MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Marijuana intoxication

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Marijuana intoxication

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Alternative Names	Definition

Alternative Names

Cannabis intoxication; Intoxication - marijuana (cannabis)

Definition Return to top

Marijuana ("pot") is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States. The drug is primarily smoked, sometimes eaten. Its intoxicating effects include relaxation, sleepiness, and mild euphoria (getting high).

Marijuana can cause undesirable side effects, which increase with higher doses. These side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, impaired perception and motor skills, decreased short-term memory, paranoia, mood swings, and hallucinations. The amount and effect of these side effects varies from individual to individual.

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Update Date: 7/18/2007

Updated by: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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