THC and Risk of Substance Abuse

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), is the active ingredient in Cannabinoids (marijuana). Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mix of dried, crumbled parts from the marijuana plant. Some states in the U.S have approved "medical marijuana" to ease symptoms of various health problems though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the marijuana plant as a medicine. Scientists are doing more research with marijuana and its ingredients to treat many diseases and conditions.

A genetic variation in fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), C385A (P129T), has been previously associated with risk for problem street drug use. FAAH is an enzyme that inactivates an endogenous cannabinoid receptor. A study¹ of adult Caucasians investigated whether this FAAH variant altered the risk for trying, regular use of or dependence on cannabis, alcohol or nicotine, traditional "gateway" drugs.

Related to:
THC, Cannabinoids, marijuana, FAAH