There is a divide among many people on whether medical marijuana should truly be sold on the open market. Some reasons why that is the effects of the 120-plus cannabinoids present in marijuana are mainly unknown although the one potent psychoactive agent known to date is THC.
Effect of THC
When an individual smokes marijuana, THC is absorbed ratherquickly into the bloodstream, and reaches the brain within minutes. The body absorption of THC much slower when it is eaten, and this delays the beginning of actions for almost up to two hours and also prolongs the length of the effect.
Brain areas affected
These neurotransmitters affect brain areas that are involved in memory, concentration, thinking, movement, sensory, coordination and time perception, as well as pleasure. The receptors that respond to these cannabinoids also react to THC, which also can disrupt and alter normal brain function. Studies show that THC can affect areas of the brain that control memory creation and attention. It can also disturb other parts of the brain, adversely affecting balance, reaction time and coordination. This can make it unsafe to be used while driving a car, operate heavy machinery or engagein sports or other possibly dangerous activities.
Stimulates
THC also stimulates some specific cannabinoid receptors that increase releasing of dopamine, a neurotransmitter related to feelings of pleasure. People use marijuana to achieve a feeling of elation (a high), giddiness and relaxation. Marijuana also produces changes in sensory perception, colors might seem brighter, and emotions more profound. Some experience feelings of paranoia. When people use cannabis for recreational purposes, they can experience some of the following effects:
- Changes in perception, and distorts illusion of space and time
- Changes in moods, leads to euphoria, feeling of energy, or a state of relaxation
- Heart rate is higher
- Blood pressure is reduced
- Impairs memory and concentration
- Reduction in psychomotor coordination
- Nausea, but some cannabinoids may help reduce nausea
- Increase appetite
These are effects that some people believe makes marijuana unsuited for medical uses.
