THC Pharmacology: Kinetics and Mechanisms of Action

Introduction

Cannabis has been used for medicine for a long time. Ancient Chinese texts mention its use 5000 years ago. It was used to treat conditions like malaria and pain.

Egypt and India also used cannabis medicinally 3000 years ago. In Canada, the US, and the UK, it was in pharmacies. But in the 1970s, worries about its effects made it illegal.

Cannabis came from Asia and reached the West in the 16th century. There are different types like sativa and indica, with varying compounds. .

Cannabis has 540 compounds, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD. These compounds have potential for therapy.

THC and CBD are well-studied. THC gives the high, while CBD has therapeutic potential.

Cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 were found in 1990 and 1993. Phytocannabinoids interact with these and other receptors to influence health.

Cannabis has a history in medicine, and research continues for conditions like pain, epilepsy, and neurodegeneration. (2)

Recently, interest in cannabis for medicine returned. Legalisation will help research its full potential. (1)

Pharmacokinetics of Cannabinoids: Absorption, Bioavailability, and Elimination

Cannabinoids absorb quickly due to their nature. Most of the data that focuses on THC, and CBD studies are recent. THC and CBD act differently based on users, doses, forms, and how they’re taken.

Smoking or vaping leads to higher blood levels and faster effects than oral use. One puff of THC makes it detectable, peaking in 10 minutes. THC’s bioavailability varies, affected by factors like product and inhalation details. (3)

Smoked CBD might have about 31% bioavailability, but more research on smoking vs. vaping is needed. Orally, absorption varies and is lower. Effects take time, influenced by factors like concentration and user activity.

THC spreads quickly in fatty tissues and organs. Most binds to plasma proteins. It releases slowly from fat stores. THC’s elimination half-life varies, being around 6 minutes initially and 22 hours later.

CBD’s elimination half-life is long too. Inhaled CBD’s half-life is around 31 hours. Daily oral use ranges from 2 to 5 days. (4)

THC: Mechanism of action

THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the nervous system and tissues. This starts complex signals affecting neurotransmitters, pain, mood, and immunity. THC binding to CB1 receptors in the brain changes neurotransmitter release. It affects dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate, altering mood and cognition. THC’s interaction with CB1 receptors also affects ion channels, changing neuronal activity. Activation of potassium channels by THC suppresses neurotransmitter release. This affects synaptic plasticity and contributes to cognitive issues after using cannabis. THC can prompt retrograde signaling by binding to CB1 receptors on presynaptic terminals. This leads to endocannabinoid release, adjusting neurotransmitter communication. THC interacts with CB2 receptors on immune cells beyond the nervous system. This affects immune responses and inflammation, showing potential for therapies. THC can alter gene expression by changing DNA methylation patterns. This might explain lasting cognitive and behavioral effects. (5)

Understanding THC Vaping Kinetics:

Vaping THC is different from smoking. Vaping heats cannabis to release compounds like THC as vapor. Inhaling this vapor sends it into your bloodstream fast. (5)

THC vaping kinetics is how your body processes THC from vaping. It has stages:

1. Inhalation: Vaping sends THC vapor into your lungs when you take a puff.
2. Absorption: THC moves quickly from your lungs to your blood. This is why vaping gives fast effects.
3. Distribution: THC travels through your body, even your brain, causing known effects.
4. Metabolism: Your liver breaks down THC. This affects how long vaping effects last.
5. Elimination: Your body clears THC and its leftovers. It’s mainly through urine and feces.

The speed of these stages changes based on THC strength, the vape device, and your metabolism. Vaping gives quick and strong effects.

Remember, vaping has risks. High THC levels and unsafe substances can harm you. Quick effects may lead to overuse.

Quick Action of THC Vape:

Vaping THC, a compound found in cannabis, brings about rapid effects. Unlike traditional methods like smoking, vaping involves heating cannabis at a specific temperature to produce vapor. Inhaling this vapor allows the active compounds, including THC, to enter the bloodstream swiftly.

The quick action of THC vape is due to its direct path into the lungs and bloodstream. When you take a puff from a vape pen, the vapor containing THC is inhaled into the lungs. From there, THC molecules swiftly move into the bloodstream, leading to a fast onset of effects.

This rapid action is why many people prefer vaping for almost instant relief. It’s important to note, however, that the intensity of the effects and how long they last can still vary based on factors such as the potency of the THC, individual tolerance, and the specific vaping device used.

While the quick action of THC vape offers convenience, there are also considerations to keep in mind. The fast onset can sometimes catch users off guard, potentially leading to overconsumption. Additionally, the use of high-potency THC products can increase the risk of unwanted side effects or negative experiences.

As with any cannabis consumption method, understanding your own tolerance and starting with lower doses is key to having a positive and safe experience with THC vape. It’s recommended to be aware of the potential for quick effects and to use responsibly. If you’re new to THC or vaping, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or experienced users to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. (5)

Fast THC Elimination from Vaping:

When you vape THC, the active part of cannabis, its effects don’t last long. Unlike other ways of using it, THC leaves your body quickly after vaping.

After you breathe in THC through vaping, it goes to your lungs and then into your blood fast. Your body’s metabolism breaks down THC into different parts. These parts leave your body through pee and poop.

Because THC leaves your body quickly, the effects of vaping THC are short. How fast your body gets rid of THC and its parts can change. It depends on things like how fast your body works, how often you vape, and how strong the THC is.

Knowing that THC leaves your body quickly is important when you vape. If you need to be clear-headed or pass a drug test, it’s good to know how long THC stays in your system after vaping. (4) weed pens uk

Conclusion

Exploring THC’s effects has shown its scientific and clinical potential. THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system through CB1 and CB2 receptors. This triggers signals affecting many body processes. From neurotransmitters to retrograde signaling, THC impacts cognition and emotions. New insights into THC’s gene-altering effects spark further research. Understanding THC’s actions guides potential therapies for various conditions. But caution and rigorous research are crucial in harnessing its potential.

References

1. Aggarwal SK, Carter GT, Sullivan MD, ZumBrunnen C, Morrill R, Mayer JD (2009) Medicinal use of cannabis in the United States: historical perspectives, current trends, and future directions. J Opioid Manag 5(3):153–168
2. Jiang HE, Li X, Zhao YX, Ferguson DK, Hueber F, Bera S et al (2006) A new insight into Cannabis sativa (Cannabaceae) utilization from 2500-year-old Yanghai Tombs, Xinjiang, China. J Ethnopharmacol 108(3):414–422
3. Huestis MA. Human cannabinoid pharmacokinetics. Chem Biodivers 2007;4(8):1770-804
4. Grotenhermen F. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. Clin Pharmacokinet 2003;42(4):327-60.
5. Lucas CJ, Galettis P, Schneider J. The pharmacokinetics and the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2018;84(11):2477-82.