Increased appetite is a side effect associated with which substance?

Increased appetite is most commonly associated with marijuana. This effect is often referred to as "the munchies," where individuals experience a heightened desire to eat after consuming the substance. Research indicates that compounds in marijuana, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a significant role in regulating food intake and appetite. This interaction can lead to an increase in hunger signals, prompting users to seek food more enthusiastically.

While alcohol and certain depressants can also influence appetite and eating habits, they do not typically cause the same pronounced increase in appetite as marijuana does. Caffeine, on the other hand, is primarily a stimulant and is usually associated with a decrease in appetite rather than an increase.