J Cannabis Ther 2003(3/4):163-174

Review and Outlook

Future of Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Therapeutics

Author
E. Russo

Abstract
This study reviews human clinical experience to date with several synthetic cannabinoids, including nabilone, levonantradol, ajulemic acid (CT3), dexanabinol (HU-211), HU-308, and SR141716 (Rimonabant®). Additionally, the concept of "clinical endogenous cannabinoid deficiency" is explored as a possible factor in migraine, idiopathic bowel disease, fibromyalgia and other clinical pain states. The concept of analgesic synergy of cannabinoids and opioids is addressed. A cannabinoid-mediated improvement in night vision at the retinal level is discussed, as well as its potential application to treatment of retinitis pigmentosa and other conditions. Additionally noted is the role of cannabinoid treatment in neuroprotection and its application to closed head injury, cerebrovascular accidents, and CNS degenerative diseases including Alzheimer, Huntington, Parkinson diseases and ALS. Excellent clinical results employing cannabis based medicine extracts (CBME) in spasticity and spasms of MS suggests extension of such treatment to other spasmodic and dystonic conditions. Finally, controversial areas of cannabinoid treatment in obstetrics, gynecology and pediatrics are addressed along with a rationale for such interventions.

Keywords
Nabilone, levonantradol, ajulemic acid, dexanabinol, HU-308, SR141716, cannabis, medical marijuana, migraine, idiopathic bowel disease, fibromyalgia, night vision, retinitis pigmentosa, neuroprotection, dystonia, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics

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