Dopaminergic system does not play a major role in the precipitated cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome.
Abstract
AIM:
To determine the dopaminergic system involvement in precipitated cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome.
METHODS:
The dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH23390 or the dopamine D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride was administered to rats chronically treated with either delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or vehicle. Subjects were then injected with either SR141716A or vehicle and behavior was observed for 1 h.
RESULTS:
Administration of the cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716A to animals chronically treated with THC as described by Tsou et al (1995) produced a profound withdrawal syndrome. Treatment with dopamine antagonists did not attenuate cannabinoid precipitated withdrawal syndrome in THC tolerant animals while the agonists increased the syndrome.
CONCLUSION:
It is unlikely that the dopaminergic system plays a major role in mediating the behavioral aspects of the cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome.
Keywords:
To determine the dopaminergic system involvement in precipitated cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome.
METHODS:
The dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH23390 or the dopamine D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride was administered to rats chronically treated with either delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or vehicle. Subjects were then injected with either SR141716A or vehicle and behavior was observed for 1 h.
RESULTS:
Administration of the cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716A to animals chronically treated with THC as described by Tsou et al (1995) produced a profound withdrawal syndrome. Treatment with dopamine antagonists did not attenuate cannabinoid precipitated withdrawal syndrome in THC tolerant animals while the agonists increased the syndrome.
CONCLUSION:
It is unlikely that the dopaminergic system plays a major role in mediating the behavioral aspects of the cannabinoid withdrawal syndrome.