CANNABIS

CANNABIS

Introduction:

• Derived from Cannabis sativa.
• Most commonly used illegal drug.
• Active ingredient – δ-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
• Can be ingested orally/more commonly smoked.
• No significant withdrawal symptoms.

Cannabis intoxication:

Characterized by.

• Euphoria.
• Subjective sense of slowing of time
• Sense of floating in air.
• Reddening of conjunctiva (due to dilatation of conjunctival blood vessels).
• Increased appetite.
• Dryness of mouth.
• “Bad trip” – Restless, fearful, extremely anxious (similar to panic attack).

Other symptoms: 

• Depersonalization
• Derealization
• Synesthesia (cross-over of sensory perceptions).

Cannabis-related disorders:

• Cannabis-induced psychotic disorder (hemp insanity):
  • Psychotic symptoms (Delusions & hallucinations).
• Cannabis-induced anxiety disorders.

Flash-back phenomenon: 

• Characterized by recurrence of cannabis use experience in absence of current cannabis use.

Running amok: 

• Described as rage development (may hurt or even kill others)in an indiscriminate fashion.

Amotivational syndrome: 

• Characterized by an unwillingness to persist in any task (at school/work) & uninterested, lethargic & pathetic.

Treatment:

• No withdrawal symptoms – No treatment mostly required.
• Short-term treatment – Benzodiazepines.
• Long-term treatment – Psychotherapeutic approach (cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy or group therapies).

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