Tetrahydrocannabinol

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. THC is the most active of the principal constituents, as well as the major metabolite, of cannabinoids such as cannabis and hashish. Marijuana (cannabis) is sometimes used to treat individuals suffering from anorexia. Cannabinoids are usually smoked or administered orally, laced with some other drugs of abuse like cocaine. Higher doses used by abusers produce CNS effects, such as altered mood and sensory perceptions, loss of coordination, impaired short term memory, anxiety, paranoia and an increased heart rate. THC and its glucoronide are the primary urinary metabolites of cannabinoids. This means that the presence of THC in urine indicates the use of marijuana, cannabis and/or hashish. The half - life of THC is about 20 hours to 10 days, depending on the amount and potency of the drug used. This test detects the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in urine specimen, qualitatively.