Marijuana

Marijuana is a derivative of the hemp plant and is illegally used for its intoxicating effects and dreamy state of relaxation and euphoria. All forms of marijuana have negative physical and mental effects. The active ingredient in marijuana is Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, and is present in all forms of the drug.

Signs and symptoms of use:

Physical

• Substantial increase in heart rate
• Bloodshot eyes
• Dry mouth and throat
• Increased appetite
• Chronic sore throat

Mental

• Impaired or reduced short-term memory and comprehension
• Altered sense of time
• Changed sensory perception--sight, smell, hearing, touch
• Reduced ability to perform tasks requiring concentration and coordination,
  such as driving a car.

Health effects:

• Emphysema-like symptoms
• Respiratory track and sinus infections
• Lowered immune system response

Workplace issues:

• Employees who fall under Federal guidelines such as the Department of Transportation’s testing regulations are prohibited from using marijuana in any form.
• THC is stored in the body fat and is slowly released over time. Since it is retained in the fat, an employee can test positive many days after use.
• Many employers also have work rules requiring the employee to disclose if he or she is taking any sedating medications that could impact his or her ability to work safely. This rule would apply even in states that have approved the medicinal use of marijuana.
• The use of marijuana definitely would cause fitness-for-duty concerns.