About this episode

This episode discusses the pharmacology of cannabinoids, focusing on THC and its effects on the endocannabinoid system.

Contributor: Travis Barlock, MD Educational Pearls: Endocannabinoid System: THC binds CB1 and CB2 receptors in neurons and immune cells Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis CB1 and CB2 receptors typically bind endogenously-produced 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide (AEA) to regulate pain, stress, and inflammation THC similarly binds CB1 and CB2, leading to the cannabinoid high: euphoria, paranoia, anxiety, analgesia, anti-inflammation, and appetite, among a variety of others Ingestion via edibles, vice inhalation via smoking, leads to chemical modification of Δ9-THC to 11-hydroxy-Δ9-THC, which more easily crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds CB1 with higher affinity, leading to increased psychoactivity Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS): Chronic THC use leading to the classic presentation of persistent nausea and intense, frequent vomiting Chronic activation of CB1 receptors in brain builds a tolerance and dependence on THC, in addition to chronic activation of the capsaicin and vanilloid receptor TRPV1, which binds capsaicin or is activated by heat Treatment by warm showers works due to TRPV1 activation by heat Treated…

People in this episode

Guest: Travis Barlock, MD

Topics covered

• cannabinoid pharmacology
• endocannabinoid system
• THC effects
• Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
• synthetic cannabinoids
• pain management
• psychoactive compounds

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), anandamide (AEA), Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), benzodiazepines, acetaminophen, K2, spice, black mamba, mojo

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