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Marijuana pp 59–82Cite as

Medical Problems Associated with Marijuana Use

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Part of the book series: Drugs of Abuse ((DOAC,volume 1))

Abstract

Marijuana causes a number of medical problems, including respiratory ailments, impaired immunity, and reproductive disturbances. Often the symptoms are subtle and nonspecific, and the link with marijuana use not immediately apparent; thus, a careful history is important. Although acute respiratory discomfort can be eased with symptomatic treatment, abstinence is the only effective long-term treatment for all of these conditions. The limited evidence from long-term studies suggests that most of the medical effects are reversible with cessation of marijuana use. However, the psychological and developmental effects of marijuana on adolescents—as with other developmental injuries—may not be reversible.

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  1. Fair Oaks Hospital, Summit, New Jersey, USA

    Mark S. Gold M.D.

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Gold, M.S. (1989). Medical Problems Associated with Marijuana Use. In: Marijuana. Drugs of Abuse, vol 1. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-3493-2_3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-3493-2_3

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