Effect of synthetic cannabinoids on elevated intraocular pressure

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology
• Cannabinoid research

Background:

• Ocular hypertension is a risk factor for glaucoma.
• Delta-1-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) derivatives are explored for their potential therapeutic effects.
• Understanding the ocular hypotensive effects of novel cannabinoid compounds is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of two novel delta-1-tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives (BW146Y and BW29Y) in reducing intraocular pressure.
• To assess the impact of these compounds on blood pressure and psychological/performance parameters.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-masked, single oral dose study was conducted.
• Participants included patients with ocular hypertension.
• Intraocular pressure, orthostatic blood pressure, and psychological/performance metrics were measured.

Main Results:

• BW146Y demonstrated a significant reduction in intraocular pressure, independent of blood pressure changes.
• BW29Y did not effectively lower intraocular pressure at the tested doses.
• Most psychological and performance parameters remained unaffected, with a minor exception in the BW29Y group's time production test.
• Mild subjective side effects were reported by patients receiving both compounds.

Conclusions:

• BW146Y shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent for lowering intraocular pressure in ocular hypertension.
• BW29Y was found to be ineffective for ocular pressure reduction in this study.
• The tested delta-1-tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives appear to have a generally favorable safety profile concerning systemic effects and cognitive performance.