Study Notes on Hallucinogens and Marijuana

Hallucinogens

  • Psychoactive drugs modifying perceptual experiences.
  • Produce non-real visual images.
  • Also known as psychedelics (Greek for "mind-revealing").
  • Examples: MDMA (mild effects), LSD (strong effects).

Marijuana

  • Dried leaves and flowers of Cannabis sativa.
  • Origin: Central Asia, now worldwide cultivation.
  • Dried resin known as hashish.
  • Active ingredient: THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).

Effects of Marijuana

  • Mechanism: Disrupts neuronal membranes, affecting neurotransmitters and hormones.
  • Physical Effects:
    • Increased pulse rate and blood pressure.
    • Reddening of the eyes.
    • Dry mouth.
  • Psychological Effects:
    • Mix of excitatory, depressive, mildly hallucinatory characteristics.
    • Can trigger spontaneous laughter, distorted perceptions of time/place, increased sensory sensitivity, erratic verbal behavior.
    • Impairs attention and memory.
    • Long-term daily use: may alter sperm count, change hormonal cycles.
  • Pregnancy Consideration: Avoid due to negative birth outcomes (e.g., physical development issues).