Additive antinociceptive effects of mixtures of the kappa opioid receptor agonist spiradoline and the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55940 in rats

摘要

ObjectivePain is a significant clinical problem, and there is a need for pharmacotherapies that are more effective with fewer adverse effects. Cannabinoid receptor agonists enhance the antinociceptive effects of mu opioid receptor agonists; it is unclear whether they impact the effects of agonists acting at other opioid receptors. Kappa opioid receptor agonists have antinociceptive effects but their clinical use is precluded by adverse effects; however, their therapeutic potential might be realized if their antinociceptive effects could be selectively enhanced.