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Abstract
Understanding of the structure and function of the endocannabinoid system is rapidly evolving. Physiological and pharmacological manipulations based on cannabinoid receptors, ligands and endocannabinoids have explained some medicinal attributes of cannabinoids as used across the world for thousands of years. Plant-derived and synthetic cannabinoids are available for therapeutic use. Small clinical trials have demonstrated analgesic potential in acute and chronic pain. Regulatory and pharmacological limitations of these agents have hindered pain research in humans. Selective agonists, antagonists and metabolic targets to enhance endogenous cannabinoid activity are in development. Government reports in Europe and North America have encouraged research into the use of cannabinoids for pain relief and endorsed the clinical trials in acute and chronic pain. The results of large clinical trials into cannabinoid use for acute pain is expected to be the catalyst for wider studies and possible changes in legislation. Long-term effects of psychoactive cannabinoids require close monitoring and international cooperation to define their role, if any, in CNS disorders.