Chemistry and Pharmacology of Cannabis

Catalog description

Cannabis sativa is a psychoactive plant used for medical or recreational purposes. Its primary psychoactive component, THC, is one of the >400 known compounds, including at least 65 cannabinoids. CBD, the other major compound, is currently studied for its potential in a variety of medical disorders (e.g., treatment of anxiety, seizure, loss of appetite, chronic pain, etc.). In this course, we will learn past and current uses of cannabis in different cultures. We will become familiar with the chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, mode of action and safety of cannabis. Furthermore, we will review the biosynthesis and distribution of plant secondary metabolites, the techniques used in their isolation and structure elucidation, the value of biological assays, and the steps involved in drug production and approval.