Introduction
This article is based on the ASAM Review of Potential Pharmacological Treatments for Cannabis Abuse published on August 9,2021.
Antagonist therapies aim to block CB1 receptors. As a result this blocks the action of THC.
The equivalent to this strategy is Naltrexone for opioids.
Rimonabant
CB1 Antagonist.
Early human lab studies showed subjective reduction in “High” after cannabis administration.
When studied as a potential treatment for obesity it was discovered that Rimonabant led to increased anxiety, depression and suicidality.
Partial Antagonist
Currently under development.
Attempt to decrease the subjective effects of cannabis but avoid anxiety, depression, and SI side effects.
References
American Society of Addiction Medicine. (2021, August 9). A review of potential pharmacological treatments for cannabis abuse. https://www.asam.org/blog-details/article/2021/08/09/a-review-of-potential-pharmacological-treatments-for-cannabis-abuse