Development and application of a LC-MS/MS method for the analysis of plasma bioavailabilities of different cannabinoids after the administration of 'Cannabis sativa L.' extracts and MarinolTM

A lively interest in the cannabis plant can be verified for a long time. As a drug in the traditional medicine, different pieces of the cannabis plant were used against a palette of diseases such as pain (head- and stomach-ache), menstrual problems and diarrhoea. Further, it was used as a sedative and to induce sleep [1]. At the beginning of the 20th century, a scientific interest for cannabis has emerged. Research was done to detect the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of cannabis. The discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid system opened a broad field for research. This system gradually helped to better understand the molecular mechanisms of the cannabis effects. Links to other modulating or regulatory systems in our body are now possible [2]. The special applications of cannabis in traditional medicine, have to be clinically investigated with the scientific knowledge of today. Some applications are already established. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved MarinolTM (a soft gelatine capsule containing THC dissolved in sesame oil) to treat nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy in patients who have failed to respond adequately to conventional therapies. The antiemetic effects are comparable to conventional therapy such as domperidone [3]. Furthermore, the FDA approved MarinolTM to treat appetite loss associated with weight reduction in people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It was shown in recent studies that THC or cannabis preparations have a promising potential as a releasing factor, in moving disorders and as a pain reducer in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. Therefore further research is required. Worldwide, the use of natural cannabis products for medical purposes is practically not allowed. In contrast, drugs containing synthetic cannabinoids like dronabinol, a synthetic THC are often exempt from these restrictions. Synthetic products, however, have a disadvantage: they do not contain a well-balanced combination of active ...