Abstract
Introduction: The endocannabinoid system is widely distributed throughout the brain, with high concentration in areas of mood regulation and emotional processing. This indicates a possible pathway for the treatment of mood disorders, in particular, depression, PTSD, and anxiety.2 This literature review aims to examine and pinpoint possible targets within the endocannabinoid system as a pathway for the treatment of depression, PTSD, and anxiety. Methods: This literature review presents an overview of studies where specific portions of the endocannabinoid system have been tested on either animals or humans as a target in the treatment of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Discussion: The CB1 receptor has a role in the regulation of depression and anxiety, and the CB1 receptor agonists HU210, rimonabant, and AM251 are promising treatments for depression and anxiety. However, the endocannabinoid degradative pathway FAAH, AEA, and 2-AG are questionable targets in anxiety since certain doses could cause an increase in anxiety.1,4,5 Endocannabinoid system agonist show a promising treatment pathway for PTSD that encompasses the reduction of most symptoms related to the disorder, but only nabilone has been studied. Conclusion: Most studies indicate that using CB1 receptor agonists and the degradative pathway, there is significant reduction in depression and anxiety. However, most of the studies are animal based, which is why there needs to be a transition to human studies in order to develop therapeutic agents. In addition, the role of AEA in anxiety needs to be further researched as a possible pathway with animal studies. Also, while the endocannabinoid agonists show a promising comprehensive treatment for PTSD, more studies must be done to support the role of the endocannabinoid system in the treatment of PTSD.