Contractile response of uterine smooth muscle to acetylcholine and marijuana extract

ABSTRACT

Marijuana extract (ME) is known to influence smooth muscle activity. This study was designed to investigate the effect of crude ME on rat uterine muscle and to explain the mechanism of action using antagonists such as atropine, ergometrine and propranolol. The contractions and the electrical activity were recorded on isolated superfused rat uteri. It is speculated that ME by its uterine stimulation action compromise uterine blood and may affect oxygen/nutrient transfer. The implication of this to the fetus is discussed. (AU)