"When
THC enters the blood stream and reaches the brain, it binds to
cannabinoid receptors. The
endogenous ligand of these receptors is
anandamide, the effects of which THC emulates. This
agonism of the cannabinoid receptors results in changes in the levels of various neurotransmitters, especially
dopamine and
norepinephrine; neurotransmitters which are closely associated with the acute effects of cannabis ingestion, such as
euphoria and
anxiety. Some effects may include a general
alteration of conscious perception,
euphoria, feelings of well-being, relaxation or stress reduction, increased appreciation of humor, music (especially discerning its various components/instruments) or the arts, joviality,
metacognition and
introspection, enhanced recollection (
episodic memory), increased sensuality, increased awareness of sensation, increased
libido,
[35] and creativity. Abstract or philosophical thinking, disruption of linear memory and
paranoia or
anxiety are also typical.
Anxiety is the most commonly reported side effect of smoking marijuana. Between 20 and 30 percent of recreational users experience intense anxiety and/or
panic attacks after smoking cannabis, however, some report anxiety only after not smoking cannabis for a prolonged period of time."
