Hungary: New Study on Chronic Neuropathic Pain

Source: Helyes Z, et al. Life Sci
2003 Sep 19;73(18):2345-53

New basic research at the University of Pecs, Hungary, supports the benefits of cannabinoids in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain. The endocannabinoids anandamide and palmitylethanolamide inhibited the RTX-induced release of two neuropeptides, that play an important role in the development of neuropathic hyperalgesia. RTX (resiniferatoxin) provokes the release of neuropeptides. Additionally, the two endocannabinoids significantly decreased neuropathic mechanical hyperalgesia (increased pain sensation) 7 days after damage to the sciatic nerve in animals.