Addiction
A chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences. Involves neuroadaptations in reward, stress, and executive function circuits.
In Depth
Cannabis addiction (cannabis use disorder) affects approximately 9% of lifetime users. The neurobiological basis involves THC-induced dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens, followed by neuroadaptations that reduce reward sensitivity and increase stress reactivity. The ECS is also implicated in addiction to other substances — endocannabinoid signaling modulates the rewarding effects of opioids, alcohol, and nicotine. CBD has shown promise for reducing cravings in opioid and tobacco addiction in early clinical trials.
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More in Clinical
Dravet Syndrome
A severe, treatment-resistant form of childhood epilepsy characterized by prolonged seizures, often triggered by fever, beginning in the first year of life.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS)
A severe form of childhood-onset epilepsy characterized by multiple seizure types, slow spike-wave EEG pattern, and cognitive impairment.
Epidiolex
The FDA-approved pharmaceutical formulation of purified cannabidiol (CBD), manufactured by GW Pharmaceuticals (now Jazz Pharmaceuticals). Approved in 2018 for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Dronabinol (Marinol)
A synthetic form of THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) approved by the FDA for chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting and AIDS-related anorexia.
Nabilone (Cesamet)
A synthetic cannabinoid analogue of THC approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. More potent than dronabinol.