Cannabinoid Interaction with Brain Reward Systems — The Neurobiological Basis of Cannabinoid Abuse

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Abstract
Cannabis (marijuana) is one of the oldest psychoactive botanicals known to mankind. 1 Among the many pharmacological properties of this fascinating plant is a dose-dependent euphorigenic potency deriving primarily from the psychoactive cannabis constituent Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). From this euphorigenic property derives marijuana’s use as a recreational drug and its habit-forming and abuse potential. It is estimated that more than 20 million Americans are current marijuana users, 2 and marijuana currently serves (along with ethanol) in both North America and Europe as a “gateway drug”, introducing individuals (often teenagers) to the use of euphoriant drugs, from which some then progress to more addicting and destructive drugs such as cocaine and heroin. 23 Outright cannabis addiction, with obsessional drug-seeking and compulsive drug-taking behavior, is relatively rare with low-dose cannabis preparations (e.g., marijuana) but common with high-dose preparations (e.g., hashish). Thus, Δ9-THC can be categorized as an abusable and habit-forming drug, and is presently the most commonly used illicit drug in North America and Europe. 2

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