4 Myths about Marijuana

When it comes to marijuana, it can be hard to know what to believe. Much research has been done to define the effects and properties of the drug but there are still questions that have yet to be answered. What has been discovered are the common marijuana myths, and before anyone can pass judgment; it is important to know what is and is not true.

Marijuana is Not Addictive

Many people will swear that this drug is not an addictive substance and so it cannot be that dangerous. In fact, the opposite has been found to be true and marijuana is listed under many rehabilitation programs as a specific treatment program designed to help those who struggle to become sober from the drug. Signs of this addiction can include insomnia, cravings, and loss of appetite.

Marijuana is a Highly Addictive Substance

Although not as addictive as other drugs, marijuana addiction is still possible.

According to NIDA, a study showed that nine percent of the people who use marijuana would become addicted to marijuana due to the overstimulation of the endocannabinoid system in the brain. While 9% may seem like quite a bit, but when compared to the use of other drugs such a heroin, cocaine, alcohol, or tobacco, it is the lowest addiction rate.

The withdrawal symptoms are also milder than that of any other type of drug. While the use of this drug is still not encouraged outside of medicinal use, it is not as highly addictive as many would believe.

Marijuana as a Gateway Drug

Many people use marijuana as a gateway drug, but that is not the only reason people use it. According to the NIDA, in 2014 the number of adolescents who had used drugs in their lives had increased by 16.7% in 2013 while other drugs such as heroin and cocaine use fell significantly. One-third of marijuana-using teens obtain the drug through someone else’s prescription.

This evidence shows that while marijuana may be a gateway drug for some people, it is not used for that purpose in the majority of marijuana users.

Medical Uses not set in stone

It is widely believed that the use of marijuana for medical purposes is still up in the air. However, it is proven to help elevate the symptoms of chemotherapy, AIDs, some cancers, and glaucoma. The amount of good this drug has done for people with these debilitating illnesses speaks for themselves and has inspired many states to create highly restrictive medical cannabis laws to allow medical professionals to treat their patients with it.

There are many myths that surround the use of marijuana but it is important to know the truth about the drug before any of these myths are believed. While marijuana can be addictive, they are not as highly addictive as any other drug out there and despite some using it as gateway drugs, which is not always the case.

There have been many studies to prove that marijuana is an excellent medical supplement, and while there are still questions to be answered, it has helped many people with their symptoms and illnesses. If you or a loved one is suffering from an addiction and needs help, call 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) to speak with a caring specialist that can assist you.

Sources

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Is Marijuana Addictive?
2. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2014). In Nationwide Survey, More Students Use Marijuana, Fewer Use Other Drugs.