Opioid-sparing effects of cannabinoids on morphine analgesia: participation of CB₁ and CB₂ receptors.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Much of the opioid epidemic arose from abuse of prescription opioid drugs. This study sought to determine if the combination of a cannabinoid with an opioid could produce additive or synergistic effects on pain, allowing reduction in the opioid dose needed for maximal analgesia.

Experimental approach

Pain was assayed using the formalin test in mice and the carrageenan assay in rats. Morphine and two synthetic cannabinoids were tested: WIN55,212-2 (WIN), which binds to both CB₁ and CB₂ receptors, and possibly TRPV1 channels; and GP1a, which has activity at CB₂ receptors and is reported to inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase, thus raising levels of endogenous cannabinoids.

Key results

Morphine in combination with WI

SUBMITTER: Chen X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6692585 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature