S8. Cannabinoids
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are a compound contained in the marijuana plant and its products. The cannabinoid compound contains a substance called tetrahydrocannabinol which has psychoactive properties. Due to the fast absorption rate of tetrahydrocannabinol by the lungs, cannabinoids have a rapid onset, with the effect on the central nervous system being obvious within 20 minutes with duration lasting 4-6 hours. Cannabinoids can be detected in the urine of an occasional user for up to a week following use, and much longer for regular users.
Medical uses of cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are used rarely in medicine but where they are it is usually during palliative care (reducing symptoms rather than trying to treat or cure a condition) to reduce pain.
Effects on performance
Cannabinoids have no positive effects on performance and in fact can be detrimental. Prolonged use can cause ‘amotivational’ syndrome causing the user to loose focus and determination to succeed. It is their analgesic (pain relief) properties which make cannabinoids prohibited in-competition.
Side-effects of cannabinoids
The side-effects of cannabinoids are:
• impairment of psychomotor skills;
• altered perceptions;
• impaired concentration.
Substances and methods prohibited at all times
