Three Synthetic Cannabinoids Caused Lasting Anxiety, Motor Problems, and Memory Impairment in Mice

All three synthetic cannabinoids (MDMB-CHMINACA, 5F-ADB-PINACA, APICA) caused locomotor disruption and sustained anxiety at all time points (1, 3, 5 hours). MDMB-CHMINACA caused significant memory impairment at 1 and 3 hours. Elevated endocannabinoid levels (AEA and 2-AG) were detected at 1 hour after MDMB-CHMINACA and 5F-ADB-PINACA, along with reduced FAAH, MAGL, and BDNF expression.

Mice received single doses of three synthetic cannabinoids and were assessed for behavior and hippocampal endocannabinoid levels at 1, 3, and 5 hours post-administration using LC-MS and gene expression analysis.

Synthetic cannabinoids are far more potent and dangerous than natural cannabis. This time-course analysis reveals that their effects on the brain's endocannabinoid system persist for hours and involve disruption of the enzymes that normally regulate endocannabinoid levels.

The finding that synthetic cannabinoids disrupt the brain's own endocannabinoid regulation system helps explain why these substances cause more severe effects than natural cannabis and why users may experience prolonged cognitive impairment.

Mouse model with single-dose administration. Doses may not reflect human exposure patterns. Only three synthetic cannabinoids tested from hundreds in circulation. Short-term assessment only.