Cannabinoid
THC
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
C₂₁H₃₀O₂
314.46 g/mol Intoxicating
Typical abundancemajor
Receptor targets
CB1 · CB2 (partial agonist)
Mechanism of action
Binds CB1 receptors throughout the central nervous system, mimicking the endocannabinoid anandamide to alter neurotransmitter release. It is the principal source of cannabis's intoxicating effects.
Reported effects
Common terpenes
Research
Extensively studied; the basis of prescription cannabinoids dronabinol (synthetic THC) and nabilone.