cannabinopioids

Cannabinopioids are a class of compounds that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, much like cannabis-derived cannabinoids. However, they are not derived from the cannabis plant itself. This category includes both endocannabinoids, which are produced naturally within the body, and synthetic cannabinoids, which are man-made substances. Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), play a role in regulating various physiological processes including mood, appetite, pain, and memory. They bind to cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 and CB2, located throughout the body. Synthetic cannabinoids, on the other hand, are often designed to mimic the effects of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. These synthetic compounds can have unpredictable and sometimes dangerous effects, and their use is a significant public health concern in many regions. Research into cannabinopioids, both natural and synthetic, aims to understand their complex mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications, as well as to mitigate the risks associated with synthetic analogues.