Understanding the Science Behind Medicinal Cannabis Ingestion Methods.

Medicinal cannabis in Australia is regulated under strict guidelines by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which approves specific ingestion methods based on scientific principles. Here, we explore the science behind each approved method, elucidating how they deliver cannabinoids into the body.

1. Oral Administration:

Capsules and Oils When cannabis is ingested orally via capsules or oils, it passes through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream. The active compounds, primarily cannabinoids, are first metabolized by the liver where they undergo a transformation known as the “first-pass effect” During this process, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that is more potent than THC itself. This metabolic pathway affects the timing and intensity of the pharmacological effects.

2. Sublingual Administration:

Sprays and Dissolvable Strips Sublingual administration involves placing cannabis oil or dissolvable strips under the tongue. The active compounds are absorbed directly into the blood through the sublingual artery. This method bypasses the liver, avoiding the first-pass metabolism, which allows for more rapid and direct absorption into the bloodstream. This route provides a faster onset of action as the cannabinoids enter the circulation without being altered by liver enzymes.

3. Inhalation:

Vaporizers Inhalation of cannabis through vaporizers involves heating the plant material to a temperature that vaporizes, but does not burn it. The cannabinoids and terpenes are released as vapor, which is then inhaled into the lungs. The large surface area of the lung’s alveoli allows cannabinoids to be rapidly absorbed into the pulmonary circulation, reaching the brain within seconds. This method avoids the first-pass metabolism entirely, resulting in a quick onset of effects and high bioavailability.

4. Topical Application:

Creams and Balms Topicals applied to the skin interact with cannabinoid receptors located in the skin’s epidermal and dermal layers. The cannabinoids do not typically penetrate deeply enough to enter the bloodstream, which means they do not produce systemic effects or psychoactivity. Instead, they affect local cannabinoid receptors, which can influence local pain and inflammatory responses. The mechanism is primarily based on the interaction of cannabinoids with the body's peripheral nervous system.

Conclusion:

Each ingestion method involves distinct pathways by which cannabinoids are absorbed and processed within the body. Understanding these scientific mechanisms helps clarify how different methods might be utilized depending on the patient’s medical needs and the desired timing and duration of effects. Further details on each method will be explored in upcoming posts to enhance understanding of their applications in medical treatment.