Understanding marijuana’s risks to the brain, from the Harvard Mental Health Letter
As a treatment for physical ailments, marijuana has been shown to be effective at relieving pain, stimulating the appetite, and controlling cancer-related nausea and vomiting. These uses underlie the movement to legalize marijuana for medical use in the United States. As a treatment for psychiatric disorders, though, the risks of marijuana use exceed the benefits, reports the April 2010 issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter.
Regular use of marijuana can lead to addiction and other mental health problems, especially in people who are genetically vulnerable, notes Dr. Michael Miller, editor in chief of the Harvard Mental Health Letter.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.