Influence of nicotinic receptor modulators on CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist (JWH133)-induced antinociception in mice

Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol is the active component in cannabis and has long been associated with pain relief. This effect is believed to be mediated through central and peripheral CB1 and peripheral CB2 receptors. We have explored the possible antinociceptive effect of a CB2 receptor agonist, JWH133, using the formalin test in mice. The drug was administered by the intracerebroventricular and intraperitoneal routes. Although no antinociceptive effect was observed after intracerebroventricular administration of JWH133, when the drug was administered by the intraperitoneal route, it produced an analgesic effect. The influence of nicotinic cholinergic receptor modulators, nicotine and mecamylamine, on antinociceptive effect of JWH133 was also studied. Nicotine increased and mecamylamine decreased the antinociceptive effect of JWH133. It is concluded that JWH133-induced analgesia is influenced by nicotinic cholinergic receptor activity. Behavioural Pharmacology 18:691-697 (C) 2007 Wolters Kluwer Health vertical bar Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.