Intravenous Injection in Man of Δ ⁹ -Tetrahydrocannabinol and 11-OH-Δ ⁹ -Tetrahydrocannabinol

Abstract

A microsuspension of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol and of its metabolic derivative 11-OH-Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol has been prepared with 25 percent human serum albumin as the vehicle. Intravenous infusion of this preparation to humans indicates that both tetrahydrocannabinols are equally potent in producing the typical marihuana-like pschological and physiological effects.

Marijuana Smoking: Factors That Influence the Bioavailability of Tetrahydrocannabinol

“…The presence of THC in saliva after marijuana smoking is not due to its secretion by the salivary glands. This is demonstrated by the results of experiments in which we administered radioactively labeled THC orally 1972;PerezReyes et al 1973). In these experiments we collected timed saliva samples after drug administration.…”

Comparison of Cannabinoid Concentrations in Plasma, Oral Fluid and Urine in Occasional Cannabis Smokers After Smoking Cannabis Cigarette

“…THC is mainly metabolized in the liver, by cytochrome P450 enzymes such as CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP3A [6,7] which, in turn, is rapidly oxidized to an active metabolite, 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC) and further to THC-COOH [8]. ________________________________________ The primary metabolite 11-OH-THC is at least as potent as THC, has a similar pharmacokinetic profile, and probably contributes significantly to the effects observed after THC administration whereas THC-COOH is an inactive metabolite [4,9].…”

Comparative Pharmacology of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and its Metabolite, 11-OH-Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol

“…Gaoni and Mechoulam (1) have shown that the major pharmacologically active principle of this plant is 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Y-THC).' Recent clinical studReceived for publication 18 Septcinber 1972 and in revised form 23 March 1973. 1Abbreviations used in this papcr: THC, tetralhydrocannabinol.…”