Citation

Salhab A. J. Subst. Use 2017; 22(2): 236-239.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa Healthcare)

DOI

10.3109/14659891.2016.1149237

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaease), currently, is the most widely used illicit drug around the world. The psychoactive chemical of the plant is the (9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The federal government of the United States as well as other countries classified THC as Schedule I controlled substance. Concerning the use of cannabinoids as therapeutic agents exhibits beneficial therapeutic effects against nausea and vomiting in cancer and AIDS patients. Cannabis decreased the intensity of spasm and tremors in multiple sclerotic patients. On the other hand, the chronic use of Cannabis sativa may cause severe, unwanted, acute, and chronic side effects: cognition, coordination, learning defects, and impairment of memory among users, addiction, and possible suicidal attempts. Still, cannabis may trigger acute cardiovascular diseases including mortality, although there is some progress by introducing new agents that work like THC such as Sativex, Nabilone, and Conador. These agents await further extensive development to enhance efficacy and to decrease toxicity. In conclusion, the outcome of the medical use of cannabis is blurred with the presence of the recreational use. The question of whether it should be legalized still needs extensive discussion.

Keywords: Cannabis impaired driving

Language: en

Keywords

Addiction; adverse effects; cannabis sativa; sativex