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Here is a small sampling of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) studies by title:
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The plant-based (phytocannabinoid) delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC) was discovered in 1964, and by 2016 thirty-one distinct members of this family had been identified. THC is primarily (but not exclusively) responsible for many therapeutic and adverse mind-altering effects of the plant. THC is the most studied of all cannabis constituents. THC is exclusive to cannabis, but it is also produced synthetically.
Here we focus on delta-9-THC.
Delta-9-THC
Dronabinol (Marinol®, Syndros®) are a synthetic version of delta-9-THC (other supplier-based synonyms)
IUPAC Name: (6aR,10aR)-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydrobenzo[c]chromen-1-ol
Molecular Formula: C21H30O2
Source–PubChem
Nabilone (Cesamet®) is a synthetic version of delta-9-THC (other supplier-based synonyms)
IUPAC Name: (6aR,10aR)-1-hydroxy-6,6-dimethyl-3-(2-methyloctan-2-yl)-7,8,10,10a-tetrahydro-6aH-benzo[c]chromen-9-one
Molecular Formula: C24H36O3
Source–PubChem
Delta-9-THC is a multi-target molecule. THC-abundant cannabis plants (i.e., chemotype I) or products have proven effects such as bronchodilation (CB1 inhibits cholinergic contraction of bronchi), appetite stimulation, down-regulation of the body’s immune responses, and potent analgesic properties in cases of central pains. In addition, they have been employed therapeutically in patients with asthma, HIV/AIDS-related anorexia, rheumatoid arthritis, or spinal cord injuries.
THC's multiple and simultaneous effects can produce many safe and therapeutic results when understood and used with its complexity in mind. But, unfortunately, cannabis (especially THC-abundant types) can worsen things, especially in THC-sensitive individuals or several specific cases.
For instance, while THC has been shown to work via several pathways by which it can create apoptotic (anti-cancer) effects, various pre-clinical trials have discovered that colon, ovarian, and metastasizing breast cancer cell lines rely, at least in part, on GPR-55 for proliferation. Since THC is an agonist at GPR-55, these early study results suggest caution in using a THC-rich type of cannabis for these particular cancers. While it might turn out that THC’s positive effects via CB1 or CB2 outweigh the potential pitfalls of GPR-55 activation on possible proliferation, a Chemotype II balanced type of cannabis or cannabis-based therapeutic may be the advisable option until the science becomes more discerning for this specific situations.
Other examples of using caution when using a type of cannabis containing primarily THC include patients with pancreatitis, individuals with vulnerabilities to developing psychosis, adolescents, or during pregnancy, all of which especially warrant caution and careful discernment.
For evidence-based information on reducing the risk of cannabis use, click on the following link: Cannabis Use Guideline to Reduce Risk.
While Dronabinol (Marinol) and Nabilone (Cesamet) are synthetic forms of delta-9-THC, both have different molecular formulas (see names text box), resulting in diverse adverse effects potential.
In this systematic review and meta-analyses of clinical trials (2022), Dronabinol presented 111 "diverse but not severe" adverse effects, while Nabilone presented 40.
In addition, when THC binds with CB1 and CB2, it also co-activates, either in part or significantly, a diverse group of receptor sites (incomplete list), enzymes, neurotransmitters, hormones, and other signaling pathways:
Ki legend:
(The reader is reminded that a smaller Ki is associated with the most potent effects.)
Disclaimers: Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a health problem or disease. If using a product, you should read carefully all product packaging. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.
Information on this site is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.