What is Marijuana? Uses, Health Impacts, and Addiction Potential

Marijuana is a widely recognized psychoactive substance primarily used for recreational and medicinal purposes. Its two main compounds, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) play important roles in its effects, with THC being responsible for the intoxicating experience and CBD known for its therapeutic benefits. In 2022, marijuana use among U.S. adults reached its peak in Vermont, with approximately 34.37% of adults stating they had used marijuana within the past year. In recent years, several states, such as Colorado and California, have legalized recreational marijuana sales. Overall, around 132 million individuals in the United States reported having tried marijuana at least once in their lifetime, as noted in research published in Statista in 2024 titled “Percentage of U.S. adults that have used cannabis within the past year in 2022, by state.”

Marijuana is used for both medicinal and recreational purposes. Medicinally, it is prescribed for various conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and nausea associated with chemotherapy. Recreationally, individuals use it for its relaxing effects, mood enhancement, and social enjoyment. The versatility of its applications has contributed to its growing acceptance and use in many states across the U.S.

Notable health impacts associated with marijuana use include both positive and negative outcomes. While some users report relief from pain and anxiety, excessive use leads to adverse effects such as impaired cognitive function, respiratory issues (when smoked), and potential mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. Additionally, use during adolescence interferes with brain development, leading to long-term cognitive deficits.

The potential for marijuana addiction is a significant concern. Although it is perceived as less addictive than other substances, research published by the NIDA in 2013 titled “Marijuana Facts for Teens” indicates that roughly 9% of marijuana users, or about 1 in 11, will develop an addiction to the substance. This likelihood increases to 17%, or approximately 1 in 6, for those who begin using in their teenage years and rises significantly to between 25% and 50% among those who use marijuana daily. Symptoms of addiction manifest as cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences, highlighting the importance of understanding the risks associated with marijuana use, particularly as its accessibility increases.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana, commonly referred to as cannabis, is a flowering plant that has been utilized for various purposes throughout history, including medicinal, recreational, and industrial applications. The key psychoactive compound found in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the brain, leading to alterations in mood, perception, and cognition. These effects range from euphoria and relaxation to heightened sensory awareness.

Globally, marijuana is one of the most widely used illicit substances, with a 2024 estimate by Sage Journals titled “Chronic Cannabis Use in Everyday Life: Emotional, Motivational, and Self-Regulatory Effects of Frequently Getting High” indicating that approximately 200 million people consume it annually. In the United States, the prevalence of marijuana use has increased significantly in recent years.

According to national surveys conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a branch of the National Institutes of Health, the percentage of U.S. adults using marijuana in the past year increased from 4.1% to 9.5%. Similarly, the prevalence of marijuana use disorder rose from 1.5% to 2.9%, per a study published by the NIH in 2015 titled “Prevalence of Marijuana Use Among U.S. Adults Doubles Over Past Decade.”  The growing acceptance of marijuana, fueled by legalization efforts in various states for both medical and recreational purposes, reflects a shifting societal attitude towards cannabis. Additionally, research shows that the therapeutic potential of marijuana is being explored for conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy, further contributing to its global prominence.

How Does Marijuana Differ from Hemp, CBD, and Hash?

Marijuana differs significantly from hemp, CBD, and hash in terms of chemical composition and usage. Understanding these distinctions is essential for grasping the diverse applications and effects of these cannabis-derived products. 

Below are the key differences among them:

• Marijuana: Marijuana contains more than 0.3% THC, which is the compound responsible for its psychoactive effects. It is primarily used for recreational and medicinal purposes, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and appetite stimulation. The average THC concentration in marijuana samples has increased significantly, rising from approximately 4% in 1995 to about 12% in 2014. Additionally, the ratio of THC to CBD has changed dramatically, shifting from 14:1 in 1995 to nearly 80:1 by 2014, indicating a trend toward higher potency products, particularly sinsemilla, which has become more prevalent in the market, according to a study by Mahmoud A. et al published in the Biological Psychiatry in 2017 titled “Changes in Cannabis Potency over the Last Two Decades (1995-2014) – Analysis of Current Data in the United States.”
• Hemp: This is defined as cannabis with 0.3% or less THC, making it non-psychoactive. It is primarily utilized for industrial applications, such as textiles, paper, and building materials, and is also used to produce CBD products. The primary distinction between hemp and other cannabis varieties lies in their THC content. According to the 2018 Farm Bill published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, cannabis sativa plants containing less than 0.3% THC are classified as hemp.
• CBD (Cannabidiol): CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in both marijuana and hemp, but it is derived from hemp to ensure low THC content. It is gaining popularity for its potential health benefits, including anxiety relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and seizure reduction, without the intoxicating effects associated with THC.
• Hash: This is a concentrated form of cannabis made from the resin of the plant, which contains higher levels of THC than marijuana flowers. It is consumed for its potent psychoactive effects and can be smoked, vaporized, or used in edibles.

What Are the Primary Uses of Marijuana?

The primary uses of marijuana are recreational, medicinal, and spiritual purposes. As attitudes toward cannabis continue to evolve, its applications have expanded significantly, leading to greater acceptance and usage in various contexts.

The primary uses of marijuana are explained below:

• Recreational Use: Approximately 48% of U.S. adults report having tried marijuana at least once for recreational purposes, as indicated in research by Catherine A. et al. published in JACEP Open in 2020 titled “The perils of recreational marijuana use: relationships with mental health among emergency department patients.” Many individuals use marijuana for its psychoactive effects, which enhance mood, relaxation, and social interaction. Users seek the euphoric “high” that cannabis provides, making it a popular choice for social gatherings and leisure activities.
• Medicinal Use: Medical marijuana is utilized to manage a variety of health conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety. Patients find relief through specific compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, which alleviate symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Medical professionals prescribe it as part of a therapeutic regimen for individuals with serious illnesses. Of those surveyed in data published in Taylor and Francis Online in 2022 titled “Medical Cannabis Patients Report Improvements in Health Functioning and Reductions in Opiate Use,” 60.98% were using pain medications before starting medical cannabis, and a notable 93.36% of these individuals reported a change in their pain medication regimen after initiating cannabis use. Furthermore, 79% of participants experienced either a reduction or complete cessation of their pain medication, while 11.47% reported improved functioning, suggesting that medical cannabis is a valuable alternative or complement to traditional pain treatments.
• Spiritual Use: Some cultures and traditions use marijuana in spiritual practices, believing it facilitates a deeper connection to the divine or enhances meditation experiences. For practitioners, cannabis serves as a tool for introspection and heightened awareness, helping to create a more profound sense of peace and connection during spiritual rituals.

Is Marijuana a Drug?

Yes, marijuana is classified as a drug due to its psychoactive effects and its ability to alter mental states and perceptions. It contains compounds known as cannabinoids, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, leading to various effects such as euphoria, relaxation, and altered sensory experiences. Furthermore, cannabis use results in intoxication, withdrawal, and various biopsychosocial issues, including cannabis use disorder, which is characterized by clinically significant impairment or distress.

As a result, marijuana falls under the category of controlled substances, regulated by laws that govern its use, distribution, and possession. This classification underscores its potential for abuse, as evidenced by its prevalence among users—nearly 4% of the global population was reported to use cannabis in 2015—and the need for caution in its consumption, as noted in a 2020 research published by StatPearls titled “Cannabis Use Disorder.”

What Are the Benefits of Medical Marijuana?

The benefits of medical marijuana include chronic pain relief, anti-anxiety effects, epilepsy management, nausea and vomiting relief from chemotherapy. These benefits of medical marijuana highlight its therapeutic potential and underline the importance of continued research to fully understand its applications in modern medicine.

The benefits of medical marijuana are given below:

• Chronic Pain Relief: Medical marijuana is prescribed for chronic pain management. Studies have shown that cannabinoids, particularly THC, effectively reduce pain signals in the brain, providing relief for conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. A study by Habib and Avisar published in Wiley Library in 2018 titled “The Consumption of Cannabis by Fibromyalgia Patients in Israel” surveyed 383 Israeli fibromyalgia patients, revealing that 84% reported using cannabis, with 44% of these individuals licensed to do so. Among the users, an impressive 94% experienced pain relief
• Anti-Anxiety Effects: Some cannabinoids help alleviate symptoms of anxiety. By interacting with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, marijuana promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety levels in patients. 58% of patients experience a reduction in anxiety after using medical marijuana, particularly in forms high in CBD, as stated in a 2018 study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders titled “A naturalistic examination of the perceived effects of cannabis on negative affect.”
• Epilepsy Management: Medical marijuana has been found beneficial in treating epilepsy, particularly in children with severe forms such as Dravet syndrome. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a cannabidiol (CBD) oil, specifically for this purpose, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency. In pivotal trials, Epidiolex demonstrated a 42.5% reduction in convulsive seizure frequency among patients, with a notable 22.8 median reduction in monthly convulsive seizures compared to placebo, as seen in an analysis by Renad A. et al. published in The Journal of Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics in 2020 titled “Emerging Use of Epidiolex (Cannabidiol) in Epilepsy.”
• Nausea and Vomiting Relief from Chemotherapy: Medical marijuana is commonly used to combat nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. THC is known to stimulate appetite and reduce the discomfort of nausea, making it a valuable treatment for cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Other potential benefits of medical marijuana include its use in managing symptoms of multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and PTSD, with ongoing research exploring its efficacy for various medical conditions.

Are There Side Effects of Medical Marijuana Use? 

Yes, there are side effects of medical marijuana use, such as dizziness, dry mouth, and potential addiction risks. In the study by Lihi Bar-Lev S. et al. published in Frontiers in Medicine in 2022 titled “Adherence, Safety, and Effectiveness of Medical Cannabis and Epidemiological Characteristics of the Patient Population: A Prospective Study” of prescribed medical cannabis patients, common side effects were reported by 34.2% of participants, with specific effects including dizziness (8.2%), dry mouth (6.7%), increased appetite (4.7%), sleepiness (4.4%), and psychoactive effects (4.3%). Additionally, there is a noted dependence risk associated with long-term use. Patients must discuss these potential side effects with their doctors to ensure safe and effective use of medical marijuana.

The side effects of medical marijuana use are given below:

• Dizziness: Users experience lightheadedness or a spinning sensation, especially when standing up quickly. This occurs due to marijuana’s effects on blood pressure and its impact on the central nervous system.
• Dry mouth: Known as “cottonmouth,” this side effect results from cannabinoids interacting with salivary glands, leading to reduced saliva production. This condition is uncomfortable and requires users to drink more fluids to alleviate the sensation.
• Cognitive impairment: Medical marijuana affects short-term memory, attention span, and overall cognitive function. Users find it harder to focus or recall information, impacting daily activities and decision-making.
• Fatigue: Some individuals report feeling unusually tired or lethargic after using medical marijuana. This fatigue affects motivation and energy levels, making it difficult to engage in regular activities.
• Changes in appetite: Marijuana stimulates appetite, referred to as “the munchies,” leading users to crave food. Conversely, some users experience a decreased appetite, which is particularly concerning for those using marijuana to manage certain medical conditions.
• Mood alterations: Medical marijuana influences a user’s mood, leading to feelings of anxiety or paranoia. Some experience relaxation and euphoria, while others find that their emotions fluctuate or intensify unexpectedly.
• Dependence risk: Although the overall risk of dependence is lower than with substances like alcohol, there is still a possibility of developing a cannabis use disorder. This risk heightens for individuals who use marijuana frequently or begin using at a young age, with studies by Nora D., et al published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) in 2016 titled “Adverse Health Effects of Marijuana Use”, suggesting that about 9% of users develop dependence.

How Does Marijuana Affect the Body and Mind in the Short-Term and Long-Term?

Marijuana affects the body and mind in both the short term and long term, with distinct differences in the nature and severity of these effects. In the short term, marijuana use leads to immediate impacts on both the body and mind. Users experience feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and heightened sensory perception. However, these positive effects are accompanied by negative reactions such as paranoia, anxiety, and impaired coordination. Up to 30% of recreational users report intense anxiety or panic attacks after use, according to research published in Wikipedia in 2025 titled “Effects of cannabis.” 

In contrast, long-term marijuana use poses several risks that affect both physical health and cognitive function over time. Chronic use has been linked to memory issues, with research suggesting that regular use leads to a decline in mental abilities. The study by Harold S. et al., published by Child Mind in 2024, titled “Does Teenage Marijuana Use Affect IQ?” Adolescent marijuana users who became clinically dependent by age 18 lost, on average, 8 IQ points by the time they were retested at 38 years old. This decline was not observed in those who started using marijuana after adolescence. The study involved 1,000 participants from New Zealand, highlighting the sensitivity of the developing adolescent brain to substance use and the potential long-term cognitive impacts associated with early, heavy marijuana consumption. 

Can Long-Term Marijuana Use Lead to Permanent Brain Changes?

Yes, long-term marijuana use leads to permanent brain changes, particularly affecting brain structure and function. Research by L. Koenders et al. published in 2017 titled “Longitudinal study of hippocampal volumes in heavy cannabis users” investigates the impact of heavy cannabis use on hippocampal volume in young adults over 39 months, comparing 20 heavy cannabis users (mean age 21 years) with 23 healthy controls.

The findings of the research indicate that while hippocampal volumes increased in both groups over time, there were no significant differences between cannabis users and controls, nor any effects related to cannabis use characteristics such as age of onset or cumulative dosage. Specifically, the analysis revealed a significant main effect of time on hippocampal volume (F(1,39) = 26.22, p < 0.001) but no significant group differences (F(1,39) = 0.17, p = 0.69), suggesting that heavy cannabis use did not adversely affect hippocampal neuroanatomy during early adulthood. 

These structural changes contribute to memory-related issues and cognitive decline. However, it’s important to note that neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections—means that some changes are reversible after cessation of use. While some users regain cognitive function and hippocampal integrity over time, others could experience lasting impacts on their brain health, underscoring the complex relationship between long-term marijuana use and cognitive outcomes.

How Does Long-Term Marijuana Use Affect Mental Health?

Long-term marijuana use affects mental health by increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Marijuana use is associated with a 20% increased risk of developing anxiety disorders, and heavy cannabis users face a 2.5 times higher likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts compared to non-users, as indicated in research published by the NIH in 2017 titled “The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research.”

Additionally, A study by Lisa D. et al. published in the Addictive Behavior Journal in 2018 titled “Depression and Marijuana Use Disorder Symptoms among Current Marijuana Users” found that among 28,557 current marijuana users, those with major depression were 3.2 times more likely to experience symptoms of marijuana use disorder compared to those without depression. 

Are There Risks of Combining Marijuana With Other Substances?

Yes, there are risks of combining marijuana with other substances like alcohol, prescription drugs, or stimulants. When marijuana is mixed with alcohol, the effects are amplified, leading to increased impairment, greater levels of intoxication, and a higher likelihood of accidents or injuries due to impaired judgment and motor skills. Additionally, combining marijuana with prescription drugs, particularly those that also depress the central nervous system, results in enhanced sedation and respiratory depression, posing serious health risks.

Stimulants, when used alongside marijuana, lead to unpredictable effects, as marijuana masks the stimulating effects, leading users to consume higher doses of stimulants than intended, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues. Overall, these substance interactions create compounded effects that are harmful and unpredictable.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

Yes, marijuana is addictive. While it is perceived as less addictive than other substances, a study by the NIDA in 2013 titled “Marijuana Facts for Teens” indicates that around 9% of marijuana users, or roughly 1 in 11, develop an addiction. This likelihood rises to 17% for those who begin using in their teenage years, translating to about 1 in 6, and escalates to between 25% to 50% among individuals who use marijuana daily. 

Marijuana use disorder is characterized by a continued pattern of use despite negative consequences, and it includes symptoms of dependence such as cravings, withdrawal, and difficulty controlling use. In the U.S., adults with CUD consume cannabis approximately 6.2 days per week, with about 17% of weekly and 19% of daily users meeting the criteria for dependence. Additionally, nearly 10% of non-dependent weekly users transition to dependence within a year, emphasizing the progressive nature of cannabis use, as stated in a study by Jason P. et al. published in the Nature Reviews Disease Primers in 2021 titled “Cannabis use and cannabis use Disorder.”

How Does Marijuana Addiction Compare to Alcohol Addiction?

Marijuana addiction compares to alcohol addiction in several significant ways, despite both substances having the potential to lead to dependence. While marijuana is often perceived as less harmful, it can still result in substantial psychological dependence, especially among younger users. Approximately 9% of marijuana users develop a dependence, a figure that rises to 17% for those who start using in their teens. In contrast, alcohol addiction is more prevalent, with about 15% of drinkers developing alcohol use disorder (AUD), according to a study by the NIDA in 2013 titled “Marijuana Facts for Teens”.

The withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol can be severe and even life-threatening, including tremors, seizures, and delirium tremens (DTs). In contrast, marijuana withdrawal symptoms tend to be milder, such as irritability and insomnia. Furthermore, the social acceptance of alcohol often leads to more frequent and heavier use, contributing to its higher addiction rates. 

Overall, both marijuana and alcohol can lead to addiction, but they differ significantly in their physiological effects, patterns of use, and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Why Is Marijuana Considered a Gateway Drug?

Marijuana is considered a gateway drug due to theories suggesting that its use leads to the consumption of more potent substances. Adolescents who use marijuana are significantly more likely to experiment with harder drugs; for instance, teens who use marijuana are three times more likely to try cocaine or heroin compared to their non-using peers. Furthermore, approximately 9.7% of non-dependent weekly cannabis users progress to dependence within a year, per a study by Jason P. et al. published in the Nature Reviews Disease Primers in 2021 titled “Cannabis use and cannabis use Disorder.”

Also, the pharmacological effects of marijuana, such as altering perception and increasing impulsivity, might lower the barriers to trying other drugs, reinforcing the gateway hypothesis.

How Is Marijuana Addiction Treated in New Jersey?

Marijuana addiction is treated in New Jersey through inpatient programs, outpatient programs, medical detox, talk therapy, and a variety of local options that cater to different needs, including both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. These treatment centers offer comprehensive approaches to address marijuana use disorder, focusing on both the psychological and physical aspects of addiction.

Treatment options for Marijuana in New Jersey include:

• Inpatient Programs: These programs provide a highly structured environment that removes individuals from daily distractions and triggers, allowing them to concentrate fully on their recovery journey.
• Outpatient Programs: An outpatient marijuana rehabilitation center differs from an inpatient facility in that individuals reside at home and visit the rehab center according to a set schedule for treatment. Outpatient care varies in intensity, ranging from partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient programs, where treatment occurs several days a week for multiple hours each day, to standard outpatient care, which involves meeting with a counselor or participating in group therapy sessions 1–2 times per week, as seen in the 2019 research published in the National Institute on Drug Abuse titled “Treatment approaches for drug addiction”
• Medical Detox: This option offers supervised detoxification, ensuring that individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms receive safe and professional care during the initial phase of recovery.
• Medications: Certain medications be prescribed to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, supporting individuals as they work towards sobriety.
• Talk Therapy: Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are utilized to help individuals understand and address the underlying issues related to their addiction, equipping them with valuable coping strategies. Nearly two-thirds of participants achieved initial post-treatment abstinence through psychotherapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET); however, only 14% maintained abstinence at the one-year follow-up, per study analysis published in the Pharmacotherapy Journal in 2016 titled “Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder: Current Science and Future Outlook”
• Family Therapy: This approach involves family members in the treatment process, fostering a supportive environment that helps repair relationships and encourages recovery.
• Holistic Therapies: Incorporating practices like yoga and mindfulness, these therapies promote overall well-being and stress reduction, addressing both mental and physical health.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in 2019 reported that approximately 34.6% of young adults in New Jersey aged 18 to 25 acknowledged using marijuana at least once in the year from 2017 to 2019. 

What Is the Legal Status of Marijuana in New Jersey?

The legal status of marijuana in New Jersey is that both medical and recreational use are permitted. Medical marijuana was legalized in 2010 under the Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act, allowing patients with specific qualifying conditions to access cannabis for therapeutic purposes. Recreational marijuana was legalized in November 2020 when voters approved a constitutional amendment, with the law coming into effect in January 2021. This legislation allows adults aged 21 and older to possess and use marijuana, creating a regulated market for its sale and marking a significant change in the state’s cannabis policy.

What Cultural Factors Influence Marijuana Use in New Jersey?

The cultural factors that influence marijuana use in New Jersey include societal acceptance, age demographics, and regional influences. A notable 63% of adults in New Jersey support recreational marijuana use, reflecting a growing normalization of cannabis in everyday life, according to survey results by Rutgers University titled “Cannabis Use in New Jersey – Residents Share Their Opinions.”

From 2013 to 2019, as well as in 2020 and from 2021 to 2022, young adults aged 18–25, particularly those who were male, non-Hispanic multiracial, had some college education, and belonged to lower-income families, showed consistently greater likelihoods of using cannabis, as stated in a review by Delvon T. et al. published in the Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports in 2024 titled “Prevalence of and trends in current cannabis use among US youth and adults, 2013–2022.” Additionally, urban areas tend to exhibit more progressive attitudes toward cannabis, influenced by diverse communities and increased advocacy for legalization. This combination of factors contributes to a shifting cultural landscape where marijuana is increasingly viewed as a legitimate option for both recreation and therapeutic purposes.