Abstract
Marijuana (cannabis) remains a controversial drug in the twenty-first century. This paper considers current research on use of Cannabis sativa and its constituents such as the cannabinoids. Topics reviewed include prevalence of cannabis (pot) use, other drugs consumed with pot, the endocannabinoid system, use of medicinal marijuana, medical adverse effects of cannabis, and psychiatric adverse effects of cannabis use. Treatment of cannabis withdrawal and dependence is difficult and remains mainly based on psychological therapy; current research on pharmacologic management of problems related to cannabis consumption is also considered. The potential role of specific cannabinoids for medical benefit will be revealed as the twenty-first century matures. However, potential dangerous adverse effects from smoking marijuana are well known and should be clearly taught to a public that is often confused by a media-driven, though false message and promise of benign pot consumption.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-10-2013
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2013.00042
Repository Citation
Greydanus, Donald E.; Hawver, Elizabeth K.; Greydanus, Megan M.; and Merrick, Joav, "Marijuana: Current Concepts" (2013). Pediatrics Faculty Publications. 162.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/pediatrics_facpub/162
Notes/Citation Information
Published in Frontiers in Public Health, v. 1, article 42, p. 1-17.
© 2013 Greydanus, Hawver, Greydanus and Merrick. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.