Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol and ethanol: Differential effects on sympathetic activity in differing environmental setting

Serum dopamine β-hydroxylase activity, a useful biochemical index of peripheral sympathetic nervous activity, was measured in rats treated with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol or ethanol or both substances. After 7 days of treatment with either substance, serum dopamine β-hydroxylase activity decreased significantly. Combined treatment with both agents enhanced the effects of each given alone. In rats subjected to immobilization stress, treatment with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol appeared to potentiate the stress-induced increase in serum enzyme activity. Treatment with ethanol, with or without Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, eflectively blocked this increase in enzyme activity. These results show that both substances have significant eflects on the sympathetic nervous system which are critically influenced by environmental setting.

Duke Scholars

Author Redford B. Williams Jr. Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Medicine & Neur ...