The neurobiology of cannabinoid dependence: sex differences and potential interactions between cannabinoid and opioid systems
by
Ambrosio E, Martin S, Garcia-Lecumberri C, Crespo JA
Departamento de Psicobiologia,
Facultad de Psicologia,
Universidad Nacional de Educacion a Distancia,
Madrid, Spain.
eambros@cu.uned.es
Life Sci 1999; 65(6-7):687-94

ABSTRACT

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in many western countries. Its psychoactive ingredient, delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), produces a variety of effects in animals and humans that are probably mediated by specific cannabinoid receptors in the brain and interactions with several neurotransmitter and neuromodulator systems. For instance, recent research has revealed an important mutual functional relationship between cannabinoids and endogenous opioid systems in mediating the pharmacological and behavioral actions produced by these agents, including their reinforcing effects. Perinatal exposure to and interactions between cannabinoids and opioids might also have long-term behavioral consequences lasting into adulthood. In this work, we present preliminary evidence examining the potential effects of maternal exposure to THC on the motivational properties of morphine in male and female adult rats, as measured by an intravenous opiate self-administration paradigm.

THC
Opioids
Reward
Dopamine
Pain-relief
Cannabinoids
Pharmacokinetics
The pregnant smoker
Cannabis, opioids and pain
Cannabis, heroin and the mu1 receptor

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