Field guide topic
Marijuana
Marijuana is one of the most commonly used substances among youth, and its legalization in many areas has created confusion about its safety and effects. This topic provides evidence-based information about marijuana's impact on the developing brain, academic performance, and mental health. Educational resources address common misconceptions and emphasize the importance of delaying use, especially during adolescence when the brain is still developing.
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Stories and guides
Drug Abuse: Marijuana
What it is: Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the U.S. It’s what gets produced when someone takes the hemp plant and grounds up the leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds. The active ingredient in marijuana is a chemical called THC, but it also contains over 400 other chemicals! It’s usually brown, green, or grayish in color, and has a very noticeable smell. Marijuana is usually smoked and sometimes eaten.
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