Synthetic cannabinoids , the largest and most diverse group of novel psychoactive substances

For a very long time, cannabis has been one of the most widely used illicit drugs worldwide. However, particularly over the last few years, its legal status has been changing across many geographical jurisdictions. With growing public interest in the medicinal use of cannabis-derived molecules and changing public perception about cannabis, understanding the pharmacological principles underlying the effects of cannabinoids, their therapeutic potential as well as adverse effects has become more important than ever. This has been accompanied by an explosion in scientific research focused on cannabinoids, particularly over the past couple of decades and scientific journals dedicated to cannabis and cannabinoid research have joined the ranks of scientific publishing. Hence, there is a particular need to summarize this growing body of evidence for the wider scientific community. This book aims to address this need by providing a critical overview on a range of topics relevant to understanding the effect of cannabinoids on human health. It is made up of three parts, further divided into various sections. In compiling this book the authors have endeavored to provide a balanced overview of the state-of-the-art evidence regarding cannabinoids with particular relevance to neuropsychiatric conditions. Written by a diverse group of scientists and clinicians, the various chapters and sections provide a comprehensive examination of the adverse effects and therapeutic potential of cannabinoids underpinned by relevant cannabinoid pharmacology. This book will serve as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians and students.