CB1 receptor
Main function
CB1 regulates communication between nerve cells by controlling the release of neurotransmitters. It plays an important role in cognition, memory, appetite, reward, pain perception, mood, nausea control and motor coordination. CB1 is also the main receptor responsible for the intoxicating effects produced by THC-like cannabinoids.
Main body locations
Positive and negative describe interaction direction, not whether an effect is good or bad. Activating a target can have unwanted effects, while reducing or blocking it can sometimes have beneficial effects.
Increased activity
Increased CB1 activity can increase intoxication, altered perception, relaxation, appetite and food reward, while reducing pain signalling, nausea and vomiting. Strong activation can impair short-term memory, reaction time and motor coordination. Very strong activation, especially after a high cannabinoid dose, can contribute to strong intoxication or a "green out", with effects such as dizziness, heavy sedation, nausea and sometimes vomiting.
Reduced or blocked activity
Reduced or blocked CB1 activity decreases intoxication, appetite and food reward. It can also reduce CB1-mediated pain relief and anti-nausea effects, potentially increasing pain sensitivity or susceptibility to nausea.