| Publication Abstract Display |
| Type: Published Manuscript |
| Title: A pilot study of the effects of cannabis on appetite hormones in HIV-infected adult men. |
| Authors: Riggs PK, Vaida F, Rossi SS, Sorkin LS, Gouaux B, Grant I, Ellis RJ |
| Year: 2011 |
| Publication: Brain Research |
| Volume: 1431 Issue: Pages: 46-52 |
| Abstract:Rationale: The endocannabinoid system is under active investigation as a pharmacological
target for obesity management due to its role in appetite regulation and metabolism.
Exogenous cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) stimulate appetite and food
intake. However, there are no controlled observations directly linking THC to changes of
most of the appetite hormones.
Objectives: We took the opportunity afforded by a placebo-controlled trial of smoked medicinal
cannabis for HIV-associated neuropathic pain to evaluate the effects of THC on the appetite
hormones ghrelin, leptin and PYY, as well as on insulin.
Methods: In this double-blind cross-over study, each subject was exposed to both active cannabis
(THC) and placebo.
Results: Compared to placebo, cannabis administration was associated with significant
increases in plasma levels of ghrelin and leptin, and decreases in PYY, but did not
significantly influence insulin levels.
Conclusion: These findings are consistent with modulation of appetite hormones mediated
through endogenous cannabinoid receptors, independent of glucose metabolism. |