NIDA for Teens: The Science Behind Drug Abuse
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  • Marijuana: A drug, usually smoked but can be eaten, that is made from the leaves of the cannabis plant. The main psychoactive ingredient is THC. [5]
  • Medication: A drug that is used to treat an illness or disease according to established medical guidelines. [5]
  • Metabolism: The processes by which the body breaks things down or alters them so they can be eliminated. [5]
  • Methamphetamine: A commonly abused, potent stimulant drug that is part of a larger family of amphetamines. [5]
  • Methylphenidate (RitalinĀ®): Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant. It has effects similar to, but more potent than, caffeine and less potent than amphetamines. It has a notably calming and "focusing" effect on those with ADHD, particularly children. [7]
  • Musculoskeletal system: The muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. [2]
  • Myelin: Fatty material that surrounds and insulates axons of most neurons. [9]
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