Technical terms
In this guide
In this guideThis is a paper for discussion. This does not represent the views of the Committee and should not be cited.
Term |
Definition |
Anxiogenic effects |
Physiological or psychological responses that provoke or exacerbate anxiety. These effects may be induced by certain drugs, stressors, or neurochemical imbalances, particularly involving the serotonergic or noradrenergic systems. |
Bradypnea |
A clinical term for abnormally slow respiratory rate, typically fewer than 12 breaths per minute in adults. |
Cannabinol |
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid found in aged cannabis, formed through the oxidation of THC. Cannabinol is a Class B drug under Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the MDA 197. |
Dyspnoea |
A subjective experience of breathing discomfort, often described as shortness of breath. It can result from respiratory, cardiac, or metabolic. |
Glasgow Coma scale |
A standardized neurological scale used to assess consciousness in trauma or critical care settings. It scores eye opening, verbal response, and motor response, with a total score ranging from 3 (deep coma) to 15 (fully alert). |
Glucuronidation |
A phase II metabolic process in the liver where glucuronic acid is conjugated to drugs or endogenous compounds, increasing their solubility and facilitating renal or biliary excretion. It’s a key detoxification pathway. |
GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) |
GRAS is an FDA designation for substances added to food that are considered safe by qualified experts, based on scientific evidence or a history of safe use, and therefore do not require formal FDA approval. |
Pallor |
A noticeable paleness of the skin and mucous membranes, often due to reduced blood flow or haemoglobin levels. |
Psychotropic |
Refers to any substance that affects brain function, altering mood, perception, cognition, or behaviour. These include antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiolytics, and are commonly used in psychiatric treatment. |