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Cannabinoids in palliative medicine
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Abstract
Currently there is a heightened interest in the analgesic potential of cannabinoid receptor agonists such as tetrahydrocannabinol (D-9-THC) and synthetic agonists. There is a need for an improved understanding of the sites of cannabinoid receptors and mechanisms by which cannabinoids affect central and peripheral nervous system. Apart from analgesia, cannabinoids may find a place for example in the treatment of anorexia-cachexia, spasticity, dyspnea, or glaucoma. Presently, concerns about the quality, efficacy and safety of cannabinoids prevent clinical use. It is anticipated that developments in pharmaceutical agents and formulations should overcome these clinical difficulties.
Abstract
Currently there is a heightened interest in the analgesic potential of cannabinoid receptor agonists such as tetrahydrocannabinol (D-9-THC) and synthetic agonists. There is a need for an improved understanding of the sites of cannabinoid receptors and mechanisms by which cannabinoids affect central and peripheral nervous system. Apart from analgesia, cannabinoids may find a place for example in the treatment of anorexia-cachexia, spasticity, dyspnea, or glaucoma. Presently, concerns about the quality, efficacy and safety of cannabinoids prevent clinical use. It is anticipated that developments in pharmaceutical agents and formulations should overcome these clinical difficulties.
Keywords
cannabinoids; CB1 receptor; CB2 receptor; analgesia; immunomodulation
About this articleTitle
Cannabinoids in palliative medicine
Journal
Advances in Palliative Medicine
Issue
Vol 2, No 2 (2003): Polish Palliative Medicine
Pages
123-131
Published online
2003-02-05
Page views
669
Article views/downloads
6813
Bibliographic record
Advances in Palliative Medicine 2003;2(2):123-131.
Keywords
cannabinoids
CB1 receptor
CB2 receptor
analgesia
immunomodulation
Authors
Małgorzata Krajnik
Zbigniew Żylicz