Synthetic Cannabinoids: A Pharmacological and Toxicological Overview

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Roque Bravo, R (Author) Other; Silva, RS (Author) Other; Malheiro, RF (Author) Other; Helena Carmo (Author) FFUP; Felix Carvalho (Author) FFUP; da Silva, DD (Author) Other; Silva, JP (Author) Other

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: ANNUAL REVIEW OF PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY

Vol. 63

Pages: 187-209

ISSN: 0362-1642

Publisher: ANNUAL REVIEWS

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 1 Citation

Scopus - 17 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00X-TC7

DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-031122-113758

Abstract (EN): Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a chemically diverse group of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) that target the endocannabinoid system, triggering a plethora of actions (e.g., elevated mood sensation, relaxation, appetite stimulation) that resemble, but are more intense than, those induced by cannabis. Although some of these effects have been explored for therapeutic applications, anticipated stronger psychoactive effects than cannabis and reduced risk perception have increased the recreational use of SCs, which have dominated the NPS market in the United States and Europe over the past decade. However, rising SC-related intoxications and deaths represent a major public health concern and embody a major challenge for policy makers. Here, we review the pharmacology and toxicology of SCs. A thorough characterization of SCs' pharmacodynamics and toxicodynamics is important to better understand the main mechanisms underlying acute and chronic effects of SCs, interpret the clinical/pathological findings related to SC use, and improve SC risk awareness.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 23