Cannabis Flashcards
What is cannabis primarily derived from?
Cannabis sativa plant
A member of the hemp family
How long has cannabis been cultivated?
At least 4500 years
Originated in Central Asia
What are the three main constituents of cannabis?
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabidiol
- Cannabinol
Which cannabinoid is considered the main active compound?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
First isolated and identified in 1964
What are the two types of cannabinoid receptors?
- CB1
- CB2
Where are CB1 receptors primarily located?
In the brain
Involved in consciousness, memory, coordination, and more
What physiological effect does THC have on the mood?
Relaxation and sense of well-being
Similar to ethanol effects without aggression
What is the significance of anandamide in the context of cannabinoids?
It is the first endogenous cannabinoid discovered
Mimics the effects of cannabinoids
Fill in the blank: The discovery of cannabinoid receptors was made in _______.
1988
What are some clinical applications of cannabinoid drugs?
- Nausea and vomiting in cancer chemotherapy
- Weight loss in cancer and AIDS
- Glaucoma treatment
- Multiple sclerosis
- Pain management
- Anxiety
What is the potential use of rimonabant?
Treating obesity by blocking endocannabinoid stimulation of appetite
Early data suggests effectiveness
What are some short-term adverse effects of cannabinoid receptor stimulation?
- Euphoria
- Drowsiness
- Sensory distortion
- Loss of short-term memory
True or False: Long-term use of cannabinoids is universally accepted to be safe.
False
Long-term usage may induce psychological problems
What is the ‘gateway theory’ in relation to cannabis?
It suggests that use of cannabinoids may stimulate needs for stronger, more addictive drugs
What historical use of cannabis was noted during WWII?
Used as a truth serum
Developed by a US intelligence agency
What are the two distinct strategies for clinical applications of cannabinoids?
- Activation of the cannabinoid receptor
- Inhibiting the cannabinoid receptor
What role do endocannabinoids play in the body?
Modulate several key physiological activities
Includes cardiovascular function, pain regulation, and appetite
Which cannabinoid is known to be a precursor for THC?
Cannabidiol
What effect does THC have on the digestive system?
Reduces nausea and vomiting, stimulates appetite
What is a major concern regarding the long-term effects of cannabinoid treatment?
Potential psychological disturbance
Ongoing research is needed
Fill in the blank: Cannabinoids were historically used in the 1940s as a _______.
Truth serum
What was Queen Victoria’s personal doctor’s claim about cannabis in 1890?
Cannabis is one of the most valuable medicines we possess
What is the primary cannabinoid found in the resin of the cannabis plant?
THC
