Abstract

*Shevchuk M. M.

ABSTRACT

The term "cannabinoids" is used to refer to the secondary metabolites of cannabiscontained in hemp, their alteration products and synthetic analogues. At present, thestatus of cannabinoids as medicinal products is rather controversial. Search forways of influencing the components of endocannabinoid system is one of the areasof fundamental research in the world pharmacology. Trans-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THK) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well-knownand comprehensively studied cannabinoids. Psychotropic and addictive effects ofthe plant are attributed to tetrahydrocannabinol. Experimental and some clinicalstudies have established the effectiveness of antagonists of cannabinoid CB1receptors as anorectic agents, in the treatment of schizophrenia, alcohol addiction,disorders of cognitive functions and memory, in some neurodegenerative diseases,such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, Huntington's chorea and some otherdiseases. Endogenous cannabinoids are also considered as tissue regulators. Atpresent, there are also clinical and experimental preliminary studies of cannabinoidreceptor agonists for such problems as pain, skin lesions of various genesis,neuroprotection, cerebral ischemia, neoplastic neoplasms, rheumatoid arthritis,glaucoma, diseases of the alimentary tract, elevated intracranial pressure, multiplesclerosis, bronchial asthma. Current status of the use of cannabis compounds inglobal medical practice, and related regulatory issues are currently open. Issues ofwider use of active substances in medical practice for certain diseases are underdiscussion. This requires the development of certain recommendations regardingchanges in regulatory approaches in order to ensure access of patients in Ukraine tothis group of medicines and biologically active substances. Legalization of medicalmarijuana is an opportunity to study effects, to create safe and convenient drugdosage forms, and to control this process in the legal context.