CJ 4002 Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: Gateway Drug Theory, Cannabis Sativa, Physical Dependence
31 Jan 2017
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Ease and speed of absorption into bloodstream and brain. Potency (quantity of drug to produce effect) Purity (% of drug contained in the sample) Rate of metabolism (fat-soluble vs. water-soluble drugs) Interactions with other drugs, synergistic or antagonistic effects. Negative consequences as a result of drug use. Compulsive use, drug use becomes central to person"s daily life. Dried leaves, buds, stems of cannabis sativa plant. Used since 3rd century bc; hashish used in europe in the middle ages. Widely dispensed by doctors and pharmacists through 19th century, and accepted medicine up until 1940s. Stimulates cannabinoid receptors in areas of brain affecting pleasure, memory, concentration, sensory perceptions. Activates dopamine reward system in the brain. Impaired coordination and motor skills (e. g. , driving) Exposure during brain development can cause long-term damage. Impaired memory and learning, lethargy, anxiety and depression. Recreational use a concern beginning in early 1900s. Some evidence for dependence (tolerance and withdrawal)
