What it means
The psychoactive substance in marijuana. It acts on cannabinoid receptors in the brain, causing relaxation, changes in perception and appetite, and slowed reaction time; high doses can cause anxiety, paranoia, a fast heart rate and, with long heavy use, repeated vomiting (cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome). A man-made form, dronabinoldroh-NAB-ih-nolA man-made form of THC taken by mouth to ease nausea from chemotherapy and to boost appetite in AIDS-related weight loss.Full entry , is a prescription drug for nausea and appetite loss.
For the nurse
Ask about cannabis use without judgment, including edibles and vaping. THC can stay in a urine drug screen for days to weeks after use.
At a glance
| Also written | tetrahydrocannabinol |
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Related terms
cannabidiol
A compound from the cannabis plant that does not cause a high, sold as a prescription seizure drug and in many products.
dronabinol
A man-made form of THC taken by mouth to ease nausea from chemotherapy and to boost appetite in AIDS-related weight loss.
toxicology screen
A urine or blood test that checks for drugs, alcohol or poisons in the body.