The gastrointestinal pharmacology of cannabinoids

Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2001 Dec;1(6):597-603. doi: 10.1016/s1471-4892(01)00102-3.

Abstract

The digestive tract contains endogenous cannabinoids (anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol) and cannabinoid CB1 receptors can be found on myenteric and submucosal nerves. Activation of CB1 receptors inhibits gastrointestinal motility, intestinal secretion and gastric acid secretion. The enteric location of CB1 receptors could provide new strategies for the management of gut disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arachidonic Acids / metabolism
  • Arachidonic Acids / physiology
  • Cannabinoids / metabolism*
  • Cannabinoids / therapeutic use
  • Digestive System / drug effects
  • Digestive System / metabolism*
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / drug therapy
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / metabolism*
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / physiopathology
  • Gastrointestinal Motility
  • Humans
  • Peptic Ulcer / drug therapy
  • Peptic Ulcer / metabolism
  • Polyunsaturated Alkamides
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid
  • Receptors, Drug / agonists
  • Receptors, Drug / metabolism*

Substances

  • Arachidonic Acids
  • Cannabinoids
  • Endocannabinoids
  • Polyunsaturated Alkamides
  • Receptors, Cannabinoid
  • Receptors, Drug
  • anandamide