Abstract
Relatively high dosages of delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 1-THC) markedly suppressed almost all normally occurring behavioral elements in rats as observed in both a small and a large open field. This effect persisted following repeated treatment and testing for 3 consecutive days. The psychotropically inert but related compound cannabidiol (CBD) did not suppress behavior, but in contrast had a mild activating effect. Both compounds decreased defecation during the test procedure. In addition, delta 1-THC, but not CBD, induced a bizarre circling and turning response, that was evident over all 3 test days and occurred even when the rats were deeply sedated. It is suggested that an analysis of this phenomenon may be useful in measuring the psychotomimetic action of delta 1-THC and similar compounds in rats.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 556-60 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Psychopharmacology |
| Volume | 84 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| Publication status | Published - 1984 |
Keywords
- Animals
- Cannabidiol
- Defecation
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Dronabinol
- Hallucinogens
- Humans
- Male
- Motor Activity
- Phencyclidine
- Rats
- Rats, Inbred Strains
- Stereotyped Behavior