Multiple Sclerosis Discovery Forum

Inspiring Connections

Utility Navigation

User Top Menu

Last updated: 23 Feb 2015

Dronabinol

Summary
Trade name: 
Marinol
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Class: 
Neuroprotector
(20)
Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.
Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Axelrod J, Wink D
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jul 7; 95(14):8268-73. PMID: 9653176. Abstract
(23)
Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) exerts a direct neuroprotective effect in a human cell culture model of Parkinson's disease.
Carroll CB, Zeissler M-L, Hanemann CO, Zajicek J
Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol. 2012 Oct; 38(6):535-47. PMID: 22236282. Abstract
(25)
Cannabinoids provide neuroprotection against 6-hydroxydopamine toxicity in vivo and in vitro: relevance to Parkinson's disease.
Lastres-Becker I, Molina-Holgado F, Ramos JA, Mechoulam R, Fernández-Ruiz J
Neurobiol Dis. 2005 Jun-Jul; 19(1-2):96-107. PMID: 15837565. Abstract
Target: 
Cannabinoid receptor CB1
(28)
Determination and characterization of a cannabinoid receptor in rat brain.
Devane WA, Dysarz FA, Johnson MR, Melvin LS, Howlett AC
Mol Pharmacol. 1988 Nov; 34(5):605-13. PMID: 2848184. Abstract
(30)
Molecular cloning of a human cannabinoid receptor which is also expressed in testis.
Gérard CM, Mollereau C, Vassart G, Parmentier M
Biochem J. 1991 Oct 1; 279 ( Pt 1):129-34. PMID: 1718258. Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor CB2
(31)
Molecular characterization of a peripheral receptor for cannabinoids.
Munro S, Thomas KL, Abu-Shaar M
Nature. 1993 Sep 2; 365(6441):61-5. PMID: 7689702. Abstract
Status for MS: 
Phase III trial for PPMS and SPMS has been completed
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
(2)
Enrollment complete for cannabinoid MS study
FDA News
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.fdanews.com/articles/108988-enrollment-complete-for-cannabinoid-ms-study.
Phase III trial for MS with muscle spasticity has been completed
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
Administration: 
Oral
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Commercial: 
Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat nausea associated with chemotherapy (1985)
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to stimulate appetite in individuals with HIV/AIDS (1992)
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Marinol is manufactured by Banner Pharmacaps for AbbVie Inc.
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Names
Name: 
Dronabinol
Trade name: 
Marinol
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Synonyms: 
(-)-delta(sup 1)-3,4-trans-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
(-)-delta9-trans-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
(6aR,10aR)-6a,7,8,10a-Tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-6H-dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
(l)-delta(sup 1)-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
1-trans-delta(sup 9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
1-trans-delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
3-Pentyl-6,6,9-trimethyl-6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydro-6H-dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
6,6,9-Trimethyl-3-pentyl-7,8,9,10-tetrahydro-6H-dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
6H-Dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol, 6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-, (6aR-trans)-
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Abbott 40566
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Cannabinol, 1-trans-delta(sup 9)-tetrahydro-
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Cannabinol, delta1-tetrahydro-
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
CCRIS 4726
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Δ9-THC
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
delta(9)-Tetrahydrocannibinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta(sup 1)-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta(sup 1)-Thc
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta(sup 9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta(sup 9)-Thc
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta-9-THC
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
delta1-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta1-Tetrahydrocannabinol (VAN)
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta1-THC
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (VAN)
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
delta9-THC
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Deltanyne
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Dronabinolum
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
HSDB 6471
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
l-delta1-trans-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Marinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Namisol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
NSC 134454
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
QCD 84924
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
QCD-84924
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
SP 104
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-6H-dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Tetrahydrocannabinols (-)-delta1-3,4-trans-form
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
THC
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
UNII-7J8897W37S
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Systematic name: 
1-trans-delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
6H-Dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol, 6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-, (6aR,10aR)-
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
6H-Dibenzo(b,d)pyran-1-ol, 6a,7,8,10a-tetrahydro-6,6,9-trimethyl-3-pentyl-, (6aR-trans)-
(4)
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Physiology
Class: 
Neuroprotector
(20)
Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.
Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Axelrod J, Wink D
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jul 7; 95(14):8268-73. PMID: 9653176. Abstract
(23)
Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) exerts a direct neuroprotective effect in a human cell culture model of Parkinson's disease.
Carroll CB, Zeissler M-L, Hanemann CO, Zajicek J
Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol. 2012 Oct; 38(6):535-47. PMID: 22236282. Abstract
(25)
Cannabinoids provide neuroprotection against 6-hydroxydopamine toxicity in vivo and in vitro: relevance to Parkinson's disease.
Lastres-Becker I, Molina-Holgado F, Ramos JA, Mechoulam R, Fernández-Ruiz J
Neurobiol Dis. 2005 Jun-Jul; 19(1-2):96-107. PMID: 15837565. Abstract
Target: 
Cannabinoid receptor CB1
(28)
Determination and characterization of a cannabinoid receptor in rat brain.
Devane WA, Dysarz FA, Johnson MR, Melvin LS, Howlett AC
Mol Pharmacol. 1988 Nov; 34(5):605-13. PMID: 2848184. Abstract
(30)
Molecular cloning of a human cannabinoid receptor which is also expressed in testis.
Gérard CM, Mollereau C, Vassart G, Parmentier M
Biochem J. 1991 Oct 1; 279 ( Pt 1):129-34. PMID: 1718258. Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor CB2
(31)
Molecular characterization of a peripheral receptor for cannabinoids.
Munro S, Thomas KL, Abu-Shaar M
Nature. 1993 Sep 2; 365(6441):61-5. PMID: 7689702. Abstract
Properties: 
Tetrahydrocannabinol is a naturally-occurring, terpenophenolic, psychoactive compound that is produced by plants of the Cannabis genus
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol is the most active form of tetrahydrocannabinol
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol was initially isolated, characterized, and partially synthesized in 1964
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Dronabinol is a synthetic version of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
Molecular weight, 314.46
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
Antioxidant
(20)
Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.
Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Axelrod J, Wink D
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jul 7; 95(14):8268-73. PMID: 9653176. Abstract
Very lipophilic
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
Onset of action occurs 0.5 to 1 hours after administration, with the peak effect occurring 2 to 4 hours after administration
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
Absorbed almost completely after a single oral dose, but only 10 to 20% reaches systemic circulation because of high solubility in lipids and hepatic metabolism
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Pharmacokinetics after both single and multiple doses have been examined in healthy individuals
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
Hydroxylated by CYP enzymes in the liver; the resulting metabolites, some of which retain activity, are then converted to glucuronides, which are excreted into the intestine
(29)
Cannabinoid pharmacology: the first 66 years.
Pertwee RG
Br J Pharmacol. 2006 Jan; 147 Suppl 1:S163-71. PMID: 16402100. Abstract
Excreted, along with its metabolites, in both urine and feces
(18)
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
Steady-state levels are reached during the first two weeks of treatment, based on a study of the urinary cannabinoid/creatinine ratio
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.

Mechanisms/Effects

Human: 
delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol is largely responsible for the psychotropic properties of cannabis
(29)
Cannabinoid pharmacology: the first 66 years.
Pertwee RG
Br J Pharmacol. 2006 Jan; 147 Suppl 1:S163-71. PMID: 16402100. Abstract
Acts as an agonist of the cannabinoid receptor CB1, a G protein-coupled receptor, and inhibits cyclic AMP accumulation, as shown by experiments in which the receptor was expressed in a Chinese hamster ovary cell line
(30)
Molecular cloning of a human cannabinoid receptor which is also expressed in testis.
Gérard CM, Mollereau C, Vassart G, Parmentier M
Biochem J. 1991 Oct 1; 279 ( Pt 1):129-34. PMID: 1718258. Abstract
Acts as an agonist for the CB1 and CB2 receptors, inhibiting foreskolin-stimulated accumulation of cyclic AMP, as shown by experiments involving Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with CB1 or CB2 cDNAs
(34)
Comparison of the pharmacology and signal transduction of the human cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Felder CC, Joyce KE, Briley EM, Mansouri J, Mackie K, Blond O, Lai Y, Ma AL, Mitchell RL
Mol Pharmacol. 1995 Sep; 48(3):443-50. PMID: 7565624. Abstract
Binds the cannabinoid receptor CB2, a G protein-coupled receptor, as shown by experiments in which the receptor was expressed in monkey kidney COS cells
(31)
Molecular characterization of a peripheral receptor for cannabinoids.
Munro S, Thomas KL, Abu-Shaar M
Nature. 1993 Sep 2; 365(6441):61-5. PMID: 7689702. Abstract
Displays neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects against three toxins relevant to Parkinson's disease (1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium, lactacystin, and paraquat) in cultures of differentiated neuroblastoma cells, and these effects might be mediated by the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma
(23)
Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) exerts a direct neuroprotective effect in a human cell culture model of Parkinson's disease.
Carroll CB, Zeissler M-L, Hanemann CO, Zajicek J
Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol. 2012 Oct; 38(6):535-47. PMID: 22236282. Abstract
Animal: 
Binds the cannabinoid receptor CB1 from rat brain
(28)
Determination and characterization of a cannabinoid receptor in rat brain.
Devane WA, Dysarz FA, Johnson MR, Melvin LS, Howlett AC
Mol Pharmacol. 1988 Nov; 34(5):605-13. PMID: 2848184. Abstract
Inhibits the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
(22)
Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol: a novel treatment for experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.
Lyman WD, Sonett JR, Brosnan CF, Elkin R, Bornstein MB
J Neuroimmunol. 1989 Jun; 23(1):73-81. PMID: 2542370. Abstract
Strongly reduces signs of inflammation in the central nervous system in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model
(22)
Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol: a novel treatment for experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.
Lyman WD, Sonett JR, Brosnan CF, Elkin R, Bornstein MB
J Neuroimmunol. 1989 Jun; 23(1):73-81. PMID: 2542370. Abstract
Reduces tremor and spasticity in a chronic relapsing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis mouse model
(13)
Cannabinoids control spasticity and tremor in a multiple sclerosis model.
Baker D, Pryce G, Croxford JL, Brown P, Pertwee RG, Huffman JW, Layward L
Nature. 2000 Mar 2; 404(6773):84-7. PMID: 10716447. Abstract
Non-sedating doses reduce disability accumulation during relapsing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice in a dose-dependent manner
(36)
Neuroprotection in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Progressive Multiple Sclerosis by Cannabis-Based Cannabinoids.
Pryce G, Riddall DR, Selwood DL, Giovannoni G, Baker D
J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2014 Dec 24. Epub 2014 Dec 24. PMID: 25537576. Abstract
Non-sedating doses do not reduce relapsing autoimmunity during relapsing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice
(36)
Neuroprotection in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Progressive Multiple Sclerosis by Cannabis-Based Cannabinoids.
Pryce G, Riddall DR, Selwood DL, Giovannoni G, Baker D
J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2014 Dec 24. Epub 2014 Dec 24. PMID: 25537576. Abstract
Reduces the inflammatory Th17 phenotype (which is enhanced in MS), as shown by experiments with mouse T cells that induce experimental autoimmune encephalitis upon injection
(35)
Cannabinoids decrease the th17 inflammatory autoimmune phenotype.
Kozela E, Juknat A, Kaushansky N, Rimmerman N, Ben-Nun A, Vogel Z
J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2013 Dec; 8(5):1265-76. Epub 2013 Jul 28. PMID: 23892791. Abstract
Suppresses, in a dose-dependent manner, the production and secretion of interleukin-17 by reactivated mouse T cells that induce experimental autoimmune encephalitis upon injection
(35)
Cannabinoids decrease the th17 inflammatory autoimmune phenotype.
Kozela E, Juknat A, Kaushansky N, Rimmerman N, Ben-Nun A, Vogel Z
J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2013 Dec; 8(5):1265-76. Epub 2013 Jul 28. PMID: 23892791. Abstract
Reduces the expression of interleukin-6 (an important factor in Th17 induction) at the RNA and protein level by reactivated mouse T cells that induce experimental autoimmune encephalitis upon injection
(35)
Cannabinoids decrease the th17 inflammatory autoimmune phenotype.
Kozela E, Juknat A, Kaushansky N, Rimmerman N, Ben-Nun A, Vogel Z
J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2013 Dec; 8(5):1265-76. Epub 2013 Jul 28. PMID: 23892791. Abstract
Does not affect the level of tumor necrosis factor-alpha or interferon-gamma produced by reactivated mouse T cells that induce experimental autoimmune encephalitis upon injection
(35)
Cannabinoids decrease the th17 inflammatory autoimmune phenotype.
Kozela E, Juknat A, Kaushansky N, Rimmerman N, Ben-Nun A, Vogel Z
J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2013 Dec; 8(5):1265-76. Epub 2013 Jul 28. PMID: 23892791. Abstract
Provides neuroprotection in a rat model of Parkinson's disease
(25)
Cannabinoids provide neuroprotection against 6-hydroxydopamine toxicity in vivo and in vitro: relevance to Parkinson's disease.
Lastres-Becker I, Molina-Holgado F, Ramos JA, Mechoulam R, Fernández-Ruiz J
Neurobiol Dis. 2005 Jun-Jul; 19(1-2):96-107. PMID: 15837565. Abstract
Displays neuroprotective properties in rat cortical neuron cultures, a function that is independent of cannabinoid receptor activity
(20)
Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.
Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Axelrod J, Wink D
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jul 7; 95(14):8268-73. PMID: 9653176. Abstract
Protects cultured rat cortical neurons from glutamate toxicity
(20)
Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.
Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Axelrod J, Wink D
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jul 7; 95(14):8268-73. PMID: 9653176. Abstract
Prevents oxidative damage induced by hydroperoxide in rat cortical neuron cultures
(20)
Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.
Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Axelrod J, Wink D
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jul 7; 95(14):8268-73. PMID: 9653176. Abstract
Displays anti-inflammatory effects toward a mouse macrophage cell line
(21)
Effects of cannabinoids on LPS-stimulated inflammatory mediator release from macrophages: involvement of eicosanoids.
Chang YH, Lee ST, Lin WW
J Cell Biochem. 2001; 81(4):715-23. PMID: 11329626. Abstract
Reduces lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced release of inflammatory mediators nitric oxide, interleukin 6, and prostaglandin E2, as well as LPS-induced induction of cyclooxygenase 2, by a mouse macrophage cell line
(21)
Effects of cannabinoids on LPS-stimulated inflammatory mediator release from macrophages: involvement of eicosanoids.
Chang YH, Lee ST, Lin WW
J Cell Biochem. 2001; 81(4):715-23. PMID: 11329626. Abstract
Competitively inhibits acetylcholinesterase from the electric eel
(24)
A molecular link between the active component of marijuana and Alzheimer's disease pathology.
Eubanks LM, Rogers CJ, Beuscher AE, Koob GF, Olson AJ, Dickerson TJ, Janda KD
Mol Pharm. 2006 Nov-Dec; 3(6):773-7. PMID: 17140265. Abstract
Regulatory and Commercial Status
Status for MS: 
Phase III trial for PPMS and SPMS has been completed
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
(2)
Enrollment complete for cannabinoid MS study
FDA News
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.fdanews.com/articles/108988-enrollment-complete-for-cannabinoid-ms-study.
Phase III trial for MS with muscle spasticity has been completed
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
Other uses: 
Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat nausea associated with chemotherapy (1985)
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to stimulate appetite in individuals with HIV/AIDS (1992)
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Shown to have analgesic effects in a placebo-controlled study involving cancer pain, as well as in a followup, single-dose study
(33)
Cannabis and Cannabinoids (PDQ®)
National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 21 Nov 2013
Accessed on 7 Mar 2014 from http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/cannabis/healthprofessional/page5.
Reduced spasticity and pain associated with spinal cord injury in a single case, placebo-controlled, double-blind study
(16)
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol shows antispastic and analgesic effects in a single case double-blind trial.
Maurer M, Henn V, Dittrich A, Hofmann A
Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 1990; 240(1):1-4. PMID: 2175265. Abstract
Decreased spasticity associated with spinal cord injury in an open-label study
(17)
The treatment of spasticity with Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol in persons with spinal cord injury.
Hagenbach U, Luz S, Ghafoor N, Berger JM, Grotenhermen F, Brenneisen R, Mäder M
Spinal Cord. 2007 Aug; 45(8):551-62. Epub 2006 Oct 17. PMID: 17043680. Abstract
Might be useful for treating Alzheimer's disease, based on an ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and acetylcholinesterase-induced amyloid beta-peptide aggregation
(24)
A molecular link between the active component of marijuana and Alzheimer's disease pathology.
Eubanks LM, Rogers CJ, Beuscher AE, Koob GF, Olson AJ, Dickerson TJ, Janda KD
Mol Pharm. 2006 Nov-Dec; 3(6):773-7. PMID: 17140265. Abstract
Decreases neurodegeneration in a rat model of Parkinson's disease
(25)
Cannabinoids provide neuroprotection against 6-hydroxydopamine toxicity in vivo and in vitro: relevance to Parkinson's disease.
Lastres-Becker I, Molina-Holgado F, Ramos JA, Mechoulam R, Fernández-Ruiz J
Neurobiol Dis. 2005 Jun-Jul; 19(1-2):96-107. PMID: 15837565. Abstract
Has shown potential for therapeutic value in some animal models of Huntington's disease but not others
(26)
Loss of striatal type 1 cannabinoid receptors is a key pathogenic factor in Huntington's disease.
Blázquez C, Chiarlone A, Sagredo O, Aguado T, Pazos RM, Resel E, Palazuelos J, Julien B, Salazar M, Börner C, et al.
Brain. 2011 Jan; 134(Pt 1):119-36. Epub 2010 Oct 07. PMID: 20929960. Abstract
(27)
Behavioural and molecular consequences of chronic cannabinoid treatment in Huntington's disease transgenic mice.
Dowie MJ, Howard ML, Nicholson LFB, Faull RLM, Hannan AJ, Glass M
Neuroscience. 2010 Sep 29; 170(1):324-36. Epub 2010 Jul 01. PMID: 20600638. Abstract
Administration: 
Oral
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Negative effects: 
Abdominal pain
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Amnesia
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Anxiety
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Asthenia
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Ataxia
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Confusion
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Depersonalization
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Diarrhea
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
Dizziness
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Euphoria
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Hallucination
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Dose-related effects on mood, cognition, memory, and perception, which are reversible
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Nausea
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Palpitations
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Paranoid reaction
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Somnolence
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Tachycardia
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Vomiting
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Vasodilation
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Commercial: 
Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat nausea associated with chemotherapy (1985)
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to stimulate appetite in individuals with HIV/AIDS (1992)
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Marinol is manufactured by Banner Pharmacaps for AbbVie Inc.
(32)
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Key Clinical Trials
Placebo-controlled Trials: 
Trial name: 
Cannabinoid Use in Progressive Inflammatory brain Disease (CUPID) (publ 2013, 2015)
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
(3)
CUPID: Cannabinoid Use in Progressive Inflammatory brain Disease
Multiple Sclerosis Trust, 25 Sep 2013
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.mstrust.org.uk/atoz/cupid.jsp.
(37)
The Cannabinoid Use in Progressive Inflammatory brain Disease (CUPID) trial: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled parallel-group multicentre trial and economic evaluation of cannabinoids to slow progression in multiple sclerosis.
Ball S, Vickery J, Hobart J, Wright D, Green C, Shearer J, Nunn A, Cano M G, Macmanus D, Miller D, et al.
Health Technol Assess. 2015 Feb; 19(12):1-188. PMID: 25676540. Abstract
Phase: 
Phase III trial
(2)
Enrollment complete for cannabinoid MS study
FDA News
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.fdanews.com/articles/108988-enrollment-complete-for-cannabinoid-ms-study.
Study Design: 
Government institute- and foundation-funded, multicenter, parallel, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to examine whether oral dronabinol (with a maximum dose of 28 mg per day, depending on body weight and adverse effects) can slow disease progression, as assessed by progression in the Expanded Disability Status Scale score and change in the physical impact subscale of the MS impact scale (primary outcomes) and a variety of secondary outcomes
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Disease Stage: 
PPMS or SPMS
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
498
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Duration: 
36 months
(1)
Effect of dronabinol on progression in progressive multiple sclerosis (CUPID): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Ball S, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Miller D, Cano M G, McManus D, Mallik S, Hobart J, et al.
Lancet Neurol. 2013 Jul 12. PMID: 23856559. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
Dronabinol was not associated with any significant effects on primary or secondary outcomes
(37)
The Cannabinoid Use in Progressive Inflammatory brain Disease (CUPID) trial: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled parallel-group multicentre trial and economic evaluation of cannabinoids to slow progression in multiple sclerosis.
Ball S, Vickery J, Hobart J, Wright D, Green C, Shearer J, Nunn A, Cano M G, Macmanus D, Miller D, et al.
Health Technol Assess. 2015 Feb; 19(12):1-188. PMID: 25676540. Abstract
Trial name: 
CAnnabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to Multiple Sclerosis (CAMS) (publ November 2003, December 2005)
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
(7)
Cannabinoids in multiple sclerosis (CAMS) study: safety and efficacy data for 12 months follow up.
Zajicek J, Sanders HP, Wright DE, Vickery PJ, Ingram WM, Reilly SM, Nunn AJ, Teare LJ, Fox PJ, Thompson AJ
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2005 Dec; 76(12):1664-9. PMID: 16291891. Abstract
Phase: 
Phase III trial
(6)
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Russo EB
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb; 4(1):245-59. PMID: 18728714. Abstract
Study Design: 
Government institute- and foundation-funded, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to test the effects of oral dronabinol (with a maximum daily dose of 25 mg, depending on body weight) or cannabis extract versus placebo on spasticity, as measured by a change in the Ashworth score (primary outcome measure), and other measures such as walking speed, as measured by a timed 10 m walk
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
; individuals could continue treatment in a double-blinded, placebo-controlled followup study
(7)
Cannabinoids in multiple sclerosis (CAMS) study: safety and efficacy data for 12 months follow up.
Zajicek J, Sanders HP, Wright DE, Vickery PJ, Ingram WM, Reilly SM, Nunn AJ, Teare LJ, Fox PJ, Thompson AJ
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2005 Dec; 76(12):1664-9. PMID: 16291891. Abstract
Disease Stage: 
Stable MS with muscle spasticity
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
667 enrolled, with 611 followed to the primary endpoint
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
; 502 continued in the followup study
(7)
Cannabinoids in multiple sclerosis (CAMS) study: safety and efficacy data for 12 months follow up.
Zajicek J, Sanders HP, Wright DE, Vickery PJ, Ingram WM, Reilly SM, Nunn AJ, Teare LJ, Fox PJ, Thompson AJ
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2005 Dec; 76(12):1664-9. PMID: 16291891. Abstract
Duration: 
15 weeks
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
, with 12 months of followup
(7)
Cannabinoids in multiple sclerosis (CAMS) study: safety and efficacy data for 12 months follow up.
Zajicek J, Sanders HP, Wright DE, Vickery PJ, Ingram WM, Reilly SM, Nunn AJ, Teare LJ, Fox PJ, Thompson AJ
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2005 Dec; 76(12):1664-9. PMID: 16291891. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
In the initial 15 week trial, neither active treatment had a positive effect on spasticity as measured by the Ashworth scale, but treatments did have some benefit on walking speed, patients' perceptions of spasticity, and pain
(5)
Cannabinoids for treatment of spasticity and other symptoms related to multiple sclerosis (CAMS study): multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial.
Zajicek J, Fox P, Sanders H, Wright D, Vickery J, Nunn A, Thompson A, UK MS Research Group
Lancet. 2003 Nov 8; 362(9395):1517-26. PMID: 14615106. Abstract
; over 12 months, each active treatment was associated with a small reduction in spasticity
(7)
Cannabinoids in multiple sclerosis (CAMS) study: safety and efficacy data for 12 months follow up.
Zajicek J, Sanders HP, Wright DE, Vickery PJ, Ingram WM, Reilly SM, Nunn AJ, Teare LJ, Fox PJ, Thompson AJ
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2005 Dec; 76(12):1664-9. PMID: 16291891. Abstract
Trial name: 
Svendsen et al., BMJ, July 2004 trial
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Phase: 
Phase II trial
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Study Design: 
Foundation-supported (with industry-supplied medication), randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial to examine the effects of oral dronabinol (with a maximum daily dose of 10 mg) on pain caused by lesions in the central nervous system
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Disease Stage: 
MS with central pain
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
24
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Duration: 
Two 3-week treatment periods separated by a 3-week washout period
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
Dronabinol was associated with a reduction in the median spontaneous pain intensity and an increase in the median pain relief score
(19)
Does the cannabinoid dronabinol reduce central pain in multiple sclerosis? Randomised double blind placebo controlled crossover trial.
Svendsen KB, Jensen TS, Bach FW
BMJ. 2004 Jul 31; 329(7460):253. Epub 2004 Jul 16. PMID: 15258006. Abstract
Trial name: 
Killestein et al., Neurology, May 2002 trial
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
Phase: 
Phase II trial
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
Study Design: 
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, twofold crossover trial to determine the effects of dronabinol (2.5 to 5 mg) or Cannabis sativa plant extract versus placebo on spasticity; each treatment was given for 4 weeks, with the lower dose used for the first 2 weeks and doubled, if it was tolerated well, for the second 2 weeks
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
(12)
Cannabis for spasticity and multiple sclerosis
Bandolier
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.medicine.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/neurol/cannspms.html.
Disease Stage: 
PPMS or SPMS with severe spasticity
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
(12)
Cannabis for spasticity and multiple sclerosis
Bandolier
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.medicine.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/neurol/cannspms.html.
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
16
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
Duration: 
Three 4-week treatment periods separated by 4-week washout periods
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
Neither active treatment was associated with a reduction of spasticity
(11)
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy of orally administered cannabinoids in MS.
Killestein J, Hoogervorst ELJ, Reif M, Kalkers NF, Van Loenen AC, Staats PGM, Gorter RW, Uitdehaag BMJ, Polman CH
Neurology. 2002 May 14; 58(9):1404-7. PMID: 12011290. Abstract
Trial name: 
Ungerleider et al., Adv. Alcohol Subst. Abuse, 1987 trial
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
Phase: 
Phase II trial
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
Study Design: 
Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial to examine the effects of dronabinol on spasticity, as assessed by subjective ratings; in random order, participants received 5 days of drug and 5 days of placebo, separated by a 2-day washout period; escalating doses of drug (2.5 to 15 mg) were tested
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
Disease Stage: 
MS with spasticity
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
13
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
Duration: 
For each dose, two 5-day treatment periods separated by a 2-day washout
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
At doses >7.5 mg, dronabinol was associated with reduced spasticity as assessed by scoring by participants but not physicians
(10)
Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Ungerleider JT, Andyrsiak T, Fairbanks L, Ellison GW, Myers LW
Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse. 1987; 7(1):39-50. PMID: 2831701. Abstract
(12)
Cannabis for spasticity and multiple sclerosis
Bandolier
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://www.medicine.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/neurol/cannspms.html.
Trial name: 
Clifford, Ann. Neurol., June 1983 trial
(14)
Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in multiple sclerosis.
Clifford DB
Ann Neurol. 1983 Jun; 13(6):669-71. PMID: 6309074. Abstract
Phase: 
Pilot trial
(14)
Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in multiple sclerosis.
Clifford DB
Ann Neurol. 1983 Jun; 13(6):669-71. PMID: 6309074. Abstract
Study Design: 
Single-blind, placebo-controlled trial to examine the effects of oral dronabinol (5 to 15 mg) on tremor and ataxia
(14)
Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in multiple sclerosis.
Clifford DB
Ann Neurol. 1983 Jun; 13(6):669-71. PMID: 6309074. Abstract
(15)
Cannabis-based medicines in multiple sclerosis--a review of clinical studies.
Rog DJ
Immunobiology. 2010 Aug; 215(8):658-72. Epub 2010 Apr 07. PMID: 20541836. Abstract
Disease Stage: 
MS with tremor and ataxia
(14)
Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in multiple sclerosis.
Clifford DB
Ann Neurol. 1983 Jun; 13(6):669-71. PMID: 6309074. Abstract
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
8
(14)
Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in multiple sclerosis.
Clifford DB
Ann Neurol. 1983 Jun; 13(6):669-71. PMID: 6309074. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
Dronabinol was associated with objective improvement in tremor in 2 participants and with mild subjective improvement in 5 participants
(14)
Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in multiple sclerosis.
Clifford DB
Ann Neurol. 1983 Jun; 13(6):669-71. PMID: 6309074. Abstract
(15)
Cannabis-based medicines in multiple sclerosis--a review of clinical studies.
Rog DJ
Immunobiology. 2010 Aug; 215(8):658-72. Epub 2010 Apr 07. PMID: 20541836. Abstract
Trial name: 
Petro et al., J. Clin. Pharmacol., August-September 1981 trial
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
Phase: 
Pilot trial
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
Study Design: 
Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to examine the effects of oral dronabinol (5 or 10 mg) on reflexes, muscle tone, and muscle power
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
Disease Stage: 
MS
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
Enrollment/Number of Patients: 
9
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
Duration: 
1 day (?)
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
Status/Outcome: 
Both doses reduced spasticity; a blinded examiner identified which indiivduals received dronabinol in 7 of the 9 cases
(8)
Treatment of human spasticity with delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Petro DJ, Ellenberger C
J Clin Pharmacol. 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(8-9 Suppl):413S-416S. PMID: 6271839. Abstract
(9)
Therapeutic aspects of cannabis and cannabinoids.
Robson P
Br J Psychiatry. 2001 Feb; 178:107-15. PMID: 11157423. Abstract
Head-to-Head Trials: 
Other Trials: 
References
Substance Name: Dronabinol
ChemIDplus Advanced, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 28 Jan 2014 from http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/rn/1972-08-3#names.
Tetrahydrocannabinol
National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine
Accessed on 29 Jan 2014 from http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=16078&loc=ec_rcs#x332.
MARINOL®
AbbVie Inc., Feb 2013
Accessed on 30 Jan 2014 from http://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/marinol_PI.pdf.
Cannabis and Cannabinoids (PDQ®)
National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 21 Nov 2013
Accessed on 7 Mar 2014 from http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/cannabis/healthprofessional/page5.
DOI: 
doi/10.7493/msdf.10.9466.1