Motivational Effects of Cannabinoids Interaction of the cannabinoid and opioid systems in the modulation of nociception
by
Welch SP.
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology,
Virginia Commonwealth University,
Richmond, Virginia 23298-0524, USA.
swelch@vcu.edu
J NInt Rev Psychiatry. 2009 Apr;21(2):143-51.

ABSTRACT

Cannabinoids and opioids produce antinociceptive synergy. Cannabinoids such as Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) release endogenous opioids and endocannabinoids such as anandamide (AEA) also alter endogenous opioid tone. Opioids and cannabinoids bind distinct receptors that co-localize in areas of the brain involved with the processing of pain signals. Therefore, it is logical to look at interactions of these two systems in the modulation of both acute and chronic pain. These drugs are often co-abused. In addition, the lack of continued effectiveness of opioids due to tolerance development limits the use of such drugs. The cost to society and patients in terms of dollars, loss of productivity, as well as quality of life, is staggering. This review summarizes the data indicating that with cannabinoid/opioid therapy one may be able to produce long-term antinociceptive effects at doses devoid of substantial side effects, while preventing the neuronal biochemical changes that accompany tolerance. The clinical utility of modulators of the endocannabinoid system as a potential mimic for THC-like drugs in analgesia and tolerance-sparing effects of opioids is a critical future direction also addressed in the review.

Mu
Pain
Opium timeline
Opioid receptors
NMDA anatagonists
Adjuvant analgesics
The Pleasures of Opium
Opioids and anaesthesia
Opioids, dopamine and alcohol
The molecular face of hedonism?
Synergism between cannabinoid and opioid analgesics

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