suggests that marijuana can function as an "exit drug" helping people reduce or eliminate their use of more harmful drugs by easing withdrawal symptoms.
Fact #3: Increasing admissions for treatment are a reflection of the criminal justice system’s predominant role, rather than increasing rates of clinical dependence.
A landmark, Congressionally-mandated Institute of Medicine study found that fewer than 10 percent of those who try marijuana ever meet the clinical criteria for dependence, while 32 percent of tobacco users and 15 percent of alcohol users do. As a result of treatment-instead-of-incarceration policies implemented over the past two decades to stem the skyrocketing U.S. prison population, marijuana treatment admissions referred by the criminal justice system rose from 48 percent in 1992 to 52 percent in 2011. Just 45 percent of people who enter marijuana treatment meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for marijuana dependence. More than a third hadn’t used marijuana in the 30 days prior to admission for treatment. Many people are “discovered” due to the smell of marijuana and forced to choose between jail and treatment. Treatment providers support drug courts because they ensure a steady stream of clients. Even with this increase in court-mandated marijuana treatment, only 1.1% of marijuana users 12 and older in 2011 went to treatment for it. Twice as many people were arrested for simple marijuana possession that year than entered treatment for marijuana dependence (750,000 vs. 333,578).
Fact #4: Marijuana potency is not related to risk of dependence or health impacts.
Although marijuana potency has reportedly increased in recent decades, this is largely due to prohibition. When access to a particular substance is sporadic, risky and limited, both consumers and producers are incentivized to use or sell higher potency material. We saw a similar trend during alcohol prohibition, when beer and cider were largely replaced by spirits and hard liquor, which was easier and more profitable to transport. When access is regulated and controlled, like in medical marijuana states, we see a wider variety of potencies, including marijuana with virtually no traces of psychoactive THC but high in cannabidiol (CBD), which is highly therapeutic but not psychoactive.
In any case, potency is not related to risks of dependence or health impacts. THC is virtually non-toxic to healthy cells or organs, and is incapable of causing a fatal overdose. Currently, doctors may legally prescribe Marinol, an FDA-approved pill that contains 100 percent THC – but, critically, lacks other therapeutic, non-psychoactive compounds found in marijuana. The Food and Drug Administration found THC to be safe and effective for the treatment of nausea, vomiting and wasting diseases. When consumers encounter strong varieties of marijuana, they adjust their use accordingly and smoke less.
Fact #5: Marijuana can be good for mental health.
Many opponents of medical marijuana make much of the purported link between marijuana use and mental illness. But there is simply no compelling evidence to support the claim that marijuana is a causal risk factor for developing a psychiatric disorder in otherwise healthy individuals. Most tellingly, population-level rates of schizophrenia or other psychiatric illnesses have remained flat even when marijuana use rates have increased. Emerging evidence indicates that patients who have tried marijuana may show significant improvements in symptoms and clinical outcomes (such as lower mortality rates and better cognitive functioning ) compared with those who have not. In fact, some of the unique chemicals in marijuana, such as cannabidiol (CBD), seem to have anti-psychotic properties. Researchers are investigating marijuana as a possible source of future schizophrenia treatments; until it is legalized, however, this research is significantly impeded.
Rates of mental illness have remained stable in light of changes in marijuana consumption levels. For example, when marijuana use rates have increased, there have been no increases in schizophrenia diagnoses. We do see these types of correlations, however for other behaviors that are connected. For example, rates of diabetes in the U.S. have increased as obesity rates have increased. This is not to say, however, that there is no relationship between psychoactive substances and mental functioning. Some effects of marijuana use can include feelings of panic, anxiety and paranoia. Such experiences can be frightening, but the effects are temporary.
Some psychoactive substances have been shown to improve mental health functioning and some do not. Recent research at the University Medical Center Utrecht in the Netherlands concluded that the endocannabinoid system is responsible for making chemicals that combat mental health conditions such as depression. Stimulating the endocannbinoid system via the use of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant might hold promise as a treatment for depressions and other mental health conditions. Part of the reason that is it so difficult to detangle psychoactive substance use from mental health is age of onset. For most people, symptoms of mental disturbance occur in the late teens and early 20’s. While it is impossible to predict who will develop a mental disturbance, there seem to be some ties to genetics and to behavioral cues in early childhood. Those who have risk factors, such as a family history of mental health issues, should be cautious in their exposure to all substances that have any intoxicating effects. Unfortunately, in adolescence, teens are more likely to experiment with intoxicants and less likely to be open with their parents about their drug use and/or any symptoms of mental disturbance they may be experiencing. As a result, drug and alcohol use has usually already started by the time symptoms of mental illness become noticeable. This is why we see so many studies that confirm that most people diagnosed with severe mental illness have had a history of alcohol and drug use. The alcohol and drug use was not the cause of the mental illness, but rather a behavior that coincides with the undetected development of mental health symptoms. In fact, research suggests that those with mental illness might be self-medicating with marijuana. One study demonstrated that psychotic symptoms predict later use of marijuana, suggesting that people might turn to the plant for help rather than become ill after use.
These findings have been replicated by myriad other studies, including a new study conducted by Harvard University researchers, which found that marijuana “is unlikely to be the cause of illness,” even in people who may be genetically predisposed to schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders. The researchers concluded, "In summary, we conclude that cannabis does not cause psychosis by itself. In genetically vulnerable individuals, while cannabis may modify the illness onset, severity and outcome, there is no evidence from this study that it can cause the psychosis."
Encouraging an open dialogue with adolescents about their drug use and paying attention to their behavior during the teen years are better prevention tools toward the future development of mental illness than to simply blame marijuana.
Fact #6: Marijuana can be protective against the formation of cancer.
Several longitudinal studies have established that even long-term marijuana smoking is not associated with elevated cancer risk, including tobacco-related cancers or with colorectal, lung, melanoma, prostate, breast or cervix. A 2009 population-based case-control study found that moderate marijuana smoking over a 20-year period was associated with reduced risk of head and neck cancer. And a five-year-long population-based case-control study found even long-term heavy marijuana smoking was not associated with lung cancer or upper aerodigestive tract cancers.[5] In fact, some of the chemicals in marijuana, such as THC and especially CBD, have been found to induce tumor cell death and show potential as effective tools in treating cancer. Scientists who have conducted this type of research, such as UCLA’s Donald Tashkin, hypothesize that the anti-oxidant properties of cannabis might override any cancer causing chemicals found in marijuana smoke, therefore protecting the body against the impact of smoking. Newer research indicates that marijuana has anti-cancer properties and could one day unlock new cancer treatments.
Moreover, marijuana smoking is not associated with any other permanent lung harms, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), emphysema or reduced lung function – even after years of frequent use.
Fact #7: Marijuana has been proven helpful for treating the symptoms of a variety of medical conditions. The body's endocannabinoid system may explain why.
For many seriously ill people, medical marijuana is the only medicine that relieves their pain and suffering, or treats symptoms of their medical condition, without debilitating side effects.
Marijuana’s medicinal benefits are incontrovertible, now proven by decades of peer-reviewed, controlled studies published in highly respected medical journals. Marijuana has been shown to alleviate symptoms of wide range of debilitating medical conditions including cancer, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s Disease, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), epilepsy, Crohn’s Disease, and glaucoma, and is often an effective alternative to narcotic painkillers.
Evidence of marijuana’s efficacy in treating severe and intractable pain is particularly impressive. Researchers at the University of California conducted a decade of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials on the medical utility of inhaled marijuana, concluding that marijuana should be a “first line treatment” for patients with painful neuropathy, who often do not respond to other available treatments.
Marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing the nausea induced by cancer chemotherapy, stimulating appetite in AIDS patients, and reducing intraocular pressure in people with glaucoma. There is also appreciable evidence that marijuana reduces muscle spasticity in patients with neurological disorders. Marijuana has also been shown to help with mental health conditions, particularly PTSD. In 2013, both Maine and Oregon added PTSD to the list of conditions that qualifies for medical marijuana. A synthetic capsule is available by prescription, but it is not as effective as smoked marijuana for many patients.
Our bodies contain a regulatory framework called the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for maintaining balance or homeostasis in the body. Some scientists theorize that a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system may contribute to certain diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, which may explain why the introduction of phyto-cannabinoids (from the marijuana plant) help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
Although an overwhelming majority of Americans support medical marijuana, the federal government continues to impede state medical marijuana laws. Marijuana prohibition has also thwarted research within the United States to uncover the best and most effective uses for marijuana as a medicine, making efforts to reform medical marijuana laws particularly difficult. Learn more about medical marijuana.
Fact #8: Rates of marijuana use among young people tend to DECREASE when a state adopts medical marijuana.
A common concern raised by people opposed to removing marijuana from the illicit market is the impact on teen marijuana use. Several recent reports have examined that question and found that, in the majority of medical marijuana states, youth used decreased after the medical marijuana law was passed. This has been attributed to a diminishing of the “forbidden fruit” effect, and decreased access as marijuana moved from the streets to inside licensed dispensaries.
A recent study sought to determine the effect of medical marijuana laws on adolescent marijuana use. The authors concluded, “Our results are not consistent with the hypothesis that the legalization of medical marijuana caused an increase in the use of marijuana and other substances among high school students. In fact, estimates from our preferred specification are small, consistently negative, and are never statistically distinguishable from zero. Using the 95 percent confidence interval around these estimates suggests that the impact of legalizing medical marijuana on the probability of marijuana use in the past 30 days is no larger than 0.8 percentage points, and the impact of legalization on the probability of frequent marijuana use in the past 30 days is no larger than 0.7 percentage points.
In addition to the impact on youth use, the decriminalization of marijuana has not been found to have an impact on adult use. A study conducted by the Institute of Medicine concluded, “In sum, there is little evidence that decriminalization of marijuana use necessarily leads to a substantial increase in marijuana use.
Fact #9: Marijuana does not cause long-term cognitive impairment in adult users.
The short-term effects of marijuana include immediate, temporary changes in thoughts, perceptions and information processing. The cognitive process most clearly affected by marijuana is short-term memory. In laboratory studies, subjects under the influence of marijuana have no trouble remembering things they learned previously. However, they temporarily display diminished capacity to learn and recall new information. This diminishment only lasts for the duration of the intoxication. There is no convincing evidence that heavy long-term marijuana use permanently impairs memory or other cognitive functions. A recent, large-scale, longitudinal study of adult marijuana users corroborates earlier findings that marijuana produces no long-term negative effects on cognition, stating, "The adverse impacts of cannabis use on cognitive functions either appear to be related to pre-existing factors or are reversible . . . even after potentially extended periods of use." However, it is not recommended that adolescents use marijuana unless under the care of a physician, as some research suggests potentially negative cognitive effects for adolescents who use marijuana.
Fact #10: There is no compelling evidence that marijuana contributes substantially to traffic accidents and fatalities.
At some doses, marijuana affects perception and psychomotor performance – changes that could impair driving ability. However, in actual driving studies, marijuana produces little or no car-handling impairment – consistently less than produced by moderate doses of alcohol and many legal medications. In contrast to alcohol, which tends to increase risky driving practices, marijuana tends to make subjects more cautious. Surveys of fatally injured drivers show that when THC is detected in the blood, alcohol is almost always detected as well. For some individuals, marijuana may play a role in bad driving, yet the overall rate of highway accidents appears not to be significantly affected by marijuana's widespread use in society. Frequent marijuana consumers, moreover, appear to develop a tolerance to marijuana’s impairing effects. Furthermore, as a result of marijuana’s criminalization, harm reduction options that exist for alcohol consumption – such as designated driver education, alternate transportation from drinking establishments, and easily accessible information about how alcohol dosage effects one’s physical and mental functioning – are not available for marijuana use. If marijuana were legally controlled and regulated, public education about using marijuana safely could be provided. Finally, available evidence indicates that medical marijuana laws do not increase – and in fact may decrease – traffic fatalities.
Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the U.S. and the world, and was a well-established medicine until it was federally criminalized in 1937. A majority of Americans believe marijuana should be legally regulated.
Fact #1: Roughly 750,000 people are arrested for marijuana each year, the vast majority of them for simple possession, with racial minorities over-represented.
Approximately 750,000 people were arrested for marijuana law violations in 2012 according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s annual Uniform Crime Report – comprising about half (48 percent) of all drug arrests in the United States; that’s one marijuana arrest every 42 seconds. A decade ago, marijuana arrests comprised just 44 percent of all drug arrests. Approximately 42 percent of all drug arrests nationwide are for marijuana possession. Of total arrests for marijuana law violations, more than 87 percent were for simple possession, not sale or manufacture. There are more arrests for marijuana possession every year than for all violent crimes combined.
A marijuana arrest is no small matter. Most people are handcuffed, placed in a police car, taken to a police station, fingerprinted and photographed, held in jail for 24 hours or more, and then arraigned before a judge. The arrest creates a permanent criminal record that can easily be found on the internet by employers, landlords, schools, credit agencies and banks. The collateral sanctions of a marijuana possession arrest can include loss of employment, financial aid, housing and child custody.
The criminalization of marijuana in the early 20th century was not based on any scientific assessment of its risks – but rather racial prejudice and politics. The first anti-marijuana laws, in the Midwest and the Southwest during the 1910s and 20s, were directed at Mexican migrants and Mexican Americans. Artists and performers – especially black jazz musicians – were common targets. Today, Latino and black communities are still subject to wildly disproportionate marijuana enforcement practices, even though these groups are no more likely than whites to use or sell marijuana.
According to a 2012 ACLU report, Black people are 3.7 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people despite comparable usage rates. Furthermore, in counties with the worst disparities, Blacks were as much as 30 times more likely to be arrested.
States spent an estimated $3.61 billion enforcing marijuana possession laws in 2010 alone. New York and California combined spent over $1 billion according to the ACLU report.
Fact #2: Most marijuana users never use any other illicit drug.
Marijuana is the most popular and easily accessible illegal drug in the United States today. Therefore, people who have used less accessible drugs such as heroin, cocaine and LSD, are likely to have also used marijuana. Most marijuana users never use any other illegal drug and the vast majority of those who do try another drug never become addicted or go on to have associated problems. Indeed, for the large majority of people, marijuana is a terminus rather than a so-called gateway drug. New evidence suggests that marijuana can function as an "exit drug" helping people reduce or eliminate their use of more harmful drugs by easing withdrawal symptoms.
Fact #3: Increasing admissions for treatment are a reflection of the criminal justice system’s predominant role, rather than increasing rates of clinical dependence.
A landmark, Congressionally-mandated Institute of Medicine study found that fewer than 10 percent of those who try marijuana ever meet the clinical criteria for dependence, while 32 percent of tobacco users and 15 percent of alcohol users do. As a result of treatment-instead-of-incarceration policies implemented over the past two decades to stem the skyrocketing U.S. prison population, marijuana treatment admissions referred by the criminal justice system rose from 48 percent in 1992 to 52 percent in 2011. Just 45 percent of people who enter marijuana treatment meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for marijuana dependence. More than a third hadn’t used marijuana in the 30 days prior to admission for treatment. Many people are “discovered” due to the smell of marijuana and forced to choose between jail and treatment. Treatment providers support drug courts because they ensure a steady stream of clients. Even with this increase in court-mandated marijuana treatment, only 1.1% of marijuana users 12 and older in 2011 went to treatment for it. Twice as many people were arrested for simple marijuana possession that year than entered treatment for marijuana dependence (750,000 vs. 333,578).
Fact #4: Marijuana potency is not related to risk of dependence or health impacts.
Although marijuana potency has reportedly increased in recent decades, this is largely due to prohibition. When access to a particular substance is sporadic, risky and limited, both consumers and producers are incentivized to use or sell higher potency material. We saw a similar trend during alcohol prohibition, when beer and cider were largely replaced by spirits and hard liquor, which was easier and more profitable to transport. When access is regulated and controlled, like in medical marijuana states, we see a wider variety of potencies, including marijuana with virtually no traces of psychoactive THC but high in cannabidiol (CBD), which is highly therapeutic but not psychoactive.
In any case, potency is not related to risks of dependence or health impacts. THC is virtually non-toxic to healthy cells or organs, and is incapable of causing a fatal overdose. Currently, doctors may legally prescribe Marinol, an FDA-approved pill that contains 100 percent THC – but, critically, lacks other therapeutic, non-psychoactive compounds found in marijuana. The Food and Drug Administration found THC to be safe and effective for the treatment of nausea, vomiting and wasting diseases. When consumers encounter strong varieties of marijuana, they adjust their use accordingly and smoke less.
Fact #5: Marijuana can be good for mental health.
Many opponents of medical marijuana make much of the purported link between marijuana use and mental illness. But there is simply no compelling evidence to support the claim that marijuana is a causal risk factor for developing a psychiatric disorder in otherwise healthy individuals. Most tellingly, population-level rates of schizophrenia or other psychiatric illnesses have remained flat even when marijuana use rates have increased. Emerging evidence indicates that patients who have tried marijuana may show significant improvements in symptoms and clinical outcomes (such as lower mortality rates and better cognitive functioning ) compared with those who have not. In fact, some of the unique chemicals in marijuana, such as cannabidiol (CBD), seem to have anti-psychotic properties. Researchers are investigating marijuana as a possible source of future schizophrenia treatments; until it is legalized, however, this research is significantly impeded.
Rates of mental illness have remained stable in light of changes in marijuana consumption levels. For example, when marijuana use rates have increased, there have been no increases in schizophrenia diagnoses. We do see these types of correlations, however for other behaviors that are connected. For example, rates of diabetes in the U.S. have increased as obesity rates have increased. This is not to say, however, that there is no relationship between psychoactive substances and mental functioning. Some effects of marijuana use can include feelings of panic, anxiety and paranoia. Such experiences can be frightening, but the effects are temporary.
Some psychoactive substances have been shown to improve mental health functioning and some do not. Recent research at the University Medical Center Utrecht in the Netherlands concluded that the endocannabinoid system is responsible for making chemicals that combat mental health conditions such as depression. Stimulating the endocannbinoid system via the use of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant might hold promise as a treatment for depressions and other mental health conditions. Part of the reason that is it so difficult to detangle psychoactive substance use from mental health is age of onset. For most people, symptoms of mental disturbance occur in the late teens and early 20’s. While it is impossible to predict who will develop a mental disturbance, there seem to be some ties to genetics and to behavioral cues in early childhood. Those who have risk factors, such as a family history of mental health issues, should be cautious in their exposure to all substances that have any intoxicating effects. Unfortunately, in adolescence, teens are more likely to experiment with intoxicants and less likely to be open with their parents about their drug use and/or any symptoms of mental disturbance they may be experiencing. As a result, drug and alcohol use has usually already started by the time symptoms of mental illness become noticeable. This is why we see so many studies that confirm that most people diagnosed with severe mental illness have had a history of alcohol and drug use. The alcohol and drug use was not the cause of the mental illness, but rather a behavior that coincides with the undetected development of mental health symptoms. In fact, research suggests that those with mental illness might be self-medicating with marijuana. One study demonstrated that psychotic symptoms predict later use of marijuana, suggesting that people might turn to the plant for help rather than become ill after use.
These findings have been replicated by myriad other studies, including a new study conducted by Harvard University researchers, which found that marijuana “is unlikely to be the cause of illness,” even in people who may be genetically predisposed to schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders. The researchers concluded, "In summary, we conclude that cannabis does not cause psychosis by itself. In genetically vulnerable individuals, while cannabis may modify the illness onset, severity and outcome, there is no evidence from this study that it can cause the psychosis."
Encouraging an open dialogue with adolescents about their drug use and paying attention to their behavior during the teen years are better prevention tools toward the future development of mental illness than to simply blame marijuana.
Fact #6: Marijuana can be protective against the formation of cancer.
Several longitudinal studies have established that even long-term marijuana smoking is not associated with elevated cancer risk, including tobacco-related cancers or with colorectal, lung, melanoma, prostate, breast or cervix. A 2009 population-based case-control study found that moderate marijuana smoking over a 20-year period was associated with reduced risk of head and neck cancer. And a five-year-long population-based case-control study found even long-term heavy marijuana smoking was not associated with lung cancer or upper aerodigestive tract cancers.[5] In fact, some of the chemicals in marijuana, such as THC and especially CBD, have been found to induce tumor cell death and show potential as effective tools in treating cancer. Scientists who have conducted this type of research, such as UCLA’s Donald Tashkin, hypothesize that the anti-oxidant properties of cannabis might override any cancer causing chemicals found in marijuana smoke, therefore protecting the body against the impact of smoking. Newer research indicates that marijuana has anti-cancer properties and could one day unlock new cancer treatments.
Moreover, marijuana smoking is not associated with any other permanent lung harms, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), emphysema or reduced lung function – even after years of frequent use.
Fact #7: Marijuana has been proven helpful for treating the symptoms of a variety of medical conditions. The body's endocannabinoid system may explain why.
For many seriously ill people, medical marijuana is the only medicine that relieves their pain and suffering, or treats symptoms of their medical condition, without debilitating side effects.
Marijuana’s medicinal benefits are incontrovertible, now proven by decades of peer-reviewed, controlled studies published in highly respected medical journals. Marijuana has been shown to alleviate symptoms of wide range of debilitating medical conditions including cancer, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s Disease, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), epilepsy, Crohn’s Disease, and glaucoma, and is often an effective alternative to narcotic painkillers.
Evidence of marijuana’s efficacy in treating severe and intractable pain is particularly impressive. Researchers at the University of California conducted a decade of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials on the medical utility of inhaled marijuana, concluding that marijuana should be a “first line treatment” for patients with painful neuropathy, who often do not respond to other available treatments.
Marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing the nausea induced by cancer chemotherapy, stimulating appetite in AIDS patients, and reducing intraocular pressure in people with glaucoma. There is also appreciable evidence that marijuana reduces muscle spasticity in patients with neurological disorders. Marijuana has also been shown to help with mental health conditions, particularly PTSD. In 2013, both Maine and Oregon added PTSD to the list of conditions that qualifies for medical marijuana. A synthetic capsule is available by prescription, but it is not as effective as smoked marijuana for many patients.
Our bodies contain a regulatory framework called the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for maintaining balance or homeostasis in the body. Some scientists theorize that a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system may contribute to certain diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, which may explain why the introduction of phyto-cannabinoids (from the marijuana plant) help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
Although an overwhelming majority of Americans support medical marijuana, the federal government continues to impede state medical marijuana laws. Marijuana prohibition has also thwarted research within the United States to uncover the best and most effective uses for marijuana as a medicine, making efforts to reform medical marijuana laws particularly difficult. Learn more about medical marijuana.
Fact #8: Rates of marijuana use among young people tend to DECREASE when a state adopts medical marijuana.
A common concern raised by people opposed to removing marijuana from the illicit market is the impact on teen marijuana use. Several recent reports have examined that question and found that, in the majority of medical marijuana states, youth used decreased after the medical marijuana law was passed. This has been attributed to a diminishing of the “forbidden fruit” effect, and decreased access as marijuana moved from the streets to inside licensed dispensaries.
A recent study sought to determine the effect of medical marijuana laws on adolescent marijuana use. The authors concluded, “Our results are not consistent with the hypothesis that the legalization of medical marijuana caused an increase in the use of marijuana and other substances among high school students. In fact, estimates from our preferred specification are small, consistently negative, and are never statistically distinguishable from zero. Using the 95 percent confidence interval around these estimates suggests that the impact of legalizing medical marijuana on the probability of marijuana use in the past 30 days is no larger than 0.8 percentage points, and the impact of legalization on the probability of frequent marijuana use in the past 30 days is no larger than 0.7 percentage points.
In addition to the impact on youth use, the decriminalization of marijuana has not been found to have an impact on adult use. A study conducted by the Institute of Medicine concluded, “In sum, there is little evidence that decriminalization of marijuana use necessarily leads to a substantial increase in marijuana use.
Fact #9: Marijuana does not cause long-term cognitive impairment in adult users.
The short-term effects of marijuana include immediate, temporary changes in thoughts, perceptions and information processing. The cognitive process most clearly affected by marijuana is short-term memory. In laboratory studies, subjects under the influence of marijuana have no trouble remembering things they learned previously. However, they temporarily display diminished capacity to learn and recall new information. This diminishment only lasts for the duration of the intoxication. There is no convincing evidence that heavy long-term marijuana use permanently impairs memory or other cognitive functions. A recent, large-scale, longitudinal study of adult marijuana users corroborates earlier findings that marijuana produces no long-term negative effects on cognition, stating, "The adverse impacts of cannabis use on cognitive functions either appear to be related to pre-existing factors or are reversible . . . even after potentially extended periods of use." However, it is not recommended that adolescents use marijuana unless under the care of a physician, as some research suggests potentially negative cognitive effects for adolescents who use marijuana.
Fact #10: There is no compelling evidence that marijuana contributes substantially to traffic accidents and fatalities.
At some doses, marijuana affects perception and psychomotor performance – changes that could impair driving ability. However, in actual driving studies, marijuana produces little or no car-handling impairment – consistently less than produced by moderate doses of alcohol and many legal medications. In contrast to alcohol, which tends to increase risky driving practices, marijuana tends to make subjects more cautious. Surveys of fatally injured drivers show that when THC is detected in the blood, alcohol is almost always detected as well. For some individuals, marijuana may play a role in bad driving, yet the overall rate of highway accidents appears not to be significantly affected by marijuana's widespread use in society. Frequent marijuana consumers, moreover, appear to develop a tolerance to marijuana’s impairing effects. Furthermore, as a result of marijuana’s criminalization, harm reduction options that exist for alcohol consumption – such as designated driver education, alternate transportation from drinking establishments, and easily accessible information about how alcohol dosage effects one’s physical and mental functioning – are not available for marijuana use. If marijuana were legally controlled and regulated, public education about using marijuana safely could be provided. Finally, available evidence indicates that medical marijuana laws do not increase – and in fact may decrease – traffic fatalities.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA IN EUROPE
Medical marijuana is currently legal or decriminalized in the Czech Republic, Finland, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. Possession of (small amounts of) marijuana is generally tolerated or not penalized in Belgium, Croatia, Estonia, Italy, and Switzerland. While Germany has theoretically decriminalized medical marijuana, the rules are applied so stringently that it is effectively impossible to get approved as a medical marijuana patient.
Medical marijuana is currently legal or decriminalized in the Czech Republic, Finland, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. Possession of (small amounts of) marijuana is generally tolerated or not penalized in Belgium, Croatia, Estonia, Italy, and Switzerland. While Germany has theoretically decriminalized medical marijuana, the rules are applied so stringently that it is effectively impossible to get approved as a medical marijuana patient.
Spain
Although cannabis is officially illegal, possession of smaller amounts is decriminalized, and it is in fact legal to smoke in the privacy of your home, and grow marijuana plants on private property (medical and personal use only, not for distribution). High quality Moroccan hash and good weed are readily available. The easiest place to obtain cannabis in Spain is probably in Barcelona. There more than 500 associations in Barcelona. DAMA association is one of the finest association and it is right next to the famous turizum place Plaza Espanya. Malaga and its surrounding beaches, and the island of Ibiza, also offer a rich cannabis culture.
Albania
Although Albania is one of Europe's biggest producers of cannabis, the official status of (medical) marijuana in Albania is illegal. Because Albania is situated in the southeastern part of Europe, it sits close to some very good sources of cannabis, like Moroccan weed. This also makes Albanian marijuana comparatively cheap.
Austria
Technically, the use of medical marijuana is legal in Austria. However, possession, sale and growing of cannabis are prohibited by law, so public marijuana use is inadvisable. The best way to buy cannabis in Austria is simply to go to a city park and look around for a couple of likely lads, or wait to be approached by a dealer.
Belgium
Cannabis use is generally tolerated, as long as you are discreet, moderate and of age. It is advisable to use cannabis only within the safety of your own home. Owning a single female plant or up to 3 grams of dry product has been decriminalized for adult growers.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Cannabis is illegal in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The country lies at the centre of several cannabis trade routes, but smoking or selling weed in public can get you arrested and fined or jailed. The best cities for buying (medical) marijuana are Mostar, Sarajevo and Banja Luka - ask for trava or vutra (weed) orshit (hash).
Bulgaria
Cannabis is illegal in Bulgaria. Even small amounts are not usually tolerated by the often corrupt enforcement authorities. Tread carefully and do not import any medical marijuana into the country.
Croatia
Possession of small amounts of cannabis is generally tolerated, and counts as a misdemeanour punishable by a fine.
Cyprus
Possession, cultivation, selling, buying and using cannabis are illegal in Cyprus, and this is heavily enforced. Expect the local police to show zero tolerance even for small amounts or indoor use. Do not take any risks and tread with care.
Czech Republic
Medical use of (prescription) cannabis has been legal since April 2013. Medical marijuana use is generally tolerated and possession of up to fifteen grams for personal use or cultivation of up to five plants is classed as a misdemeanour only. Generally speaking, the Czech Republic is pretty welcoming to medical marijuana users and as long as you are discreet and well-behaved, you are not likely to encounter problems.
Denmark
Cannabis, although technically illegal, is generally tolerated in Denmark. There is a pretty strong lobby for the legalization of (medical) marijuana. Take the usual precautions of smoking in safe locations and buying from safe dealers, and you shouldn't run into any problems. "Pusher Street" in Christiania, Copenhagen is a well-known area to buy weed.
Estonia
Possession and use of small amounts of cannabis is generally tolerated. Amounts of up to 10 grams are considered to be for personal use, and punishable by a fine only. Still, it is best to keep a low profile and avoid smoking in public. Weed is relatively expensive and not very easy to come by. The best cities to look are Talinn and Tartu.
Finland
There is a medical marijuana programme in Finland, but very few people are approved and recreational use is illegal. Home grown weed is something of a national hobby - making friends with likely-looking locals is probably your best bet. As in most countries, be discreet, avoid public smoking, and hang out for a while before trying to buy. Helsinki (Synebrichoff Park), Pori and Rovaniemi are probably the best cities to buy weed.
France
France has a fairly enthusiastic homegrowing culture, but cannabis possession, sale and cultivation is still prohibited by law. How strictly this is enforced, depends on which specific law enforcement officer you meet, but it's best to err on the side of caution. Weed is pretty hard to get in France, with many locals opting to take a trip to the Netherlands instead. Hash, on the other hand, is readily available. The locals call it "shit", and sometimes it is, but you can also buy excellent quality hashish if you know where to look.
As of July 2013, certain forms of medical marijuana were made legal in France. It remains to be seen which medications become available, and how easy it will be to get a prescription.
Germany
Germany does have a medical marijuana programme, but in practice, it is very hard to be approved as a patient. Although possession of cannabis is illegal, consumption is not, and on average, law enforcement is not stringent. Berlin is an especially great place to be if you're into cannabis. Local law enforcement is relaxed and weed is readily available. Possession of under 15 grams is generally not a prosecutable offense. It is still advisable to exercise the normal level of caution and not to smoke in public.
Greece
Although there have been several recent attempts to legalize marijuana in Greece, so far, none has succeeded. It is strongly advisable to only use cannabis indoors in Greece. Areas near the beaches are likely places for buying pot or hash.
Hungary
Cannabis is illegal, although a distinction is made between possession for personal use and possession with intent to sell. A small amount of cannabis is probably safe to have indoors, but don't smoke in public.
Iceland
Marijuana is illegal and fines for possession are steep (about $500 for having a single gram). Still, cannabis is easily obtained in Reykjavik in bars and the like.
Ireland
Cannabis was recently separated from other scheduled drugs and is currently regulated under a "three strikes and you're out" law. In most cities, marijuana is easily obtained. Keep your smoking activities indoors and away from the Gardaí and you'll be fine.
Italy
In quite a few cities, like Bologna, Firenze, Messina and Milano, cannabis is tolerated and many cops won’t mind if you smoke in public, as long as the amount you have on you is small. Still, caution is always advisable, and cannabis is officially illegal in Italy. There is some homegrowing activity, but on the whole, marijuana in bud form is rare and good quality weed can be difficult to find. Hash is readily available though, and some of it is high Moroccan quality.
Latvia
Cannabis is illegal and generally of poor quality when available. Possession of less than a gram is an administrative offence, and if caught you can almost always bribe your way out. The best place to obtain marijuana is old Riga.
Lithuania
Cannabis is illegal in Lithuania, and this is enforced quite heavily. What marijuana is available is expensive and low quality. Best avoided.
Luxembourg
Cannabis is illegal, but possession of smaller amounts is punishable by a fine only. Tourists should have no problems obtaining marijuana at the stations or in the local nightlife.
Macedonia
Tread with caution: cannabis is ilegal and this is heavily enforced. Obtaining weed is not hard, but the quality is not very good. It is mostly sold at low prices by teenagers.
Malta
Cannabis is illegal and hard to obtain in Malta. You best bet would probably to island-hop to Sicily.
Netherlands
As you probably know, cannabis use is tolerated in the Netherlands. Top quality marijuana (and sometimes edible marijuana products) is readily available from the hundreds of so-called coffeeshops. It's advisable not to carry around more than 5 grams of weed at a time (the legal limit). Smoking in public is not a problem in Holland. Take your time getting to know the area you're in and compare the offerings and prices of several coffeeshops.
Norway
Cannabis is illegal in Norway, though smaller amounts for personal use are only punishable by a fine for first-time offenders. Be discreet and behave; police officers will not bother casual users.
Poland
Poland introduced legislation in 2011 to decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis. However, officially marijuana is still illegal.
Portugal
Portugal was the first country in the world to decriminalize all drugs. Although possession of small amounts is not a criminal offense, any suggestion of trafficking or selling cannabis can get you in serious trouble.
Romania
Cannabis is illegal in Romania and hard to obtain too. Do not ask around indiscriminately, as you may run into undercover police officers. Instead, get to know locals before you attempt to buy marijuana, and do not smoke in public.
Russia
Possession of under 6 grams is not a criminal offense, and cannabis is easy to buy in large cities like Moscow and St Petersburg. Caution is advised in Russia - do not smoke in public and buy discreetly. Be prepared to offer a substantial bribe (US Dollars preferred) to police officers if you get caught.
Serbia
Although cannabis is illegal in Serbia, a cannabis parade takes place in their capital Belgrade each year and law enforcement is generally tolerant.
Slovakia
Cannabis is illegal in Slovakia, and caution is advised. It is not very hard to purchase cannabis in Slovakia.
Slovenia
Smoking cannabis is generally tolerated, but of course still illegal. Marijuana can be bought inLjubljana, in Metelkova City, among other places.
SwedenSweden officially takes a zero tolerance stance on cannabis. Though "street legal" in certain areas, it is still illegal to use or possess any quantity of cannabis. Look for likely-looking people in busier areas to find a dealer.
Switzerland
Although cannabis is officially illegal, its casual use is tolerated in many areas of Switzerland. The cantons Vaud, Neuchatel, Geneva and Fribourg have even legalized cultivation of up to 4 cannabis plants per person. Attempts to pass decriminalization laws are underway.
Turkey
Cannabis is illegal and hard to obtain without being ripped off. Exercise extreme caution. If you can get to know some local people and share a waterpipe, you can experience some excellent marijuana in Turkey.
United Kingdom
(England, Scotland, Wales)
Cannabis is illegal officially, but in most areas of England, Scotland and Wales, casual and discreet use will not get you in trouble. Weed is readily available if you keep an eye out in pubs, clubs or parks.
Although cannabis is officially illegal, possession of smaller amounts is decriminalized, and it is in fact legal to smoke in the privacy of your home, and grow marijuana plants on private property (medical and personal use only, not for distribution). High quality Moroccan hash and good weed are readily available. The easiest place to obtain cannabis in Spain is probably in Barcelona. There more than 500 associations in Barcelona. DAMA association is one of the finest association and it is right next to the famous turizum place Plaza Espanya. Malaga and its surrounding beaches, and the island of Ibiza, also offer a rich cannabis culture.
Albania
Although Albania is one of Europe's biggest producers of cannabis, the official status of (medical) marijuana in Albania is illegal. Because Albania is situated in the southeastern part of Europe, it sits close to some very good sources of cannabis, like Moroccan weed. This also makes Albanian marijuana comparatively cheap.
Austria
Technically, the use of medical marijuana is legal in Austria. However, possession, sale and growing of cannabis are prohibited by law, so public marijuana use is inadvisable. The best way to buy cannabis in Austria is simply to go to a city park and look around for a couple of likely lads, or wait to be approached by a dealer.
Belgium
Cannabis use is generally tolerated, as long as you are discreet, moderate and of age. It is advisable to use cannabis only within the safety of your own home. Owning a single female plant or up to 3 grams of dry product has been decriminalized for adult growers.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Cannabis is illegal in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The country lies at the centre of several cannabis trade routes, but smoking or selling weed in public can get you arrested and fined or jailed. The best cities for buying (medical) marijuana are Mostar, Sarajevo and Banja Luka - ask for trava or vutra (weed) orshit (hash).
Bulgaria
Cannabis is illegal in Bulgaria. Even small amounts are not usually tolerated by the often corrupt enforcement authorities. Tread carefully and do not import any medical marijuana into the country.
Croatia
Possession of small amounts of cannabis is generally tolerated, and counts as a misdemeanour punishable by a fine.
Cyprus
Possession, cultivation, selling, buying and using cannabis are illegal in Cyprus, and this is heavily enforced. Expect the local police to show zero tolerance even for small amounts or indoor use. Do not take any risks and tread with care.
Czech Republic
Medical use of (prescription) cannabis has been legal since April 2013. Medical marijuana use is generally tolerated and possession of up to fifteen grams for personal use or cultivation of up to five plants is classed as a misdemeanour only. Generally speaking, the Czech Republic is pretty welcoming to medical marijuana users and as long as you are discreet and well-behaved, you are not likely to encounter problems.
Denmark
Cannabis, although technically illegal, is generally tolerated in Denmark. There is a pretty strong lobby for the legalization of (medical) marijuana. Take the usual precautions of smoking in safe locations and buying from safe dealers, and you shouldn't run into any problems. "Pusher Street" in Christiania, Copenhagen is a well-known area to buy weed.
Estonia
Possession and use of small amounts of cannabis is generally tolerated. Amounts of up to 10 grams are considered to be for personal use, and punishable by a fine only. Still, it is best to keep a low profile and avoid smoking in public. Weed is relatively expensive and not very easy to come by. The best cities to look are Talinn and Tartu.
Finland
There is a medical marijuana programme in Finland, but very few people are approved and recreational use is illegal. Home grown weed is something of a national hobby - making friends with likely-looking locals is probably your best bet. As in most countries, be discreet, avoid public smoking, and hang out for a while before trying to buy. Helsinki (Synebrichoff Park), Pori and Rovaniemi are probably the best cities to buy weed.
France
France has a fairly enthusiastic homegrowing culture, but cannabis possession, sale and cultivation is still prohibited by law. How strictly this is enforced, depends on which specific law enforcement officer you meet, but it's best to err on the side of caution. Weed is pretty hard to get in France, with many locals opting to take a trip to the Netherlands instead. Hash, on the other hand, is readily available. The locals call it "shit", and sometimes it is, but you can also buy excellent quality hashish if you know where to look.
As of July 2013, certain forms of medical marijuana were made legal in France. It remains to be seen which medications become available, and how easy it will be to get a prescription.
Germany
Germany does have a medical marijuana programme, but in practice, it is very hard to be approved as a patient. Although possession of cannabis is illegal, consumption is not, and on average, law enforcement is not stringent. Berlin is an especially great place to be if you're into cannabis. Local law enforcement is relaxed and weed is readily available. Possession of under 15 grams is generally not a prosecutable offense. It is still advisable to exercise the normal level of caution and not to smoke in public.
Greece
Although there have been several recent attempts to legalize marijuana in Greece, so far, none has succeeded. It is strongly advisable to only use cannabis indoors in Greece. Areas near the beaches are likely places for buying pot or hash.
Hungary
Cannabis is illegal, although a distinction is made between possession for personal use and possession with intent to sell. A small amount of cannabis is probably safe to have indoors, but don't smoke in public.
Iceland
Marijuana is illegal and fines for possession are steep (about $500 for having a single gram). Still, cannabis is easily obtained in Reykjavik in bars and the like.
Ireland
Cannabis was recently separated from other scheduled drugs and is currently regulated under a "three strikes and you're out" law. In most cities, marijuana is easily obtained. Keep your smoking activities indoors and away from the Gardaí and you'll be fine.
Italy
In quite a few cities, like Bologna, Firenze, Messina and Milano, cannabis is tolerated and many cops won’t mind if you smoke in public, as long as the amount you have on you is small. Still, caution is always advisable, and cannabis is officially illegal in Italy. There is some homegrowing activity, but on the whole, marijuana in bud form is rare and good quality weed can be difficult to find. Hash is readily available though, and some of it is high Moroccan quality.
Latvia
Cannabis is illegal and generally of poor quality when available. Possession of less than a gram is an administrative offence, and if caught you can almost always bribe your way out. The best place to obtain marijuana is old Riga.
Lithuania
Cannabis is illegal in Lithuania, and this is enforced quite heavily. What marijuana is available is expensive and low quality. Best avoided.
Luxembourg
Cannabis is illegal, but possession of smaller amounts is punishable by a fine only. Tourists should have no problems obtaining marijuana at the stations or in the local nightlife.
Macedonia
Tread with caution: cannabis is ilegal and this is heavily enforced. Obtaining weed is not hard, but the quality is not very good. It is mostly sold at low prices by teenagers.
Malta
Cannabis is illegal and hard to obtain in Malta. You best bet would probably to island-hop to Sicily.
Netherlands
As you probably know, cannabis use is tolerated in the Netherlands. Top quality marijuana (and sometimes edible marijuana products) is readily available from the hundreds of so-called coffeeshops. It's advisable not to carry around more than 5 grams of weed at a time (the legal limit). Smoking in public is not a problem in Holland. Take your time getting to know the area you're in and compare the offerings and prices of several coffeeshops.
Norway
Cannabis is illegal in Norway, though smaller amounts for personal use are only punishable by a fine for first-time offenders. Be discreet and behave; police officers will not bother casual users.
Poland
Poland introduced legislation in 2011 to decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis. However, officially marijuana is still illegal.
Portugal
Portugal was the first country in the world to decriminalize all drugs. Although possession of small amounts is not a criminal offense, any suggestion of trafficking or selling cannabis can get you in serious trouble.
Romania
Cannabis is illegal in Romania and hard to obtain too. Do not ask around indiscriminately, as you may run into undercover police officers. Instead, get to know locals before you attempt to buy marijuana, and do not smoke in public.
Russia
Possession of under 6 grams is not a criminal offense, and cannabis is easy to buy in large cities like Moscow and St Petersburg. Caution is advised in Russia - do not smoke in public and buy discreetly. Be prepared to offer a substantial bribe (US Dollars preferred) to police officers if you get caught.
Serbia
Although cannabis is illegal in Serbia, a cannabis parade takes place in their capital Belgrade each year and law enforcement is generally tolerant.
Slovakia
Cannabis is illegal in Slovakia, and caution is advised. It is not very hard to purchase cannabis in Slovakia.
Slovenia
Smoking cannabis is generally tolerated, but of course still illegal. Marijuana can be bought inLjubljana, in Metelkova City, among other places.
SwedenSweden officially takes a zero tolerance stance on cannabis. Though "street legal" in certain areas, it is still illegal to use or possess any quantity of cannabis. Look for likely-looking people in busier areas to find a dealer.
Switzerland
Although cannabis is officially illegal, its casual use is tolerated in many areas of Switzerland. The cantons Vaud, Neuchatel, Geneva and Fribourg have even legalized cultivation of up to 4 cannabis plants per person. Attempts to pass decriminalization laws are underway.
Turkey
Cannabis is illegal and hard to obtain without being ripped off. Exercise extreme caution. If you can get to know some local people and share a waterpipe, you can experience some excellent marijuana in Turkey.
United Kingdom
(England, Scotland, Wales)
Cannabis is illegal officially, but in most areas of England, Scotland and Wales, casual and discreet use will not get you in trouble. Weed is readily available if you keep an eye out in pubs, clubs or parks.
Where to buy weed in Barcelona
There are a lot of places and different ways to buy weed in Barcelona. But we suggest you do a proper sign up (buy your prescription) from any legit association and you may as well enjoy the facilities which provided by the association.