1: Control centers in the brain are affected by drug use
Drugs of abuse disable or disrupt important brain functions.
When someone smokes marijuana, for example, the chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, travels quickly to the brain. We can see the areas of the brain (in dark blue) where THC concentrates. Let’s go back to the previous image and see the areas of the brain that are affected by THC.
[PRESENTER: Please return to the previous image and point out these areas.]
You can see that THC builds up in areas that control the body’s movements, balance, coordination, memory and judgment abilities, and sensations. THC disrupts your brain’s ability to control these activities as well as you could normally.
Attention
Due to the lapse in government funding, the information on this web site may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the web site may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted. Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at
Looking for Treatment?
Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or 1-800-662-HELP.
Helpline open during government shutdown
Featured Publication
Drugs, Brains, and Behavior - The Science of Addiction
As a result of scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior.




