For many, marijuana is seen as a horrible narcotic that causes many physical and social problems. For others it is a harmless drug that gives the body a relaxing sensation. Marijuana can be found on many college campuses and high schools. It is estimated that at least 70 million Americans have tried it and of these, 10-14% have become addicted (1). Marijuana is often called the "gateway" drug, leading users to more serious narcotics. Marijuana users experience different sensations, from excessive softness, to fuzzy memory, to the munchies. Some of the typical effects are memory impairment, impaired memory, motor coordination, posture, cognition and sensory perception. So, what is it about marijuana that makes users want more? The active ingredient in marijuana is delta-9-trans-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. The structure of THC is very similar to endogenous cannabinoids, or endocannabinoids for short, which are chemicals found naturally in the body (1). THC binds to endocannabinoid receptors and activates neurons, resulting in the different sensations experienced during a high. These receptors are scattered throughout the brain. THC affects the central nervous system, as well as peripheral tissue systems. THC can reduce pain, lower body temperature, and increase appetite. It can also be used as an anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, and anticonvulsant, which is why THC is used for medicinal purposes. THC is used as a popular treatment for glaucoma by reducing eye pressure and for neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and spinal cord injuries (4). THC acts on endocannabinoid receptors. Two known endocannabinoids...... middle of paper...... is the "munchies" a physiological effect of marijuana use, or simply a psychological effect? While I haven't heard back, I think it might be related to THC. This question may require further research in the future. References 1) Carrol, Linda, Marijuana Effects: More Than Just Munchies, New York Times, January 29, 2002 2) endogenous signaling system: chemistry, biochemistry and physiology, from the Internet Journal of Science - Biological Chemistry http://serendip. brynmawr.edu/bb/neuro/neuro02/web2/www.netsci-journal.com/97v1/970073) Hooked on Hash, from New Scientist, 2000 http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/bb/neuro/neuro02/web2 /www.netscientist.com/hottopics/marijuana/junkymonkeys.jsp4) The pharmacology and biochemistry of cannabinoid receptors, May 1997http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/bb/neuro/neuro02/web2/www.nottingham.ca. uk/~mqzwww/cannabinoids/htm