Question

Psychopharmacology of marijuana Add incitation's and resource

Answer 1

• Cannabis can be obtained in several different types of preparations, including marijuana and hashish, both of which may be smoked or taken orally.
• Marijuana has a wide range of pharmacologic effects that suggest actions like those of stimulants such as the AMPHETAMINES, hallucinogens such as LSD, and depressants such as alcohol, SEDATIVES, atropine, or MORPHINE. Thus, marijuana does not fit any single traditional pharmacologic classification, and, hence, must be considered as a separate class.
• Most effects of the drug have usually vanished after three hours, by which time tests show that concentrations of THC in the body's plasma are low. Peak effects after eating marijuana may be delayed for three to four hours, but may then last for six to eight hours.
• The early stage is one of being high, characterized by euphoria, uncontrollable laughter, alteration of one's sense of time, depersonalization, and sharpened vision. Later, the user becomes relaxed and experiences introspective and dreamlike states, if not actual sleep. Thinking or concentrating becomes difficult, although by force of will the person can concentrate to some extent.
• Two characteristic signs of Cannabis intoxication are increased pulse rate and reddening of the conjunctiva (the whites of the eyes). The latter correlates well with the presence of detectable concentrations of THC in the plasma.
• Pupil size is not changed. The blood pressure may fall, especially in the upright position (orthostatic hypotension). An antiemetic (decrease in sense of nausea) effect may be present, and muscle weakness, tremors, unsteadiness, and increased deep-tendon reflexes (such as the knee jerk) may also be noted.