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The debate about whether cannabis induces dependence continues. In a series of animal studies, investigators addressed this question and tested a new experimental method of delivering vaporized cannabis to rodents to measure its reinforcing properties in a realistic model of human self-administration. Rats received puffs of aerosolized whole-plant cannabis extracts rich in either tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) in response to poking their noses through a hole.
THC-rich vapor increased both THC blood levels and the number of nose pokes while decreasing locomotor activity and increasing food intake. A THC marker was associated with lower CB1 receptor binding, implying that the receptors were occupied by THC. Discontinuing THC-r…