They create a pain reliever as effective as marijuana

Scientists from the University of California (United States) have created a new analgesic capable of acting on type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1) , the same as when consuming marijuana, according to the publication Nature Neuroscience .

Common painkillers, in addition to relieving pain, penetrate the bloodstream and reach the brain, leading to side effects on the central nervous system. However, the new substance, named URB937 , is capable of acting only in the peripheral system, without affecting the spinal cord and brain .

This also means that, while common painkillers can induce abuse in the consumption of alcohol and drugs, URB937 does not alter the consumption habits of patients, as shown by preliminary experiments with rodents.

The study opens the doors to the creation of analgesics that are less harmful to health and much more effective in reducing pain .