Nabilone

Abstract

Nabilone is a synthetic cannabinoid. It was discovered and developed at the Lilly Research Laboratories as the first modern day cannabinoid to achieve the distinction of obtaining regulatory approval for use in the treatment of patients. Earlier work with Δ⁹-THC revealed that it was ITS metabolite, 11-hydroxy-Δ⁹-THC which accounted for the psychoactive properties. Further studies with this compound and with DMHP led to the synthesis and discovery of nabilone. Nabilone has undergone extensive clinical pharmacologic testing and its physiologic and drug abuse potential were studied. It was found to be an effective agent in the treatment of nausea and vomiting secondary to cancer therapy. In well-controlled studies it was superior to placebo and prochlorperazine. It appeared to be especially effective in children, a group that experiences lesser side effects. Nabilone has also been studied in early phase II trials as an agent for lowering intraocular pressure, as an antianxiety agent, and as a drug for producing bronchodilation. These other indications were not vigorously pursued because nabilone either had undesired side effects in these populations, or it was not better than current standard therapy. Nabilone was marketed in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and several other countries under the trade name Cesamet.