Dependence on delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol: studies on precipitated and abrupt withdrawal

A cannabinoid antagonist, SR 141716A, dose dependently precipitated a behavioral withdrawal syndrome in rats continuously infused i.p. for only 4 days with relatively low-dose regimens of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol. The following dose regimens, expressed as mg/kg/24 hr, were used for days 1 through 4: high-12.5, 25, 50 and 100; medium-2.5, 5, 10 and 20; and low-0.5, 1, 2 and 4. The major withdrawal signs of the syndrome were scratching, rubbing face with paws, licking, wetdog shakes, arched back and ptosis (at least 50% closure of eyelids). At the highest dose regimen, other signs noted in fewer subjects were biting, tongue rolling, retropulsion, head shakes, extended limbs or high stepping, ataxia, myoclonic spasms and front paw treading. During abrupt withdrawal (delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol was discontinued and vehicle substituted) abstinence signs were also noted; however, except during a 48-hr observation period, withdrawal was not sufficiently robust to achieve statistical significance. The results of this study provide evidence that a modest course of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol can produce physical dependence. Hence, the risk and incidence of marijuana dependence in humans may be greater than previously projected.