January 2020

Endocannabinoids are ester, ether, and amide derivatives of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Arachidonic acid is an example of a polyunsaturated fatty acid in endocannabinoids.

The results of “The Effects of Chronic Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) use on Cerebral Glucose Metabolism in Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Study” published in 2019 in ‘Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism’ indicate that “Compared to non-users, THC-users had hypermetabolism of three regions (p < 0.039, d >1.17) in left temporal areas, while CBD-users had hypometabolism of five regions (p < 0.032, d > 1.31) in left temporal areas.”

False. The results of the survey indicate that 42.9% of consumers were not able to accurately report that FDA‐approved prescription drugs may cause harm.

Actually, no. The language, including the risk or benefit statements, used in “direct to consumer” ads is not FDA-approved.

Yes. According to a study by Hartman in 2015, alcohol may increase THC levels.

False. According to a survey published in December 2019 in Pharmacoepidemiology & Drug Safety, only about one quarter (25.1%) of Americans understand that a new drug approved by the FDA does not necessarily mean the drug will help most people who use it. Of note, the same survey found that 17.5% of the 1,744 US adults questioned thought that an FDA-approved drug will CURE the condition for which it’s prescribed.

Sentences for drug trafficking can range from 3-5 years to life in prison, but can be substantially higher when larger quantities are involved. Also, this federal crime may be associated with a $250,000 fine for the first offense.

The results of a single dose study, (randomized and double blind) , which involved 13 healthy females and 15 healthy males suggest that females have a significantly greater peak plasma concentration (Cmax) compared with males after 5 mg THC in a fasted state.

Yes. The expression of CB1 and CB2 receptors is up-regulated during the progression of liver disease. For example, cannabinoid receptor expression is increased on myofibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells in individuals with liver disease. Thus, patients with liver disease may have a different reaction to cannabinoid based products than patients with a healthier liver.

Phase I of the metabolism of THC by the liver involves CYP 2C9/2C19/3A4. Phase I produces 11-OH-THC, 11-COOH-THC and other compounds. Phase II involves glucouronidation to produce 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC Glucouronide and 8b,11-di-OH-THC Glucouronide. These compounds are excreted in the urine and feces.