[Marijuana and reproduction. Effects on puberty and gestation in female rats. Experimental results]

The main psychoactive component of marihuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabiol (THC), was investigated at low doses (1 microgram/kg/day) on the onset of puberty, on the reproductive functions in female rats up to the seventy fifth to eightieth day of life as well as during the pregnancy. The administration of THC caused a delay of the onset of puberty, and the number of ova on the day of first estrus was significantly lower in treated animals. After puberty, alterations occurred in the neuroendocrine functions of animals received THC: estrous cycles were irregular, serum LH level was decreased. When THC was injected during the third week of pregnancy it caused a significant prolongation of the gestation period. There was 30% stillbirths (v.s. 3% in physiological saline treated rats). No teratological effects were observed. Serum LH, progesterone and prostaglandin contents were decreased. The results indicate that marihuana causes alterations in reproductive functions. The importance of fight against drug abuse is emphasized.