Cannabinoids refer to natural substances derived from the Cannabis sativa plant as well as synthetic drugs designed to mimic the effects of cannabis. The Cannabis sativa plant produces hundreds of different cannabinoids and cannabinoid compounds. All the drugs that fall under this umbrella bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system, which leads to similar effects.
What are cannabinoids?
The main cannabinoids derived naturally from Cannabis sativa are THC and CBD. THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive element in marijuana, which produces the drug’s characteristic high. CBD, or cannabidiol, is another commonly used cannabinoid that can reduce anxiety and pain, making it one of the most commonly prescribed medicinal cannabinoids.
Synthetic cannabinoids may be more unpredictable even though they are manufactured to create similar effects as those from naturally derived cannabinoids. They may be more dangerous as a result of their potency and may cause more severe side effects such as agitation, tachycardia, and psychotic symptoms.
Marijuana
Marijuana is the most commonly used cannabinoid, which may be smoked, inhaled, or ingested as an edible. Marijuana induces feelings of relaxation, giddiness, and amusement as a result of its THC content – its main psychoactive component. Marijuana is also known to produce adverse side effects such as anxiety, dry mouth, impaired reflexes, and impaired memory.
Medicinal cannabis
The difference between medicinal cannabis and marijuana is that medicinal cannabis does not contain THC, and thus, does not produce a high. However, it has many beneficial medical effects, such as alleviating pain and reducing anxiety. It may be prescribed to help those with chronic illnesses such as cancer.
Hash oil
Hash oil is concentrated cannabis made up of resins and terpenes that is extracted from cannabis or hashish. This process produces a substance that can have a THC concentration of up to 80%, which is far greater than natural cannabis that ranges in concentration between 10-25%. Hash oil produces feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and increased appetite. Due to its potency, it can also severely impact reflexes, create paranoia, panic and anxiety, and dissociation.
Synthetic cannabis
Synthetic cannabis is part of a class of drugs developed in a lab known more broadly as New Psychoactive Substances (NPS). These drugs are designed to mimic the effects of cannabis and thus meant to avoid incorporating substances like THC, which are otherwise criminalized. When produced illicitly, synthetic cannabis may have an unknown potency or may be cut with dangerous substances like THC, leading to harmful effects such as paranoia, vomiting, seizures, or cardiovascular irregularities.
What is the difference between marijuana and cannabis?
Though marijuana and cannabis are often used interchangeably, cannabis is a broader term that includes all substances derived from Cannabis sativa. Some of these substances such as CBD and hemp have no psychoactive effects. They don’t produce any high because they have little to no THC. However, marijuana refers to substances from Cannabis sativa that contain THC. This means that they induce a high to some degree.
How cannabinoids affect the brain
To understand the effects of cannabinoids, you have to understand what cannabinoid receptors do in the brain. Cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system and brain are involved in several functions including mood, appetite, memory, and the perception of pain. When cannabinoids enter the nervous system, they bind to and activate these cannabinoid receptors, stimulating their effects. This is what produces the feelings of relaxation and well-being and can reduce the sensation of pain.
Marijuana: This is the most well-known and most used cannabinoid extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant. It is made up of the dried buds of the plant, which are often smoked.
Hemp: Hemp refers to the fibers of Cannabis sativa, which can be used industrially to create fabric, paper, and rope. It does not have enough THC to produce a high.
Medicinal cannabinoids: These cannabinoids that are prescribed for medical purposes like alleviating pain or reducing anxiety don’t produce a high. They include natural cannabis extracts such as Nabiximols as well as synthetic cannabinoids such as Dronabinol.
HU-210: Discovered in the 1980s, this synthetic cannabinoid is one of the most well known. Its potency is 100 times greater than THC that occurs naturally.
JWH: There are hundreds of varieties of this synthetic cannabinoid and they each have varying levels of potency and toxicity.
5F-ADB: This dangerous synthetic cannabinoid is associated with overdoses because of its potency.
Synthetic cannabinoids
Synthetic cannabinoids do not occur naturally and do not use elements from Cannabis sativa. However, they are specifically designed to mimic the effects of cannabis. They are often more powerful than naturally derived THC, which means they may have dangerous effects. Along with other New Psychoactive Substances, synthetic cannabinoids can skirt regulation of controlled substances. This is because without the illicit component, synthetic cannabinoids can be sold legally. However, their production may be difficult to regulate, leading to increased potential for unpredictable or toxic cannabinoids.
Cannabinoid side effects
The side effects of cannabinoids can vary according to the type of cannabinoid used as well as dosage, individual characteristics, and interactions with other substances. Most cannabinoids create similar side effects including:
- Increased heart rate
- Decreased blood pressure
- Increased appetite
- Impaired judgment and coordination
- Memory problems
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
- Anxiety and panic
- Delusions and hallucinations
Cannabinoid withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms occur when the body adjusts to having increased levels of cannabinoids in the body. When this prolonged use is discontinued or drastically reduced, individuals may experience a variety of unpleasant withdrawal effects. These symptoms include:
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Hot flashes
Recovering from Cannabinoid use
Cannabis and cannabinoids are the most commonly used drugs in the US. Marijuana, in particular, is well-known as a gateway drug because it is associated with a higher likelihood of using more potent illicit drugs such as opioids. In addition to its unpleasant short-term effects, long-term use can lead to prolonged effects on memory, coordination, and mood. This use may also have detrimental effects on daily function, social relationships, and professional responsibilities.
Rehabilitation programs can help you safely detox from cannabis use and teach you skills and coping mechanisms necessary to live your life without the use of cannabis and cannabinoids. By treating the whole individual, underlying psychological or medical issues can be addressed while emphasizing overall well-being and healthier stress management strategies.
Cannabinoids FAQs
Is marijuana legal?
Though some states have legalized the medical or recreational use of marijuana, it is still considered a controlled substance at the federal level in the United States. In addition to THC, other cannabinoids such as CBD are still considered illegal by the federal government.
Is it possible to overdose on cannabinoids?
Overdose cannot occur as a result of cannabinoid use. However, some synthetic cannabinoids are cut with more dangerous substances in the laboratory, leading to a greater chance of adverse effects including overdose.
Is it possible to become addicted to CBD?
Though CBD may be medically prescribed and does not itself cause physical dependence, it is possible to develop a psychological dependence. If CBD is used in excess or when it is relied on wholly to manage stress, it may constitute an addiction.
Cannabinoids Abuse Recovery at Austin Pines Ranch
Conveniently located in the Austin Metropolitan area, Austin Pines Ranch can provide effective and individualized addiction treatment services for people from all walks of life. Becoming addicted to a substance that treats an existing medical or psychiatric condition has specific challenges that we are equipped to address. Our tranquil 14-acre ranch offers peace and privacy to help you safely recover from antidepressant abuse and addiction.
If you or a loved one is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, call our treatment center today at (877) 982-3600. Our knowledgeable medical doctors, nurses, addiction specialists, therapists, and case workers are committed to your care. Whether you live in Texas or you’re looking for new surroundings, Austin Pines can be your safe haven and provide the tools you need to overcome antidepressant abuse and treat your underlying depression.
