dronabinol

Dronabinol is a synthetic delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis. It is sold as Marinol (capsules) and Syndros (oral solution). In the United States, dronabinol is a Schedule III controlled substance with approved medical uses.

Medical uses: It is approved to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in patients who do not respond to standard antiemetics, and to treat weight loss and anorexia in HIV/AIDS.

Mechanism: Dronabinol is a partial agonist at cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, producing antiemetic and orexigenic effects through central and peripheral pathways.

Pharmacokinetics: Oral bioavailability is limited by first-pass metabolism. Peak effects occur within 1 to 4 hours for oral solutions and later for capsules. It is extensively metabolized by the liver and excreted mainly in feces.

Safety: Common adverse effects include drowsiness, dizziness, mood changes, dry mouth, tachycardia, and hypotension. Psychiatric symptoms such as confusion or anxiety may occur. It is contraindicated in hypersensitivity to cannabinoids; caution is advised in pregnancy, cardiovascular or psychiatric disorders, and with alcohol or other CNS depressants.

Regulatory status: Dronabinol is approved in several countries and is marketed under brand names and generics. In the United States, it is scheduled as a controlled substance with medical uses and potential for abuse.