Tetrahydrocannabinol
(in CANNABIS)
“The High Causer”
What it isDelta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis and a partial agonist at CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Why this oneThe reference cannabinoid: drives cannabis intoxication, appetite stimulation and antiemesis, unlike non-intoxicating cannabidiol.
What limits itTachycardia, anxiety, psychosis risk, impaired driving; hyperemesis with heavy use; CYP3A4/2C9 substrate.
Pearls
- Lowers intraocular pressure only 3–4 hours; not recommended for glaucoma.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Classes and tags
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Self-check
- Is THC a full or partial cannabinoid-receptor agonist?
Partial. - What vomiting syndrome can heavy chronic THC use cause?
Cannabinoid hyperemesis.