PSYC62H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 11: Muscle Tone, Hypotension, Weight Gain
Document Summary
Cannabinoid drugs consist of psychoactive substances that act on cannabinoid receptors in nervous system: cannabis: plants that contain naturally occurring psychoactive cannabinoids. Cannabis sativa: trichomes: release biologically active substances called phytocannabinoids. B-caryophyllene: marijuana: dried cannabis flowers, leaves, and stems, hashish: condensed preparation of cannabis that primarily contains trichome resins, herbal marijuana alternatives: laboratory-synthesized cannabinoid receptor agonists. Routes of administration: for both recreational and instrumental purposes, users administer cannabis via oral or inhalation routes. 50% of 9-thc encounters first pass metabolism, producing active metabolites. 50% of 9-thc releases into smoke from combusted cannabis. Most 9-thc absorbs into bloodstream and reaches the brain after a few minutes: 9-thc exhibits high lipid solubility. Leads to rapid distribution into tissues (including the brain) and accumulation in fat. 9-thc in fat releases slowly over time, leading to long-term pharmacological actions. Endocannabinoid system and long elimination rates: endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitters (endocannabinoids): 2-arachidonoylglycerol: endocannabinoids are not stored in vesicles and are released immediately after synthesis.
