From the Guidelines
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, whereas cannabis refers to the plant itself, which contains over 100 different cannabinoids, including THC and cannabidiol (CBD) 1. The distinction between THC and cannabis is crucial for both medical and recreational users to make informed decisions about cannabis use. THC is specifically responsible for the "high" or intoxicating effects that cannabis users experience, as it binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, affecting areas that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, and sensory and time perception 1.
Key Differences
- THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for its intoxicating effects 1
- Cannabis, on the other hand, is the plant itself, which contains a wide range of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD 1
- CBD is a non-psychoactive compound with potential therapeutic effects, such as anxiety and seizure management 1
- Medical cannabis products are often classified by their THC content, with some having high THC for pain relief and appetite stimulation, while others emphasize CBD content for anxiety or seizure management 1
Therapeutic Use
The therapeutic use of cannabis and cannabinoids has been approved by the FDA for certain conditions, such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis 1. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of cannabis in treating chronic pain is still limited and inconclusive 1.
Important Considerations
When consuming cannabis, it is essential to consider the varying levels of THC and CBD, depending on the strain and preparation method 1. Additionally, the potential for drug-drug interactions and the risk of misuse and dependence should not be overlooked 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Dronabinol, the active ingredient in dronabinol capsules, USP, is synthetic delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC). Chemically, nabilone is similar to the active ingredient found in naturally occurring Cannabis sativa L. [Marijuana; delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC)].
The main difference between Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabis is that:
- THC is a specific cannabinoid compound found in cannabis, referred to as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC) 2.
- Cannabis, on the other hand, refers to the entire plant, Cannabis sativa L., which contains THC as one of its active ingredients 3. Key points:
- THC is a component of cannabis
- Cannabis is the plant that contains THC, among other compounds Based on the information provided, it appears that THC is a specific compound within the cannabis plant, rather than being synonymous with cannabis itself 2, 3.
From the Research
Definition of THC and Cannabis
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active component of marijuana, also known as delta(Δ)9-tetrahydrocannabinol 4.
- Cannabis, also known as marijuana, contains nearly 500 components, including the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) 5.
Difference between THC and Cannabis
- THC is a specific compound found in cannabis, while cannabis is the plant itself, which contains THC and other compounds 4, 5.
- Cannabis-based medications, such as dronabinol, contain THC as the active ingredient, and are used for medical purposes, including the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting 4, 6.
Effects of THC and Cannabis
- THC has been shown to have similar or improved efficacy compared with conventional antiemetics for the resolution of nausea and/or vomiting in patients with cancer 4.
- Cannabis-based medications, including THC, have been associated with a higher incidence of adverse effects, such as dizziness, hypotension, and dysphoria or depression, compared with conventional antiemetic therapy or placebo 7.
- THC has a slower time to peak plasma concentrations and a lower systemic availability compared with intravenous or smoked THC 4.
Medical Uses of THC and Cannabis
- THC and cannabis-based medications have been approved for medical purposes, including the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting 7, 5.
- Dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC, is an orally active cannabinoid that has been shown to be effective in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting 6.
- Nabilone, a synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist, has been shown to be effective in the prophylaxis and treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting 5.