Author: Peter Grinspoon
Peter Grinspoon
Dr. Peter Grinspoon is a primary care physician, educator, and cannabis specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital; an instructor at Harvard Medical School; and a certified health and wellness coach. He is the author of Seeing Through the Smoke: A Cannabis Specialist Untangles the Truth About Marijuana, as well as the groundbreaking memoir Free Refills: A Doctor Confronts His Addiction. He is a board member of the advocacy group Doctors for Cannabis Regulation. He is also a TedX speaker and commonly lectures on the topics of cannabis, psychedelics, addiction, opioids, and physician health.
As marijuana use becomes increasingly prevalent due to growing acceptance and decriminalization, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and side effects associated with its consumption. This article aims to provide an in-depth, evidence-based overview of the physical, mental, and long-term effects of marijuana use, drawing from authoritative sources and research findings to ensure readers have access to accurate and reliable information. Marijuana: Forms and Prevalence Marijuana, derived from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant, is used in various forms, including smoking (joints, pipes, bongs, or blunts), ingesting (edibles or tea), and extracts (hash…