Review

The good and the bad effects of (2 ) trans-delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC) on humans

E.A. Carlini*

Department of Psychobiology, Federal University of Sa?o Paulo, Paulista School of Medicine, Rua Botucatu,

862-18 andar—Ed. Cie?ncias Biome?dicas 04023-062-Sa?o Paulo-SP, Brazil

Available online 3 July 2004

Abstract

This review analyses the therapeutic usefulness of D9-tetrahydrocannabinol and its potential to induce adverse reactions on

humans. During the last 30 years an enormous amount of research was carried out resulting in the disclosure of the cannabinoid

system in Central Nervous System, with its CB1 and CB2 receptors, and the agonist anandamide. Under the clinical point of view,

D9-THC produces some therapeutic benefits which are beyond reasonable doubt. Thus, the effects on nausea/emesis due to cancer chemotherapy, as appetite promoter, on some painful conditions and on symptoms of multiple sclerosis are clearly demonstrated.

D9-THC is not devoid of ill effects. On the cognitive domain it impairs the human capacity to discriminate time intervals and space distances, vigilance, memory and the performance for mental work. On the psychic area D9-THC may induce unpleasant reactions such as disconnected thoughts, panic reactions, disturbing changes in perception, delusions and hallucinatory

experiences. However, the long term effects on the psyche and cognition are not known as there are no reports of prolonged use of

D9-THC. Actually, it has been proposed by WHO that D9-THC should be rescheduled to schedule IV of the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Drugs, as it does not constitute a substantial risk to public health and its abuse is rare if at all.1. 1400 – 1700 words
2. IEEE style format referencing
3. 7 peer reviewed (articles) references or more
4. Proper headings and sub-headings
5. Project must include three main bodies such as Introduction, Main body and Conclusion.