Neurotransmitters & Weed: Why You Feel That Way

When you consume cannabis, it’s not just your imagination—your brain is genuinely reacting, and it all happens thanks to your neurotransmitters. These tiny chemical messengers control your mood, memory, perception, and much more. Let’s explore how weed interacts with them—and why you experience certain effects.

What Are Neurotransmitters?

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers your brain uses to transmit signals between neurons. Each neurotransmitter has a specific function—some help you relax, others help you focus or feel pleasure.

The Endocannabinoid System in Action

Cannabis mainly acts on your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network in your body that regulates functions like pain, mood, appetite, and sleep. This system uses its own neurotransmitters called endocannabinoids, but the cannabinoids in weed (like THC and CBD) attach themselves and alter how it works.

Key Neurotransmitters Involved

Dopamine
THC can stimulate the release of dopamine, the reward neurotransmitter. The result: you feel good, relaxed, sometimes euphoric. This creates feelings of pleasure or high.

GABA
Cannabis can increase the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that slows down neural excitement. Effect: calmness, anxiety reduction, sometimes sleepiness.

Glutamate
THC can reduce glutamate activity, an excitatory neurotransmitter. This may explain the slowed perception or temporary memory lapses after smoking.

Serotonin
Involved in mood regulation, serotonin is also affected by cannabis. This can explain some antidepressant effects or, conversely, feelings of confusion or anxiety depending on the person.

Why Do Effects Vary from Person to Person?

Because everyone’s brain chemistry is different. Your neurotransmitter levels, genetics, metabolism, mood when consuming, and even what you ate before can influence your experience.

And What About CBD?

CBD, unlike THC, is not psychoactive. It works indirectly on neurotransmitters and can modulate THC’s effects: reducing anxiety, calming paranoia, promoting a more stable sense of well-being. It is also studied for its effects on serotonin (anxiolytic effects) and GABA.

Conclusion

Cannabis effects don’t come from nowhere. They result from specific interactions between cannabinoids and your neurotransmitters. Understanding these mechanisms helps you better grasp what you feel—and maybe consume more consciously.