J Cannabis Ther 2001(3/4):133-152

Arthritis

Analgesic and Reinforcing Properties of 9-THC-Hemisuccinate in Adjuvant-Arthritic Rats

Author
S.L. Broom, K.J. Sufka, M.A. ElSohly, S.A. Ross

Abstract
The use of delta-9-THC hemisuccinate (HS) in a suppository formulation is an attempt to develop a cannabinoid possessing possible therapeutic effects with a minimal side effect profile. The purpose of this study was to investigate the antinociceptive and reinforcing effects of rectally administered delta-9-THC-HS in rats. Tests were conducted in two groups of animals: Complete Freund's adjuvant-inflamed animals (CFA) and non-inflamed controls. A hotplate test was administered to index hyperalgesia and possible analgesic effects of delta-9-THC-HS on thermal nociception. CFA animals demonstrated shorter latencies than non-inflamed animals. The highest dose of delta-9-THC-HS produced longer hotplate latencies. Additionally, the reinforcing properties of 9-THC-HS were evaluated using the Conditioned Place Preference (CPP) paradigm. Delta-9-THC-HS produced an increase in preference scores in non-inflamed animals (positive reinforcement), but did not affect preference scores in CFA animals. These data suggest that delta-9-THC-HS has therapeutic potential and is unlikely to possess an abuse liability when used in the context of chronic pain.

Keywords
delta-9-THC, adjuvant-inflamed, rat, hotplate, conditioned place preference

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