Hyperphagia in pre-fed rats following oral delta9-THC.
Using a pre-feed paradigm, the effects of orally-administered delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on low baseline levels of nocturnal feeding were assessed. Following 2-h access to a palatable wet mash diet at dark onset, adult male Lister hooded rats (Charles River) were treated with either sesame seed oil vehicle or delta9- tetrahydrocannabinol (0.063, 0.12, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 mg/kg). One hour later, rats were allowed ad libitum access to standard chow, and intakes were monitored over the subsequent 24 h. Doses of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg/kg produced substantial hyperphagia during the first hour of testing. Subsequently, rats compensated for their overconsumption so that 24-h intakes were similar in all conditions. The data confirm anecdotal reports of the orexigenic actions of exogenous cannabinoids and suggest a critical role for endogenous cannabinoid systems in the regulation of appetite.
Williams
C M
CM
Department of Psychology, University of Reading, Whiteknights, UK.
Rogers
P J
PJ
Kirkham
T C
TC
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000818:Animals; D019167:Appetite Stimulants / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D013759:Dronabinol / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004435:Eating / Q000187:drug effects; D006963:Hyperphagia / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D013997:Time Factors
D019167:Appetite Stimulants; D013759:Dronabinol