Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Reproduction and Fertility: Where We Stand

Author: Fonseca, Bruno M.; Rebelo, Irene

Description: Although cannabis use is increasing in general population, their prevalence among young adults is remarkably high. In recent years, their medical use gained a renewed interest. However, it can underline the reputation of cannabis being a harmless drug. Between cannabinoids, uniquely found on the cannabis plant, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the well-studied compound. It is responsible for the psychoactive effects via central cannabinoid receptors. Nevertheless, cannabinoids interact with other chemical signalling systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. THC indirectly decreases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion by the hypothalamus. The consequences are diverse, and several key hormones are affected. THC disturbs important reproductive events like folliculogenesis, ovulation and sperm maturation and function. Although generally accepted that cannabinoid consumption impacts male and female fertility, prevailing evidence remains largely on pre-clinical studies. Here, we introduce cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, and we review the most prominent clinical evidence about cannabis consumption in reproductive potential and teratogenicity.

Subject headings: Cannabinoids; Cannabis; Dronabinol; Female; Fertility; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Humans; Male; Reproduction; Seeds; Pregnancy; Marijuana

Publication year: 2022

Journal or book title: Reproductive Sciences

Volume: 29

Issue: 9

Pages: 2429-2439

Find the full text: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/S43032-021-00588-1

Find more like this one (cited by): https://scholar.google.com/scholar?cites=15969690592554545700&as_sdt=1000005&sciodt=0,16&hl=en

Serial number: 3972

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