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Effects of marihuana-dextroamphetamine combination
Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
|September 1, 1976
Summary
This study investigated the combined effects of dextroamphetamine sulfate and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) from marihuana. Findings suggest additive effects on vital signs but not on psychomotor performance impairment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Dextroamphetamine sulfate and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are psychoactive substances with distinct physiological and psychological effects.
- Understanding their combined effects is crucial for assessing potential risks and interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the combined effects of dextroamphetamine sulfate and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on cardiovascular function, psychomotor performance, and subjective experience.
- To determine if interactions between these substances are additive, synergistic, or antagonistic.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized, complete block design was employed.
- Subjects received either placebo, dextroamphetamine sulfate (10 mg/70 kg), or a combination, followed by a marihuana cigarette delivering delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) at varying doses (50 µg/kg or 25 µg/kg).
- Measurements included heart rate, blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, psychomotor performance tests, and subjective evaluations using the Cornell Medical Index (CMI).
Main Results:
- Cardiovascular measures (heart rate and blood pressure) showed additive increases when both drugs were administered.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes were nonspecific and appeared associated with marihuana use.
- Psychomotor performance impairment was primarily linked to marihuana (THC) consumption, with no significant difference observed between marihuana alone and the combination with dextroamphetamine.
- Subjective evaluations indicated only additive effects for the drug combination.
Conclusions:
- The combination of dextroamphetamine sulfate and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) results in additive effects on cardiovascular parameters.
- While THC impairs psychomotor performance, dextroamphetamine does not appear to exacerbate this impairment when co-administered.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the complex interactions between these substances.