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Rozanc J, Klumpers LE, Huestis MA, Tagen M. Tolerability of High-Dose Oral Δ 9-THC: Implications for Human Laboratory Study Design. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:437-448. [PMID: 38377580 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis, has been tested extensively in controlled administration human studies. Some studies require a high THC dose that may induce adverse events (AEs), such as those testing novel treatments for cannabinoid overdose. Although there are ethical concerns related to administering high THC doses, there is no systematic analysis on studies utilizing these doses. In this review, we examine studies that administered oral THC doses ≥30 mg ("high-dose THC"), focusing on reported tolerability, subjective effects, and pharmacokinetics (PK), with the objective to inform the design of future studies. Methods: A comprehensive PubMed search was performed to identify studies meeting pre-specified criteria. Results: Our search identified 27 publications from 17 high-dose oral THC laboratory studies, with single doses up to 90 mg and multiple doses up to 210 mg per day. The maximum plasma THC concentration (Cmax) appeared to increase in a dose-proportional manner over this dose range. All high-dose THC studies enrolled participants with previous cannabis experience, although current use ranged from nonusers to regular cannabis users. High-dose THC was generally well tolerated with transient mild to moderate AE, including nausea and vomiting, anxiety, paranoia, and sedation. There were occasional participant withdrawals due to AEs, but there were no serious AE. Participants with frequent cannabis use tolerated high-dose THC best. Conclusion: Although based on limited data, THC was generally adequately tolerated with single oral doses of at least 50 mg in a controlled laboratory setting in healthy participants with past cannabis experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Rozanc
- Verdient Science LLC, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Linda E Klumpers
- Verdient Science LLC, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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2
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De Aquino JP, Bahji A, Gómez O, Sofuoglu M. Alleviation of opioid withdrawal by cannabis and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol: A systematic review of observational and experimental human studies. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 241:109702. [PMID: 36434879 PMCID: PMC9772106 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While six U.S. states have already officially authorized cannabinoids to substitute opioids and treat opioid use disorder, the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids remain unclear, especially when weighted against their adverse effects. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of studies examining the association between opioid withdrawal and cannabis use or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) administration. We searched multiple databases from inception to July 30, 2022, and assessed study quality. RESULTS Eleven studies were identified, with a total of 5330 participants, of whom 64 % were male. Nine observational studies examined the association between cannabis use and opioid withdrawal. Two randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) investigated the withdrawal-alleviating effects of dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC. Four observational studies found an association between cannabis use and the alleviation of opioid withdrawal; one reported exacerbation of opioid withdrawal symptoms; and four reported no association. RCTs reported that THC alleviated opioid withdrawal, albeit with dose-dependent increases in measures of abuse liability, dysphoria, and tachycardia. There was high heterogeneity in measurements of opioid withdrawal and the type and dose of opioid at baseline. CONCLUSIONS Although there is preliminary evidence that cannabis and its main psychoactive constituent, THC, may alleviate opioid withdrawal, these effects are likely to have a narrow therapeutic window. Further, the potential of cannabinoids to alleviate opioid withdrawal is determined by complex interactions between patient characteristics and pharmacological factors. Collectively, these findings have clinical, methodological, and mechanistic implications for treating opioid withdrawal during cannabinoid use, and for efforts to alleviate opioid withdrawal using non-opioid therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao P De Aquino
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George St., New Haven, CT 06511, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue (151D), West Haven, CT 06516, USA; Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit (CNRU), Conneticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park St, 3rd Floor, New Haven, CT, 06519.
| | - Anees Bahji
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Department of Psychiatry, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alb., Canada
| | - Oscar Gómez
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, 7th Street, 40-02, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 300 George St., New Haven, CT 06511, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue (151D), West Haven, CT 06516, USA
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3
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Monfort A, Ferreira E, Leclair G, Lodygensky GA. Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis and Its Derivatives in Animals and Humans During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:919630. [PMID: 35903331 PMCID: PMC9315316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.919630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most widely used illicit drugs during pregnancy and lactation. With the recent legalization of cannabis in many countries, health professionals are increasingly exposed to pregnant and breastfeeding women who are consuming cannabis on a regular basis as a solution for depression, anxiety, nausea, and pain. Cannabis consumption during pregnancy can induce negative birth outcomes such as reduced birth weight and increased risk of prematurity and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. Yet, limited information is available regarding the pharmacokinetics of cannabis in the fetus and newborn exposed during pregnancy and lactation. Indeed, the official recommendations regarding the use of cannabis during these two critical development periods lack robust pharmacokinetics data and make it difficult for health professionals to guide their patients. Many clinical studies are currently evaluating the effects of cannabis on the brain development and base their groups mostly on questionnaires. These studies should be associated with pharmacokinetics studies to assess correlations between the infant brain development and the exposure to cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Our project aims to review the available data on the pharmacokinetics of cannabinoids in adults, neonates, and animals. If the available literature is abundant in adult humans and animals, there is still a lack of published data on the exposure of pregnant and lactating women and neonates. However, some of the published information causes concerns on the exposure and the potential effects of cannabis on fetuses and neonates. The safety of cannabis use for non-medical purpose during pregnancy and breastfeeding needs to be further characterized with proper pharmacokinetic studies in humans feasible in regions where cannabis has been legalized. Given the available data, significant transfer occurs to the fetus and the breastfed newborn with a theoretical risk of accumulation of products known to be biologically active.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaëlle Monfort
- Platform of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ema Ferreira
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Grégoire Leclair
- Platform of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Gregory Anton Lodygensky
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Gregory Anton Lodygensky,
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4
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The effect of oral Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol on the minimal alveolar concentration of sevoflurane: A randomised, controlled, observer-blinded experimental study. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2021; 38:58-63. [PMID: 32833854 DOI: 10.1097/eja.0000000000001295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis has increasingly been used for medical and recreational purposes. The main pharmacological compound in cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which has sedative, anxiolytic and analgesic effects. In some animal models, THC has also been shown to reduce the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of halothane and cyclopropane, but its effect on sevoflurane, currently the most commonly used inhalational anaesthetic agent, has not been investigated. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of THC on the MAC of sevoflurane in rats. METHODS Observer-blinded, randomised controlled trial. SETTING Centre for Biomedical Research of the Medical University of Vienna, 2019. INDIVIDUALS Thirty-eight adult Wistar rats. INTERVENTIONS The rats were allocated randomly into one of two groups. Group A received THC 10 mg kg and group B received the corresponding volume of placebo via gastric gavage (administration through a tube placed in the distal oesophagus). The rats were then individually anaesthetised in an airtight sevoflurane-flooded chamber, and the MAC in both groups was determined using Dixon's up-and-down method. Blood samples were drawn to measure serum concentrations of THC. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the MAC of sevoflurane in Groups A and B. RESULTS The bootstrap estimate of the MAC of sevoflurane was 2.1 (95% confidence interval 1.8 to 2.4) vol% in the THC group and 2.8 (95% confidence interval 2.7 to 2.9) vol% in the placebo group, corresponding to a significant MAC reduction of 26% in response to THC. CONCLUSION Gastric administration of THC 10 mg kg significantly reduced the MAC of sevoflurane by 26%. TRIAL REGISTRATION Not applicable.
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Brighenti V, Protti M, Anceschi L, Zanardi C, Mercolini L, Pellati F. Emerging challenges in the extraction, analysis and bioanalysis of cannabidiol and related compounds. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2020; 192:113633. [PMID: 33039911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2020.113633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a bioactive terpenophenolic compound isolated from Cannabis sativa L. It is known to possess several properties of pharmaceutical interest, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant, being it active as a multi-target compound. From a therapeutic point of view, CBD is most commonly used for seizure disorder in children. CBD is present in both medical and fiber-type C. sativa plants, but, unlike Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it is a non-psychoactive compound. Non-psychoactive or fiber-type C. sativa (also known as hemp) differs from the medical one, since it contains only low levels of THC and high levels of CBD and related non-psychoactive cannabinoids. In addition to medical Cannabis, which is used for many different therapeutic purposes, a great expansion of the market of hemp plant material and related products has been observed in recent years, due to its usage in many fields, including food, cosmetics and electronic cigarettes liquids (commonly known as e-liquids). In this view, this work is focused on recent advances on sample preparation strategies and analytical methods for the chemical analysis of CBD and related compounds in both C. sativa plant material, its derived products and biological samples. Since sample preparation is considered to be a crucial step in the development of reliable analytical methods for the determination of natural compounds in complex matrices, different extraction methods are discussed. As regards the analysis of CBD and related compounds, the application of both separation and non-separation methods is discussed in detail. The advantages, disadvantages and applicability of the different methodologies currently available are evaluated. The scientific interest in the development of portable devices for the reliable analysis of CBD in vegetable and biological samples is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Brighenti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Michele Protti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Lisa Anceschi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy; Doctorate School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103/287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Zanardi
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Mercolini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Federica Pellati
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy.
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6
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Rower JE, King AD, Wilkins D, Wilkes J, Yellepeddi V, Maese L, Lemons RS, Constance JE. Dronabinol Prescribing and Exposure Among Children and Young Adults Diagnosed with Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2020; 10:175-184. [PMID: 32678694 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2020.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The therapeutic utility of Cannabis in cancer is a topic of intense interest. Dronabinol is synthetic Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of Cannabis sativa, and is approved for treating refractory chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Little is known about dronabinol prescribing in children and young adults, and no published concentration data are available. This study evaluated national level dronabinol use and assessed concentrations of THC and its primary metabolites in patients with cancer <27 years of age prescribed dronabinol. Methods: Observational review of records from the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) and a regional network of hospitals in the Intermountain West, including a tertiary care children's hospital, Primary Children's Hospital (PCH), for inpatients <27 years of age prescribed dronabinol. Prospective blood samples were collected from children with cancer at PCH. Results: Across PHIS institutions, overall dronabinol prescribing aligned with the pharmacy records for those with cancer (p < 0.0001), and of these, 10.4% received dronabinol as inpatients. Blood collected within 72 hours of dronabinol administration was available from 10 children with a median age of 12.5 (range 6-17) years. Quantifiable concentrations were found in 4 (13%), 6 (20%), and 1 (3%) samples assayed for THC, 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (COOH-THC), and 11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (OH-THC), respectively. THC concentrations ranged between 0.100 and 0.128 ng/mL and were not associated with dose. Conclusion: Dronabinol prescribing appears exclusive to patients diagnosed with cancer, and its use has increased steadily in the past decade. In a small sample of children administered dronabinol, THC and metabolite concentrations were consistently low or undetectable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph E Rower
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Center for Human Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Amber D King
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Center for Human Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Diana Wilkins
- Center for Human Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jacob Wilkes
- Pediatric Analytics, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Venkata Yellepeddi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Luke Maese
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Richard S Lemons
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jonathan E Constance
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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A Systematic Review of the Efficacy of Cannabinoid Agonist Replacement Therapy for Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms. CNS Drugs 2018; 32:1113-1129. [PMID: 30361897 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-018-0577-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 30% of regular cannabis users report withdrawal symptoms on cessation of prolonged use, such as irritability, insomnia, decreased appetite, depressed mood, anxiety, and restlessness. However, among highly dependent and/or in-treatment users, the incidence of withdrawal can be even higher, reaching up to 50-95% of individuals. This syndrome was only recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) as a diagnosis with specific criteria in 2013. The treatment options are poor, with high rates of relapse and non-responders. In this scenario, agonist replacement therapy with cannabinoids has demonstrated potential as a promising therapeutic intervention, with a series of studies having been carried out in recent years. OBJECTIVE This review sought to summarize trials with cannabinoid agonist replacement therapy for cannabis withdrawal symptoms with the aim of evaluating the efficacy of this pharmacological intervention. DATA SOURCES We entered the following search terms on the PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases: (marijuana OR marihuana OR cannabis OR THC OR tetrahydrocannabinol OR hashish OR pot) AND (treatment OR medication) AND (withdrawal OR abstinence) AND (dronabinol OR nabilone OR nabiximols OR sativex OR cesamet OR synthetic cannabinoid). The date of the most recent search was September 2017. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS, AND INTERVENTIONS Original trials, published in English, performed on humans and dealing with cannabis users who were treated for cannabis withdrawal symptoms using synthetic cannabinoids were all included in the present systematic review. Quality and risk of bias across studies were assessed using a Cochrane tool. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS The first, second, and last authors read the abstracts of all studies found in the search (n = 243). The inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and 233 articles were excluded. The first and second authors independently developed a data extraction sheet based on the included articles. RESULTS The present review included ten original articles. Despite the limited number of studies and methodological differences, our findings demonstrate that the use of dronabinol, nabilone, or nabiximols, either alone or in combination with other drugs, shows promise in reducing cannabis withdrawal symptoms, probably with a dose-dependent effect. This has also been considered a safe group of medications with good tolerability and few adverse effects. LIMITATIONS No method of handling data and combining results of studies was carried out, representing a limitation of the review. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATION OF THE KEY FINDINGS Cannabinoids appear to be a promising group of drugs for the treatment of cannabis withdrawal symptoms. These medications may help decrease the rate of relapse in the treatment of cannabis dependence due to withdrawal symptoms occurring within the first few weeks of treatment. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION The protocol for this review has been registered in the PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO 2014:CRD42014014118).
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Vandrey R, Herrmann ES, Mitchell JM, Bigelow GE, Flegel R, LoDico C, Cone EJ. Pharmacokinetic Profile of Oral Cannabis in Humans: Blood and Oral Fluid Disposition and Relation to Pharmacodynamic Outcomes. J Anal Toxicol 2017; 41:83-99. [PMID: 28158482 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkx012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Most research on cannabis pharmacokinetics has evaluated inhaled cannabis, but oral ("edible") preparations comprise an increasing segment of the cannabis market. To assess oral cannabis pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, healthy adults (N = 6 per dose) were administered cannabis brownies containing 10, 25 or 50 mg 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Whole blood and oral fluid specimens were obtained at baseline and then for 9 days post-exposure; 6 days in a residential research setting and 3 days as outpatients. Measures of subjective, cardiovascular and performance effects were obtained at baseline and for 8 h post-ingestion. The mean Cmax for THC in whole blood was 1, 3.5 and 3.3 ng/mL for the 10, 25 and 50 mg THC doses, respectively. The mean maximum concentration (Cmax) and mean time to maximum concentration (Tmax) of 11-OH-THC in whole blood were similar to THC. Cmax blood concentrations of THCCOOH were generally higher than THC and had longer Tmax values. The mean Tmax for THC in oral fluid occurred immediately following oral dose administration, and appear to reflect local topical residue rather than systemic bioavailbility. Mean Cmax oral fluid concentrations of THCCOOH were lower than THC, erratic over time and mean Tmax occurred at longer times than THC. The window of THC detection ranged from 0 to 22 h for whole blood (limit of quantitation (LOQ) = 0.5 ng/mL) and 1.9 to 22 h for oral fluid (LOQ = 1.0 ng/mL). Subjective drug and cognitive performance effects were generally dose dependent, peaked at 1.5-3 h post-administration, and lasted 6-8 h. Whole blood cannabinoid concentrations were significantly correlated with subjective drug effects. Correlations between blood cannabinoids and cognitive performance measures, and between oral fluid and all pharmacodynamic outcomes were either non-significant or not orderly by dose. Quantitative levels of cannabinoids in whole blood and oral fluid were low compared with levels observed following inhalation of cannabis. The route of administration is important for interpretation of cannabinoid toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Vandrey
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr., Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Evan S Herrmann
- Columbia University & the New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, Unit#120, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - John M Mitchell
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - George E Bigelow
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr., Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Ronald Flegel
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Division of Workplace Programs (DWP), 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857, USA
| | - Charles LoDico
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Division of Workplace Programs (DWP), 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857, USA
| | - Edward J Cone
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr., Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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9
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Andrenyak DM, Moody DE, Slawson MH, O'Leary DS, Haney M. Determination of ∆-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 11-hydroxy-THC, 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC and Cannabidiol in Human Plasma using Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. J Anal Toxicol 2017; 41:277-288. [PMID: 28069869 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkw136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Two marijuana compounds of particular medical interest are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). A gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS-MS) method was developed to test for CBD, THC, hydroxy-THC (OH-THC) and carboxy-THC (COOH-THC) in human plasma. Calibrators (THC and OH-THC, 0.1 to 100; CBD, 0.25 to 100; COOH-THC, 0.5-500 ng/mL) and controls (0.3, 5 and 80 ng/mL, except COOH-THC at 1.5, 25 and 400 ng/mL) were prepared in blank matrix. Deuterated (d3) internal standards were added to 1-mL samples. Preparation involved acetonitrile precipitation, liquid-liquid extraction (hexane:ethyl acetate, 9:1), and MSTFA derivatization. An Agilent 7890 A GC was interfaced with an Agilent 7000 MS Triple Quadrupole. Selected reaction monitoring was employed. Blood samples were provided from a marijuana smoking study (two participants) and a CBD ingestion study (eight participants). Three analytes with the same transitions (THC, OH-THC and COOH-THC) were chromatographically separated. Matrix selectivity studies showed endogenous chromatographic peak area ratios (PAR) at the analyte retention times were <20% of the analyte limit of quantitation PAR. The intra-assay accuracy ranged from 83.5% to 118% of target and the intra-run imprecision ranged from 2.0% to 19.1%. The inter-assay accuracy ranged from 90.3% to 104% of target and the inter-run imprecision ranged from 6.5% to 12.0%. Stability was established for 25 hours at room temperature, 207 days at -20°C, after three freeze-thaw cycles and for 26 days for rederivatized processed samples. After smoking marijuana predictable concentrations of THC, OH-THC and COOH-THC were seen; low concentrations of CBD were detected at early time points. In moderate users who had not smoked for at least 9 hours before ingesting an 800 mg oral dose of CBD, the method was sensitive enough to follow residual concentrations of THC and OH-THC; sustained COOH-THC concentrations over 50 ng/mL validated its higher analytical range.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Andrenyak
- Center for Human Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - David E Moody
- Center for Human Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Matthew H Slawson
- Center for Human Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Daniel S O'Leary
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Margaret Haney
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia UniversityMedical Center, New York City, NY, USA
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10
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Lee D, Bergamaschi MM, Milman G, Barnes AJ, Queiroz RHC, Vandrey R, Huestis MA. Plasma Cannabinoid Pharmacokinetics After Controlled Smoking and Ad libitum Cannabis Smoking in Chronic Frequent Users. J Anal Toxicol 2016; 39:580-7. [PMID: 26378131 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkv082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
More Americans are dependent on cannabis than any other illicit drug. The main analytes for cannabis testing include the primary psychoactive constituent, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), equipotent 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC) and inactive 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH). Eleven adult chronic frequent cannabis smokers resided on a closed research unit with unlimited access to 5.9% THC cannabis cigarettes from 12:00 to 23:00 during two ad libitum smoking phases, followed by a 5-day abstinence period in seven participants. A single cigarette was smoked under controlled topography on the last day of the smoking and abstinence phases. Plasma cannabinoids were quantified by two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Median plasma maximum concentrations (Cmax) were 28.3 (THC), 3.9 (11-OH-THC) and 47.0 μg/L (THCCOOH) 0.5 h after controlled single cannabis smoking. Median Cmax 0.2-0.5 h after ad libitum smoking was higher for all analytes: 83.5 (THC), 14.2 (11-OH-THC) and 155 μg/L (THCCOOH). All 11 participants' plasma samples were THC and THCCOOH-positive, 58.3% had THC ≥5 μg/L and 79.2% were 11-OH-THC-positive 8.1-14 h after last cannabis smoking. Cannabinoid detection rates in seven participants 106-112 h (4-5 days) after last smoking were 92.9 (THC), 35.7 (11-OH-THC) and 100% (THCCOOH), with limits of quantification of 0.5 μg/L for THC and THCCOOH, and 1.0 μg/L for 11-OH-THC. These data greatly expand prior research findings on cannabinoid excretion profiles in chronic frequent cannabis smokers during ad libitum smoking. Smoking multiple cannabis cigarettes led to higher Cmax and AUC compared with smoking a single cigarette. The chronic frequent cannabis smokers exhibited extended detection windows for plasma cannabinoids, reflecting a large cannabinoid body burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayong Lee
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Blvd. Room 05A721, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Mateus M Bergamaschi
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Blvd. Room 05A721, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Garry Milman
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Blvd. Room 05A721, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Allan J Barnes
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Blvd. Room 05A721, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Regina H C Queiroz
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, IRP, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Blvd. Room 05A721, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Brellenthin AG, Koltyn KF. Exercise as an adjunctive treatment for cannabis use disorder. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2016; 42:481-489. [PMID: 27314543 PMCID: PMC5055462 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2016.1185434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite cannabis being the most widely used illicit substance in the United States, individuals diagnosed with cannabis use disorder (CUD) have few well-researched, affordable treatment options available to them. Although found to be effective for improving treatment outcomes in other drug populations, exercise is an affordable and highly accessible treatment approach that has not been routinely investigated in cannabis users. OBJECTIVES The aim of this paper is to inform the topic regarding exercise's potential as an adjunctive treatment for individuals with CUD. METHODS We reviewed the evidence surrounding cannabis use and its current treatment in the United States, explored the rationale for including exercise in the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs), and in particular, proposed a biological mechanism (i.e., endocannabinoids (eCBs)) that should be examined when utilizing exercise for the treatment of CUD. RESULTS Cannabis use is widespread and increasing in the United States. Chronic, heavy cannabis use may dysregulate the endogenous cannabinoid system, which has implications for several psychobiological processes that interact with the eCB system such as reward processing and the stress response. Given that exercise is a potent activator of the eCB system, it is mechanistically plausible that exercise could be an optimal method to supplement cessation efforts by reducing psychophysical withdrawal, managing stress, and attenuating drug cravings. CONCLUSION We suggest there is a strong behavioral and physiological rationale to design studies which specifically assess the efficacy of exercise, in combination with other therapies, in treating CUD. Moreover, it will be especially important to include the investigation of psychobiological mechanisms (e.g., eCBs, hippocampal volume), which have been associated with both exercise and SUDs, to examine the broader impact of exercise on behavioral and physiological responses to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelli F Koltyn
- a Department of Kinesiology , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , WI , USA
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Techniques and technologies for the bioanalysis of Sativex®, metabolites and related compounds. Bioanalysis 2016; 8:829-45. [DOI: 10.4155/bio-2015-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Sativex® is an oromucosal spray indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe spasticity in multiple sclerosis and is also an effective analgesic for advanced cancer patients. Sativex contains Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol in an approximately 1:1 ratio. The increasing prevalence of medicinal cannabis products highlights the importance of reliable bioanalysis and re-evaluation of the interpretation of positive test results for THC, as legal implications may arise in workplace, roadside and sports drug testing situations. This article summarizes published research on the bioanalysis of THC and cannabidiol, with particular focus on Sativex. Common screening and confirmatory testing of blood, urine, oral fluid and hair samples are outlined. Correlations between matrices and current analytical pitfalls are also addressed.
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13
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The pharmacokinetic disposition of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and its metabolite in elderly patients with dementia--role of differential presystemic conversion? Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:157-8. [PMID: 26537908 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-4138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Herrmann ES, Cone EJ, Mitchell JM, Bigelow GE, LoDico C, Flegel R, Vandrey R. Non-smoker exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke II: Effect of room ventilation on the physiological, subjective, and behavioral/cognitive effects. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 151:194-202. [PMID: 25957157 PMCID: PMC4747424 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug. Many individuals are incidentally exposed to secondhand cannabis smoke, but little is known about the effects of this exposure. This report examines the physiological, subjective, and behavioral/cognitive effects of secondhand cannabis exposure, and the influence of room ventilation on these effects. METHODS Non-cannabis-using individuals were exposed to secondhand cannabis smoke from six individuals smoking cannabis (11.3% THC) ad libitum in a specially constructed chamber for 1h. Chamber ventilation was experimentally manipulated so that participants were exposed under unventilated conditions or with ventilation at a rate of 11 air exchanges/h. Physiological, subjective and behavioral/cognitive measures of cannabis exposure assessed after exposure sessions were compared to baseline measures. RESULTS Exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke under unventilated conditions produced detectable cannabinoid levels in blood and urine, minor increases in heart rate, mild to moderate self-reported sedative drug effects, and impaired performance on the digit symbol substitution task (DSST). One urine specimen tested positive at using a 50 ng/ml cut-off and several specimens were positive at 20 ng/ml. Exposure under ventilated conditions resulted in much lower blood cannabinoid levels, and did not produce sedative drug effects, impairments in performance, or positive urine screen results. CONCLUSIONS Room ventilation has a pronounced effect on exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke. Under extreme, unventilated conditions, secondhand cannabis smoke exposure can produce detectable levels of THC in blood and urine, minor physiological and subjective drug effects, and minor impairment on a task requiring psychomotor ability and working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan S. Herrmann
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Edward J Cone
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - John M. Mitchell
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - George E. Bigelow
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Charles LoDico
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Ron Flegel
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
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Lee D, Vandrey R, Mendu DR, Murray JA, Barnes AJ, Huestis MA. Oral fluid cannabinoids in chronic frequent cannabis smokers during ad libitum cannabis smoking. Drug Test Anal 2014; 7:494-501. [PMID: 25220020 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Oral fluid (OF) offers a simple, non-invasive, directly observable sample collection for clinical and forensic drug testing. Given that chronic cannabis smokers often engage in drug administration multiple times daily, evaluating OF cannabinoid pharmacokinetics during ad libitum smoking is important for practical development of analytical methods and informed interpretation of test results. Eleven cannabis smokers resided in a closed research unit for 51 days, and underwent four, 5-day oral delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) treatments. Each medication period was separated by 9 days of ad libitum cannabis smoking from 12:00 to 23:00 h daily. Ten OF samples were collected from 9:00-22:00 h on each of the last ad libitum smoking days (Study Days 4, 18, 32, and 46). As the number of cannabis cigarettes smoked increased over the study days, OF THC, cannabinol (CBN), and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH) also increased with a significant effect of time since last smoking (Δtime; range, 0.0-17.4 h) and ≥88% detection rates; concentrations on Day 4 were significantly lower than those on Days 32 and 46 but not Day 18. Within 30 min of smoking, median THC, CBN, and THCCOOH concentrations were 689 µg/L, 116 µg/L, and 147 ng/L, respectively, decreasing to 19.4 µg/L, 2.4 µg/L, and 87.6 ng/L after 10 h. Cannabidiol and 11-hydroxy-THC showed overall lower detection rates of 29 and 8.6%, respectively. Cannabinoid disposition in OF was highly influenced by Δtime and composition of smoked cannabis. Furthermore, cannabinoid OF concentrations increased over ad libitum smoking days, in parallel with increased cannabis self-administration, possibly reflecting development of increased cannabis tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayong Lee
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Damodara R Mendu
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Allan J Barnes
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Chemistry and Drug Metabolism, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Baltimore, MD, USA
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