Marijuana is the most commonly abused drug in the United States. The number of people who are dependent on this drug is more than the combined numbers of those that abuse pain relievers, tranquilizers, and other regulated substances. Today, millions of Americans use or have tried smoking marijuana (Office of National Drug Control Policy). Its continued popularity rests on the effects its active chemical component has on the over activation of the end cannabinoid system of the brain that causes a “high.” Cannabis is even said to alleviate the nausea and pain associated with some serious illnesses that it has been legalized for use in such medical cases in some states. Others are intending to follow. However, despite the “high” and the relief from pain that cannabis facilitates, strict regulations should be in place against its legalization as smoking marijuana irritates the lungs, increases acute chest illnesses and lung infections, affects heart activity, is highly addictive, and can affect normal brain function so that the benefits of marijuana do not outweigh the health risks it poses.

Outline
I. Thesis: However, despite the “high” and the relief from pain that cannabis facilitates, strict regulations should be in place against its legalization as smoking marijuana irritates the lungs, increases acute chest illnesses and lung infections, affects heart activity, is highly addictive, and can affect normal brain function so that the benefits of marijuana do not