Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026
07:51
Administration of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in Adolescent and Adult Mice
Published on: August 1, 2025
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Evaluation of sex differences in cannabinoid dependence
Julie A Marusich1, Timothy W Lefever1, Kateland R Antonazzo1
1RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194, USA.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|March 4, 2014
Summary
This study investigated delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dependence in male and female rats, finding that precipitated withdrawal affects cognitive and affective behaviors similarly across sexes, with minimal sex differences observed in most withdrawal symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Chronic cannabis use is associated with withdrawal symptoms, potentially more severe in women.
- Limited research exists on chronic delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) effects and dependence in female animal models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine sex differences in THC dependence and precipitated withdrawal in adult rats.
- To characterize the behavioral domains affected by THC withdrawal in both sexes.
Main Methods:
- Adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats received daily THC or vehicle for 6.5 days.
- Rats were challenged with rimonabant or vehicle on day 7 to precipitate withdrawal.
- Withdrawal behaviors, including somatic, cognitive, and affective signs, were assessed.
Main Results:
- Chronic THC administration disrupted estrous cycling and caused weight loss in both sexes.
- Rimonabant precipitated a significant withdrawal syndrome in THC-dependent rats, affecting somatic, cognitive, and affective domains.
- Most withdrawal signs were similar between sexes, with only increased retropulsion noted in females.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first to examine THC dependence in adult rats of both sexes.
- THC withdrawal in rats involves disruptions beyond somatic signs, impacting cognitive and affective functioning.
- Observed withdrawal signs in rodents align with those reported in human cannabis users.
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