The Endocannabinoid System


Book Description

The Endocannabinoid System: Genetics, Biochemistry, Brain Disorders, and Therapy examines the cellular, biochemical, genetic, and therapeutic aspects of the endocannabinoid system. The chapters cover significant conceptual advances in the endocannabinoid field and shed light on the many brain disorders in which this biological system is involved. Written by world-leading experts in the field, the topics covered in this book will have a positive impact on the area of molecular biology, including, but not limited to, cell biology, neuroscience, pharmacology, signaling, disease mechanisms, and therapeutics. - Provides an introduction to endocannabinoids in the central nervous system and an overview to their functions in the brain - Presents information on neurobiological and cellular studies on the role of the cannabinoid signaling system and its implications in human diseases - Includes well-written overviews of the basics of endocannabinoid system structure and function - Contains well-illustrated material, with diagrams, charts, and tables - Explores compelling case studies and their application to chapters written by experts




Medical Cannabis Handbook for Healthcare Professionals


Book Description

Helps healthcare professionals navigate the maze of information and disinformation about medical cannabis Written for all healthcare professionals who are considering including medical cannabis in their treatment plans, this is the first handbook to disseminate all the information needed to advise patients safely and legally. Replete with evidence-based guidelines firmly grounded in the most up-to-date research, this resource covers the historical, legal, and biological context of medical cannabis so healthcare professionals can confidently discuss possible plans with their patients. Medical Cannabis Handbook For Healthcare Professionals delves into the biology of the endocannabinoid system, addressing how cannabis interacts with the body, its effects and side effects, and how to manage cannabis–drug interactions. Chapters discuss in detail how to talk to patients, what language providers can and cannot use, protocols for patient-centered dosing, and the variety of available cannabinoid pharmaceuticals. Based on the latest research, this book demonstrates the efficacy of cannabis in treating a broad range of symptoms and conditions. Written for any healthcare professional who might have to answer patient questions about medical cannabis, this handbook dispels common myths and confirms little-known facts about medical cannabis. KEY FEATURES: Delivers the most up-to-date, evidence-based research on medical cannabis to enhance understanding of this complex topic Provides historical, legal, and biological content so that healthcare professionals can confidently discuss medical cannabis with patients Dispels common cannabis myths and misinformation Discusses pain management regarding cannabis and opioids Co-published with Medical Marijuana 411, the leading medical cannabis education provider to offer online CME, CPE, and CNE courses to health professionals worldwide; and required certifications for dispensary consultants




Behavioral Neurobiology of the Endocannabinoid System


Book Description

The endocannabinoid signaling system is a key modulator of central nervous function. This volume, essential reading for interested neuroscientists, provides in-depth coverage of the roles of the endocannabinoid signaling system in the neurobiology of behavior.




The Neurobiological Basis of Suicide


Book Description

With recent studies using genetic, epigenetic, and other molecular and neurochemical approaches, a new era has begun in understanding pathophysiology of suicide. Emerging evidence suggests that neurobiological factors are not only critical in providing potential risk factors but also provide a promising approach to develop more effective treatment and prevention strategies. The Neurobiological Basis of Suicide discusses the most recent findings in suicide neurobiology. Psychological, psychosocial, and cultural factors are important in determining the risk factors for suicide; however, they offer weak prediction and can be of little clinical use. Interestingly, cognitive characteristics are different among depressed suicidal and depressed nonsuicidal subjects, and could be involved in the development of suicidal behavior. The characterization of the neurobiological basis of suicide is in delineating the risk factors associated with suicide. The Neurobiological Basis of Suicide focuses on how and why these neurobiological factors are crucial in the pathogenic mechanisms of suicidal behavior and how these findings can be transformed into potential therapeutic applications.




The Endocannabinoid System and Cannabis


Book Description

Improve your physical, mental, and emotional health with the plant that is rewriting medicine as we know it. An ancient system designed to protect and heal, the endocannabinoid system is a group of receptors, molecules, and enzymes crucial to optimum health. The Endocannabinoid System and Cannabis: A Perfect Partnership for Self-Regulation and Healing explores how this ancient system works and how the cannabis plant provides molecules that can heal and regulate multiple body functions. Whether an experienced cannabis user or a first-time explorer, you'll be empowered to use cannabis to improve your health and feel better.




From Bud to Brain: A Psychiatrist's View of Marijuana


Book Description

The trend toward liberalizing medical and recreational marijuana use is increasing the obligation on clinicians to provide useful information to the public. This book summarizes the science all healthcare professionals need to know in order to provide objective and relevant information to a variety of patients, from recreational and medicinal users to those who use regularly, and to adolescents and worried parents. The author brings two and a half decades of studying cannabinoid research, and over forty years' experience in psychiatric and addiction medicine practice, to shed light on the interaction between marijuana and the brain. Topics range from how marijuana produces pleasurable sensations, relaxation and novelty (the 'high'), to emerging medical uses, effects of regular use, addiction, and policy. Principles of motivational interviewing are outlined to help clinicians engage patients in meaningful, non-judgmental conversations about their experiences with marijuana. An invaluable guide for physicians, nurses, psychologists, therapists, and counsellors.




The Endocannabinoidome


Book Description

The Endocannabinoidome: The World of Endocannabinoids and Related Mediators is dedicated to the latest research and studies on endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors to illustrate their important role in the discovery of new, endocannabinoid-related, lipid mediators. Written by leading experts across different disciplines, this book focuses on the biochemical and anlayticial aspects of novel lipid signals, their pharmacological activities and their potential utilization for the development of new and effective therapeutic strategies. The first book of its kind, The Endocannabinoidome is a meaningful reference for all those involved in experimental efforts to further the development of this field. - Explores the novel and exciting aspects of several endocannabinoid-like molecules for which researchers are still seeking a function - Discusses the novel metabolic pathways for endocannabinoids in order to explain the failure of some clinical trials with inhibitors of more conventional metabolic pathways - Incorporates pharmacology, biochemistry and potential clinical applications to provide researchers with a complete look at endocannabinoids




Medicinal Cannabis and CBD in Mental Healthcare


Book Description

This book functions as a clinician’s guide to the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in the treatment of mental health conditions. It conveys the scientific evidence of efficacy of CBD as well as THC and addresses the social stigma attached to its medical use. The book describes the endocannabinoid system, how stress and the endocannabinoid system interact and key constituents, pharmacokinetics and safety aspects of medicinal cannabis, focusing on CBD and THC. Chapters on specific mental health conditions describe the underpinning pathomechanisms including how the endocannabinoid system is involved, and summarises the scientific evidence including animal and human research for the use of CBD and THC in treatment of such conditions. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, Alzheimer's Disease and autism spectrum disorder. Chapters also discuss treatment guidelines and case studies. Unique and focused, Medicinal Cannabis and CBD in Mental Healthcare is an invaluable reference for medical practitioners seeking to adopt CBD-use in their treatment plans.




Cannabinoid Modulation of Emotion, Memory, and Motivation


Book Description

The endocannabinoid system consists of cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous lipid ligands (endocannabinoids) and the enzymatic machinery for their synthesis and degradation. In the brain, endocannabinoids regulate ion channel activity and neurotransmitter release and thereby contribute to various aspects of brain function, including memory, reward and emotions. Their ability to modulate synaptic efficacy has a wide range of functional consequences and provides unique therapeutic possibilities. Unprecedented advances have been made in the understanding of the role of endocannabinoids in the regulation of the emotional brain over the past few years. However, a comprehensive book encompassing all these aspects is still lacking. The book will provide an overview of the role played by the endocannabinoid system in the regulation of emotional processes with particular emphasis on the modulation of memory and reward for emotionally arousing events and for the regulation of motivational aspects in cannabis use.




Cannabinoids and Pain


Book Description

This book presents a well-balanced view of the potential medical use of cannabinoids in pain. It comprehensively covers the current challenges with medical cannabis utilization and provides recommendations for research and future directions. Organized into nine sections, the book begins with an introduction to medical cannabis, including its history, regulations, and the general attitudes of pain physicians on cannabis. Section two explores the biological effects of marijuana via the endocannabinoid system and its complex structure of receptors and enzymes. Sections three, four, and five then delve further into pharmacology and the mechanisms of action applicable to cannabinoids in managing pain. Timely and socially conscious, section six examines the benefits of substituting opioids with cannabinoids for preoperative management. Echoing the book's well-rounded content, sections seven and eight consider the challenges with medical cannabis, including safety and quality control, brain development risks, vaping hazards, and withdrawal. The book then closes with a look at the future of cannabis in medical research. Thoroughly and equitably composed, Cannabinoids and Pain is an invaluable resource for primary care physicians, pain and palliative care physicians, and oncologists.