Cannabis Flashcards
why is cannabis difficult to classify
sedative like effects
analgesia
psychedelic effects
what is THC
- found in resin of the plant which is mostly in the flowers
- THC content can vary depending on the strain, growing conditions, time of harvest etc
Describe marijuana when smoked
THC rapidly absorbed through the lungs
- accumulates in the organs
- half life of 20-30 hours
- very lipid soluble
Describe marijuana when eaten
- Less THC gets to the brain (first pass in metabolism)
- takes longer for THC to get to the brain
- Effects take longer to start and lasts longer
where are cannabinoid receptors found
brain, immune system, and GI tract
what is the function of endocannabinoids
play a role in learning, control of anxiety, and reducing the perception of pain
Describe cannabinoid receptors
CB1 and CB2
receptors localized to the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala
metabotropic receptors
inhibit acetylcholine release in hippocampus
inhibit NE release in PNS (sympathetic nerve terminals) and CNS (hippocampus, cortex, and cerebellum)
Describe CB1 receptors
mostly localized in the CNS, and mediates the psychoactive properties of THC
Describe CB2 receptors
mostly localized in the PNS, and most likely mediates the effects of THC on the immune system
how does cannabis affect the cerebral cortex
dreamlike state of the high
distortion in time, sound, color, taste, ability to concentrate, and mood effects
how does cannabis affect the basal ganglia and cerebellum
effects on movement and postural control
how does cannabis affect the hippocampus
disruption of memory and memory storage
how does cannabis affect the hypothalamus
decreased production of reproductive hormones
why is it almost impossible to die from cannabis use
no cannabinoid receptors in the brainstem therefore no effect on life support systems
what is anandamide
endogenous ligand for cannabinoid receptors
- very lipid soluble
- marijuana like effect
- modulate acetylcholine transmission and involved in memory and other functions