cannabis

Introduction

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been used for both medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. The plant contains numerous bioactive compounds, primarily cannabinoids, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. Recent research has focused on understanding the pharmacological properties, therapeutic potential, and safety concerns associated with cannabis use.

Key Insights

Pharmacological Mechanisms and Effects
- The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), exerts its effects through the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, leading to various central effects such as psychomotor disruption, short-term memory impairment, and appetite stimulation .
- Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system, which includes CB1 and CB2 receptors, endogenous ligands like anandamide, and metabolizing enzymes .
Therapeutic Applications
- Cannabis and its derivatives are used to treat conditions such as pain, muscle spasms, nausea, and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy and AIDS .
- Cannabinoids have shown potential in treating various types of cancer by modulating multiple cancer-related pathways and enhancing the efficacy of cancer therapeutics .
- Medical cannabis is also being explored for its potential in treating multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and neuropathic pain .
Safety and Adverse Effects
- Chronic cannabis use can lead to mild cognitive impairments, but there is little evidence to suggest these impairments are irreversible or accompanied by neuropathology .
- Adverse effects of cannabis include dizziness, memory and cognitive impairments, and an increased risk of psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, particularly with adolescent use .
- The psychoactive properties and poor bioavailability of some cannabinoids limit their medical use .
Chemical Composition and Standardization
- Cannabis contains over 100 different cannabinoids, with THC and cannabidiol (CBD) being the most studied. The plant also produces numerous secondary metabolites like terpenes, which may contribute to the therapeutic benefits through the "entourage effect" .
- Effective delivery of cannabis-based pharmaceuticals relies on the stable genetic background and standardized growth of the plant material .

Conclusion

Cannabis has a complex pharmacological profile and offers significant therapeutic potential for various medical conditions, particularly in pain management, cancer treatment, and neurological disorders. However, its use is accompanied by safety concerns, including cognitive impairments and psychiatric risks. Standardization and further research are essential to fully harness the therapeutic benefits of cannabis while minimizing its adverse effects.

Summary

Introduction

Key Insights

Conclusion

Sources and full results

Cannabis and the brain.

Cannabis' central effects include disruption of psychomotor behavior, short-term memory impairment, intoxication, stimulation of appetite, antinociceptive actions, and potential medical applications in treating multiple sclerosis symptoms.

Cannabis, from plant to pill

Cannabis therapeutics can be effectively delivered through standardized growth and extraction, utilizing the plant's diverse cannabinoids and terpenes for therapeutic benefits.

Chemical constituents of marijuana: the complex mixture of natural cannabinoids.

Cannabis contains a complex mixture of natural cannabinoids, which are responsible for its psychological properties and social aspects, making its approval as a medicine challenging.

The Pharmacologic and Clinical Effects of Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis significantly improves pain and muscle spasticity, with potential safety concerns including increased risk of schizophrenia, memory impairments, and accidental ingestions.

Cannabis sativa: The Plant of the Thousand and One Molecules

Cannabis sativa L. is a valuable source of phytochemicals and fibers, with potential health benefits and potential for bioplastics and construction materials.

Cannabis, cannabinoids, and health

Cannabis use has harmful psychiatric and addictive effects, with synthetic cannabinoid use increasing, but certain cannabinoids and their synthetic derivatives have therapeutic properties for certain indications.

Cannabis and its Constituents for Cancer: History, Biogenesis, Chemistry and Pharmacological Activities.

Cannabis and its constituents show potential in preventing and treating various cancers by modulating various cancer-related pathways and enhancing the efficacy of cancer therapeutics.

Cannabis in cancer care

Cannabinoids show potential in treating cancer-related nausea, vomiting, and anorexia, but their medical use is limited by their psychoactive effects and limited bioavailability.

Cannabis: A Toxin-Producing Plant with Potential Therapeutic Uses

Cannabis has potential therapeutic effects for treating pain and emesis, but high THC levels can cause psychological events and adverse effects on various body systems.

Cannabis: pharmacology and toxicology in animals and humans.

Cannabinoid pharmacology advances have led to the development of highly potent, non-toxic compounds with potential therapeutic benefits, but current products have limited usefulness due to undesirable side effects.

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