List of cannabinoids
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Comprehensive List of Cannabinoids: Types and Therapeutic Potential
Introduction to Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are a diverse group of chemical compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body and brain, producing effects similar to those of the Cannabis plant. These compounds can be classified into three main categories: phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids3 9.
Phytocannabinoids: Natural Cannabinoids from Cannabis
Phytocannabinoids are naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant. The most well-known phytocannabinoids include:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): The primary psychoactive component of cannabis, known for its euphoric effects9.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): A non-psychoactive compound with potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties1 6.
- Cannabinol (CBN): A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is a degradation product of THC and has potential sedative effects4.
Endocannabinoids: Cannabinoids Produced by the Human Body
Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids produced naturally within the human body. The two primary endocannabinoids are:
- Anandamide (AEA): Often referred to as the "bliss molecule," it plays a role in regulating mood, memory, and appetite9.
- 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG): Involved in the regulation of immune system functions and inflammation9.
Synthetic Cannabinoids: Man-Made Cannabinoids
Synthetic cannabinoids are artificially created compounds designed to mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids. These include:
- Dronabinol: A synthetic form of THC used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and to stimulate appetite in AIDS patients2.
- Nabilone: Another synthetic cannabinoid similar to THC, used for similar therapeutic purposes as dronabinol2.
- JWH-018 and AM2201: Synthetic cannabinoids often found in products like "Spice" and "K2," known for their potent effects and associated health risks3 8.
Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids
Mental Health Disorders
Cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, have been studied for their potential in treating various mental health disorders. However, evidence suggests that while THC may improve anxiety symptoms in some cases, it can also worsen symptoms of psychosis1. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of cannabinoids for treating depression, ADHD, Tourette syndrome, PTSD, or psychosis1.
Pain Management and Inflammation
Cannabinoids have shown promise as analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents. They are used to manage chronic pain, particularly in conditions like multiple sclerosis and arthritis2 6. Synthetic cannabinoids like dronabinol and nabilone are also used for their pain-relieving properties2.
Cancer Treatment
Research indicates that cannabinoids may possess anticancer properties, with effects varying depending on the type of cancer and the specific cannabinoid used. Both phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids have demonstrated antitumor effects in preclinical studies5.
Autoimmune Diseases
Cannabinoids have immunosuppressive properties, making them potential treatments for autoimmune diseases. They can inhibit the proliferation of leukocytes, induce apoptosis in T cells and macrophages, and reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines6.
Sleep Disorders
THC and CBD are being explored as treatments for sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea. Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits, but more rigorous studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety7.
Conclusion
Cannabinoids encompass a wide range of compounds with diverse therapeutic potentials. While phytocannabinoids like THC and CBD are well-known, synthetic cannabinoids and endocannabinoids also play significant roles in medical research and treatment. Despite promising preliminary findings, further high-quality studies are necessary to fully understand the therapeutic benefits and risks associated with cannabinoid use.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Cannabinoids for the treatment of mental disorders and symptoms of mental disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Medicinal cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, show potential in treating symptoms of various mental disorders and may be safe for use in conjunction with other medical treatments.
Meta-Analysis
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedCannabinoids in medicine: A review of their therapeutic potential.
Cannabinoids show potential as antiemetics, appetite stimulants, analgesics, and treatments for multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, Tourette's syndrome, epilepsy, and glaucoma.
Meta-AnalysisHighly CitedThe synthetic cannabinoids phenomenon: from structure to toxicological properties. A review
Synthetic cannabinoids are a growing threat to drug policy due to their potency, efficacy, and potential for prolonged psychoactive effects.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedExogenous cannabinoids as substrates, inhibitors, and inducers of human drug metabolizing enzymes: a systematic review
Exogenous cannabinoids can influence human drug metabolism, but their clinical significance remains unclear due to limited human data.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedCannabinoids in the landscape of cancer
Cannabinoids show antitumor effects, with potential for use as single agents or in combination with antineoplastic drugs, depending on cancer type, concentration, and receptor targets.
Systematic ReviewRigorous JournalCannabinoids and autoimmune diseases: A systematic review.
Cannabinoids show potential as immunosuppressive and anti-fibrotic agents in treating autoimmune disorders like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedCannabinoid therapies in the management of sleep disorders: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies.
Cannabinoid therapies show promising potential for treating sleep disorders, but more large-scale, rigorous trials are needed to confirm their safety and efficacy.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedSynthetic cannabinoids: epidemiology, pharmacodynamics, and clinical implications.
Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) have potent pharmacological effects, including analgesic, anti-seizure, weight-loss, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer growth effects, but also cause medical and psychiatric emergencies due to their intensity and potential for structural modification
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedThe effects of cannabinoids on the brain
Cannabinoids in marijuana cause euphoria, enhance sensory perception, and impair memory, with their effects mediated by G protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors.
Highly CitedGas chromatographic analysis of naturally occurring cannabinoids: A review of literature published during the past decade.
GC-based analysis of naturally occurring cannabinoids has become more advanced and efficient over the past decade, with new derivatisation, ionisation, and mathematical models for method optimization.
Systematic Review