Route of Administration
The path by which a drug is delivered to the body. For cannabis: inhalation (smoking, vaporizing), oral (edibles, capsules), sublingual, topical, and transdermal.
In Depth
Route of administration profoundly affects cannabinoid pharmacokinetics and clinical effects. Inhalation: fastest onset (1–3 min), peak 15–30 min, duration 2–3 hours, bioavailability 11–45%. Oral: slowest onset (30–120 min), peak 2–4 hours, duration 4–8 hours, bioavailability 6–20%. Sublingual: intermediate onset (15–45 min), partially bypasses first-pass metabolism. Topical: local effects only, minimal systemic absorption. Transdermal patches: slow, sustained delivery, low bioavailability without permeation enhancers.
Related Terms
More in Chemistry
Decarboxylation
The chemical process by which a carboxyl group (COOH) is removed from a molecule, releasing CO₂. Converts inactive cannabinoid acids (THCA, CBDA) into their active forms (THC, CBD).
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
The acidic, non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw, unheated cannabis. Converted to THC through decarboxylation.
CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)
The acidic precursor to CBD found in raw cannabis. Converted to CBD through decarboxylation.
Lipophilicity
The tendency of a molecule to dissolve in fats, oils, and non-polar solvents rather than water. Cannabinoids are highly lipophilic.
Myrcene
The most abundant terpene in most cannabis strains. Produces an earthy, musky aroma. Proposed to enhance cannabinoid absorption and contribute to sedating effects.