Classes
DEA Class; (Herb/Suppl)
Common Brand Names; Cannabis, Ganja, Hash, Hashish, Hemp, Mary Jane, Pot, Reefer, Weed
- Analgesics, Herbals
Description
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a component of marijuana, acts both centrally and peripherally on endogenous cannabinoid receptors; activation of cannabinoid receptors affects serotonin release, increases catecholamines, inhibits parasympathetic activity, and inhibits prostaglandin biosynthesis
Indications
Decrease intraocular pressure, analgesia, antiemetic effects, appetite stimulant
Indicated for
- Analgesia, Antiemetic, Appetite Stimulant, Glaucoma
- Treatment of HIV-associated wasting syndrome
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Orphan)
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Coadministration with dronabinol (Cannabis derivative)
Adverse Effects
- Tolerance
- Psychological or physical dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Altered sensorium
- Dizziness
- Somnolence
- Fatigue
- Reduced coordination
- Cognitive impairment
- Impaired balance
- Euphoria
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Mood alterations
- Panic
- Anxiety
- Hypotension
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Flushing
- Syncope
- Xerostomia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dysgeusia
- Tooth discoloration
- Anorexia
- Increased appetite
- Oral candidiasis
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Urinary retention
- Skin rash
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Allergy
- Cough
- Pharyngitis
Warnings
History of substance abuse or mental illness
Hepatic disease
Cardiovascular disease
Seizure disorders
Nonpharmaceutical preparations contaminated with the fungus which may be hazardous to patients with compromised immune systems
Geriatric patients
Operating machinery or driving
Pregnancy and Lactation
FDA pregnancy category not available; insufficient data regarding safety to fetus, avoid use
THC found in Marijuana is reported to be concentrated and secreted into breast milk
How supplied
Analgesia, Antiemetic, Appetite Stimulant, Glaucoma
Dosing of marijuana preparations is highly dependent on a variety of factors (eg, growing and harvesting conditions, plant parts isolated)
No standard guidelines exist for dosage ranges
Oral
- Tincture: 5-15 drops or 1-3 drops of fluid extract
Inhalation
- 1-3 grains (65-195mg) cannabis for smoking
- Potency highly variable
- Drug deteriorates rapidly
