Marijuana

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on notes about marijuana and its effects, components, and therapeutic uses.

Cannabis

The plant from which marijuana is derived, comprising species such as cannabis sativa, cannabis indica, and cannabis ruderalis.

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

A psychoactive component of cannabis that is responsible for its effects.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

A component of cannabis that does not have psychoactive effects and is often used for therapeutic purposes.

Anandamide

An endogenous cannabinoid naturally produced in the body, involved in regulating pain, mood, and appetite. Unlike THC and CBD, anandamide is produced internally and functions as a neurotransmitter.

Cannabinoid Receptors and Brain Regions

Special receptors in the brain (primarily CB1) and immune system (CB2) that are stimulated by cannabinoids. High concentrations of CB1 receptors are found in:

• Hippocampus: Influences memory formation and recall.
• Basal Ganglia: Affects motor control and movement.
• Cerebellum: Impacts coordination and balance.
• Cerebral Cortex: Affects higher cognitive functions like decision-making and perception.

Stimulation of these receptors by THC leads to its diverse psychoactive effects.

Acute Effects of THC and Dose-Dependent Responses

Short-term effects of THC use vary with dosage:

• Low Doses: Often lead to relaxation, mild euphoria, and enhanced sensory perception.
• High Doses: Can result in increased heart rate, slowed reaction time, impaired coordination, anxiety, paranoia, and, in some cases, acute psychotic symptoms. Other effects include disinhibition and altered time perception.

Chronic Effects of Cannabis Use

Long-term effects of cannabis use can include:

• Cognitive Decline: Impairment in memory and attention, especially with adolescent use.
• Mental Health: Increased risk of psychosis in susceptible individuals.
• Physical Health: Respiratory issues (if smoked), male infertility, and potential impact on developing brains.
• Amotivational Syndrome: A condition characterized by decreased motivation and lethargy.

Amotivational Syndrome

A condition associated with long-term cannabis use characterized by decreased motivation and lethargy.

Cannabis Tolerance and Withdrawal Syndrome

• **Tolerance:** Develops with chronic use, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects, often due to downregulation of cannabinoid receptors.
• **Withdrawal:** A set of unpleasant symptoms experienced upon cessation of heavy, prolonged cannabis use, including irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, and cravings.

THC Detection Windows and Potency Factors

THC is lipid-soluble and stored in body fat, allowing it to be detected in urine, blood, or hair for extended periods (days to weeks, or even months for chronic users) after use. Factors influencing cannabis potency include:

• THC concentration in the product.
• Method of consumption (e.g., smoking, edibles).
• Individual metabolism and body fat percentage.

Gateway Drug

A theory suggesting that cannabis use may lead to the use of harder drugs, emphasizing the complexity of drug use relationships.

Legalization Effects

Post-legalization impacts of cannabis, which include job creation and tax revenue without significant effects on crime or traffic accidents.

Therapeutic Uses of Cannabis

Medical applications of cannabis which can include treatment for chronic pain, nausea, and psychiatric disorders.