CP 55,940

Drugbox
IUPAC_name = 2- [(1S,2R,5S)-5-hydroxy-2-(3-hydroxypropyl) cyclohexyl] -5-(2-methyloctan-2-yl)phenol


width= 180
CAS_number= 83002-04-4
ATC_prefix=
ATC_suffix=
PubChem= 3086156
DrugBank=
C=24 | H=40 | O=3
molecular_weight = 376.573 g/mol
bioavailability=
metabolism =
elimination_half-life=
excretion =
pregnancy_category =
legal_status =
routes_of_administration=

CP 55,940, is a cannabinoid which mimics the effects of naturally occurring THC (one of the psychoactive compounds found in marijuana). CP 55,940 was created by Pfizer in 1974 but was never marketed. It is currently used to study the endocannabinoid system. Some effects that have been noted are a greatly decreased rates of lever pressing in exposed mice, and a greater reaction to opiates in exposed mice. CP 55,940 is 45 times more potent than Δ⁹-THC, and fully antagonized by rimonabant (SR141716A). [Rinaldi-Carmona M, Pialot F, Congy C, Redon E, Barth F, Bachy A, Brelière JC, Soubrié P, Le Fur G. "Characterization and distribution of binding sites for [3H] -SR 141716A, a selective brain (CB1) cannabinoid receptor antagonist, in rodent brain." Life Sci 1996, 58:1239-47. PMID 8614277]

In the United States no law specifically controls CP 55,940, however under the Federal Analog Act it is likely considered illegal if intended for human consumption due to its chemical similarity to cannabinoids found in marijuana, a Schedule I drug. There is no information on the dangers or neurotoxicity of CP 55,940, although in general cannabinoids tend to be neuroprotective rather than neurotoxic. However there could be potential risks of overdose as CP 55,940 is considerably more potent than Δ⁹-THC.

CP 55,940 reportedly produces cannabis-like effects in humans at doses as low as 0.25 - 1 milligrams and could potentially be used as an alternative to medicinal marijuana. However its recreational use is limited by its lack of stability. Scientific suppliers advise storing this compound at -20°C, colder than most domestic freezers are capable of sustaining. Above this temperature CP 55,940 degrades relatively quickly, resulting in progressive loss of potency the longer that it is stored for, and so doses reported by recreational users vary widely. However, the absence of any substantial potency testing as well the substance's relatively short time in the public must be taken into account.

References