Volume 42, Issue S1 p. 90S-96S

Endocrine Effects of Marijuana

Todd T. Brown MD

Todd T. Brown MD

Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.

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Adrian S. Dobs MD, MHS

Corresponding Author

Adrian S. Dobs MD, MHS

Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.

Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, 1830 E. Monument St. Suite 333, Baltimore, MD 21287.Search for more papers by this author
First published: 16 January 2014
Citations: 100

Abstract

In the 35 years since the active compound of marijuana Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, was isolated, the psychological and physiological impact of marijuana use has been actively investigated. Animal models have demonstrated that cannabinoid administration acutely alters multiple hormonal systems, including the suppression of the gonadal steroids, growth hormone, prolactin, and thyroid hormone and the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. These effects are mediated by binding to the endogenous cannabinoid receptor in or near the hypothalamus. Despite these findings in animals, the effects in humans have been inconsistent, and discrepancies are likely due in part to the development of tolerance. The long-term consequences of marijuana use in humans on endocrine systems remain unclear.