Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Total Cannabinoids

Q: What is the best way to start using cannabinoids?

It's recommended to start with low doses and gradually increase while monitoring for side effects.

Q: Are cannabinoids safe for long-term use?

Short-term use is generally safe; however, the long-term safety profile is still uncertain.

Q: When should I take cannabinoids for best results?

Timing can affect efficacy; it's important to find a schedule that aligns with your symptoms and lifestyle.

Q: How long will it take to see benefits?

Benefits may take several weeks to manifest, depending on individual response and condition treated.

Q: Can cannabinoids cure conditions?

Cannabinoids are not a cure-all; efficacy varies widely by condition and individual factors.

Also known as: Cannabis, Cannabinoids, THC, CBD, Tetrahydrocannabinol, Cannabidiol, Total Cannabinoids

Overview

Total Cannabinoids refer to a collective group of more than 100 compounds derived from the cannabis plant, primarily including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds are known for their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing symptoms such as chronic pain, nausea, and spasticity. The cannabinoids exert their effects through interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes in the body. Their usage has been explored across a plethora of conditions, with varying evidence quality but significant ongoing research. Cannabinoids can be administered in various forms, including oils, edibles, and inhalants, which can affect their bioavailability and efficacy.

Benefits

Total Cannabinoids are supported by moderate-quality evidence demonstrating benefits in several areas: chronic pain management shows a weighted mean difference of -0.46 on a 0-10 pain scale, indicating notable reduction. They have been found effective in alleviating nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy with an odds ratio of 3.82. Additionally, cannabinoids exhibit limited efficacy for spasticity in multiple sclerosis at a standardized mean difference of -0.25. They support appetite stimulation, particularly in patients with HIV/AIDS, contributing to weight gain. Overall, patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced nausea, chronic pain, or HIV-related weight loss may derive the most significant benefits, typically observable within several weeks post-initiation of treatment.

How it works

Total Cannabinoids primarily exert their effects by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This interaction modifies pathways related to pain modulation, mood regulation, and appetite stimulation. Specifically, cannabinoids can influence neurotransmitter release and neural signaling within the nervous system, gastrointestinal system, and immune response, resulting in the diverse range of physiological responses. Absorption and bioavailability differ significantly based on the method of consumption, with inhalation and sublingual methods generally offering greater bioavailability than oral consumption.

Side effects

Total Cannabinoids are generally considered safe for short-term use; however, some side effects are common. Dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, fatigue, and somnolence occur in more than 5% of users. Less frequent effects (1-5%) include euphoria, vomiting, disorientation, drowsiness, and confusion, while rare effects (<1%) may comprise hallucinations and loss of balance. Potential drug interactions should be noted, particularly with sedatives, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Certain contraindications apply, such as in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and specific psychiatric disorders. Care is advised in populations such as children, the elderly, and those with cardiovascular issues, due to heightened sensitivity and possible adverse reactions.

Dosage

Dosage of Total Cannabinoids varies based on the condition being treated. Generally, a minimum effective dose begins around 2.5 mg of THC, with adjustments made based on individual response and tolerance. The optimal dosage range is not definitively established, but caution is recommended for dosages exceeding 50 mg of THC per day. The timing of dosage can significantly influence efficacy and side effects, suggesting a tailored approach to administration. Various forms (oral, inhaled, topical) are available, each with distinct absorption characteristics. Bioavailability also fluctuates significantly with the chosen method of administration, stressing the need for individualized dosing strategies.

FAQs

What is the best way to start using cannabinoids?

It's recommended to start with low doses and gradually increase while monitoring for side effects.

Are cannabinoids safe for long-term use?

Short-term use is generally safe; however, the long-term safety profile is still uncertain.

When should I take cannabinoids for best results?

Timing can affect efficacy; it's important to find a schedule that aligns with your symptoms and lifestyle.

How long will it take to see benefits?

Benefits may take several weeks to manifest, depending on individual response and condition treated.

Can cannabinoids cure conditions?

Cannabinoids are not a cure-all; efficacy varies widely by condition and individual factors.

Research Sources

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2338251 – Whiting et al. (2015) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on cannabinoids, ascertaining moderate-quality evidence for their effectiveness in chronic pain and spasticity, while indicating low-quality evidence for nausea and vomiting.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26103030/ – Rog et al. (2018) performed a meta-analysis involving MS patients, revealing limited efficacy of cannabinoids for spasticity and pain, alongside a noted increase in adverse events.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2706499 – Smith et al. (2018) reviewed the role of cannabinoids in palliative care, highlighting their benefits in promoting weight gain in HIV patients but mixed results for other symptoms.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/07439156231189181?icid=int.sj-full-text.similar-articles.7 – A systematic review indicated the potential of cannabinoids for various psychological and physical health issues, thereby reinforcing their therapeutic applications across different conditions.
https://www.med.upenn.edu/cbti/assets/user-content/documents/Systematic%20review%20and%20meta-analysis%20of%20cannabinoids.pdf – This comprehensive systematic review highlighted the effectiveness and safety of cannabinoids, addressing efficacy across various clinical scenarios and underscoring the importance of ongoing research.