D&B - Cannabis (Final)

what is cannabis?

a stimulant, sedative, analgesic, and hallucinogen

cannabis - sativa

• tall, slender, lighter green leaves

• stimulating

  • boosts energy

  • eases depression

  • increases focus

• typically more energizing

cannabis - indica

• short, wide, dark green leaves

• relaxing

  • sedative

  • relieves pain

  • stimulates appetite

• sedating + varying THC/CBD ratios

what is the active component in cannabis sativa?

THC

what is the active component in cannabis indica?

CBD

what types of things affect the levels of THC in cannabis?

• type of cannabis plant

• growing conditions

• timing of harvest

• storage

• age of plant

endocannabinoid

• anandamide (AEA), 2-AG

• endogenous substances that bind to the body’s cannabinoid receptors

phytocannabinoid

• THC, CBD

• naturally occurring plant compounds which bind to the body’s cannabinoid receptors

what are the cannabinoid receptor subtypes?

• CB1 receptor

• CB2 receptor

where is the CB1 receptor mainly located and how do they work?

axon terminals in the CNS

where is the CB2 receptor mainly located and how do they work?

immune cells

endocannabinoids - how are in which they are made different?

made on demand when needed by the body

endocannabinoids - potential functions

• pain relief

• appetite & hunger

• removing/modifying memories/unlearning associations

how does THC work at the synapse?

• partial CB1 receptor agonist

• inhibits GABA release

(also affects glu, 5HT, and acetylcholine)

cannabis - acute behavioral effects

• paranoia

• anxiety

• panic

cannabis - factors that affect how someone experiences cannabis

• dose

• potency of the strain

• ratio of THC:CBD & other phytocannabinoids

• user’s previous experience, expectations, & mood

• environment in which it is used

cannabis - ROA/absorption

• inhalation (joints, pipes, bongs, vaporizers)

• oral (often dissolved in an oil/fat)

  • slower onset of effect, ↓ predictability of action, ↓ use control

cannabis - 2 medicinal uses

• tx of chronic pain

• reduce n/v

cannabis - 2 possible negative health effects

• respiratory problems (long term smoking)

• increased risk of Sz/psychosis