delta 1-Tetrahydrocannabinol-induced circling behavior in rats: a possible measure of psychotomimetic activity?
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.
D000818:Animals; D002185:Cannabidiol / Q000494:pharmacology; D003672:Defecation / Q000187:drug effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D013759:Dronabinol / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006213:Hallucinogens; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000187:drug effects; D010622:Phencyclidine / Q000494:pharmacology; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D013239:Stereotyped Behavior / Q000187:drug effects*
D006213:Hallucinogens; D002185:Cannabidiol; D013759:Dronabinol; D010622:Phencyclidine