). A minority of marijuana users experience dysphoria, or unpleasant feelings.THC is the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Cannabinoids are the group of compounds related to THC, whether found in the marijuana plant, in animals, or synthesized in chemistry laboratories. Cannabinoids likely have a natural role in pain modulation, control of movement, and memory. The natural role of cannabinoids in immune systems is likely multifaceted and remains unclear. The brain can and will develop a tolerance to cannabinoids after a prolonged use of marijuana (Joy). Animal research has shown the possibility that dependence will occur, but this possibility is much lower than the chance of developing a dependence on benzodiazepines, opiates, cocaine, or nicotine. Withdrawal symptoms have also been seen in animal testing. The symptoms are much milder than the symptoms of withdrawal from some prescribed medications such as Valium and Codeine (Mathre, 25). Chemotherapy can often prolong someones life for many years. In some cases, a complete "cure" can be obtained. Unfortunately, chemotherapy has many side effects associated with it that are not pleasant in the least bit. Patients sometimes find these effects so distressing they abandon chemotherapy entirely. People with AIDS (Acquired Immune Disease) also experience these problems (Zimmerman, 59). Studies with marijuana have shown that marijuana reduces the nausea and vomiting often associated with chemotherapy treatments. Because the marijuana does this, it provides two other benefits. The patient is able to retain food and maintain body strength and he or she can tolerate the chemotherapy treatments for a longer amount of time in order to live longer (Mathre, 68). In September 1988, the chief administrative law judge of the Drug Enforcement Administration ruled that marijuana has medical value in the treatment of side effects caused by cancer chemotherapy. His decision was over-ruled by t...
