Leading physicians and scientists from around the world critically examine the pharmacological and molecular basis of the therapeutic properties of marihuana and its active ingredient, THC. They detail the broad array of marihuana's effects on brain function, the immune system, male and female reproductive functions, and cardiac and pulmonary functions, as well as evaluate its clinical applications in psychiatry, glaucoma, pain management, cancer chemotherapy, and AIDS treatment. Their studies indicate that marihuana persistently impairs the brain and reproductive function, and that marihuana smoke is more toxic and damaging to the lung than tobacco smoke. Marihuana and Medicine's reports of the latest findings on the pharmacological and molecular mechanisms of marihuana and of its clinical manifestations will be essential reading for physicians, psychiatrists, pharmacologists, health-care professionals, policy makers, public health officials, and attorneys.

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Introduction: Marihuana and Medicine-A Historical Review.- I. Chemistry and Pharmacokinetics.- II. Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanisms.- III. Pharmacology and Physiopathology.- IV. Marihuana and Reproductive Function.- V. Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Pain.- VI. Marihuana and Glaucoma.- VII. Marihuana, Cannabinoids, and the Nervous System.- VIII. Marihuana and Psychiatry.- IX. Marihuana and Aids Management.- X. Marihuana and Medicine, Public Health, and Public Policy.- XI. General Conclusions.