Peripheral and Central Effects of THC

Abstract

Although there is currently only limited knowledge of how activation of the CB-1 receptor in brain leads to the many actions of THC, some general features of cannabinoid control mechanisms are emerging. This chapter discusses THC in relation to the inhibition of neurotransmitter release, cardiovascular effects, effects on motility and pain, and behavioral models including the “Billy Martin tetrad.” It also discusses human laboratory models, including studies on learning and memory. A key effect of cannabis is intoxication, and the subjective effects of cannabis are reported in detail. Finally, the value of animal behavior studies is discussed, including discriminative stimulus effects, effects on cognition, and anti-anxiety effects.