The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of chemicals and receptors in our bodies and our animals’ bodies that help regulate various physiological functions and maintain balance known as homeostasis. Think of it as a team of messengers and receivers working together to ensure everything runs smoothly. The messengers, called endocannabinoids, are naturally produced by our own bodies. They travel around and bind to specific receptors, known as cannabinoid receptors, which are found throughout our body, including our brain, immune system, organs, and other tissues. Researchers have also discovered these endocannabinoids also bind to several other receptors.

When endocannabinoids bind to these receptors, they send signals that can affect things like pain sensation, mood, appetite, memory, sleep, immune function, and more. Essentially, the endocannabinoid system helps regulate these processes and keep our bodies in homeostasis.

In addition to the messengers and receptors, there are also enzymes that break down the endocannabinoids once their job is done. This ensures that the system remains balanced and doesn’t go into overdrive.

Interestingly, the endocannabinoid system can also interact with phytocannabinoids (also known as cannabinoids) found in the cannabis plant, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These cannabinoids can mimic the effects of our natural messengers – to an extent- or interact with the receptors in different ways, leading to various effects on the body and mind.

The endocannabinoid system itself can sometimes dysfunction, which refers to a situation where the natural balance and function of the endocannabinoid system is disrupted or not working properly. Think of it like a miscommunication or a glitch in the system. Just like any other system in our body, the ECS can sometimes experience problems that can affect its ability to regulate different functions normally. This is where supporting the ECS with phytocannabinoids, things like CBD, come into play. By supporting the ECS with chemicals that are similar to the chemicals the body produces or offering more, we can supplement the ECS to hopefully create balance once again.

Overview

Overview

Overview

There is a lot of interest for the use of CBD or various other phytocannabinoids for a whole host of conditions. For some things like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), cancer, and dermatological conditions there is some scientific evidence. Others like canine and feline cognitive disorder, stomatitis in cats and immune system related disease there is less scientific evidence but an abundance of anecdote and successful clinical experience. At Remedy, we are one of the few veterinary hospitals in the world that are prepared to have these conversations.

Long-term monitoring

We may suggest liver enzyme monitoring for patients that will be on the product long-term, >3 months.

Common drugs where interactions may occur

Benzodiazepines- This is one of the most common drugs we see potentiating effects of even zero percent THC products. Animals may appear extremely lethargic or have symptoms similar to THC intoxication. While the idea of our animals being “high” may seem funny to some it is very stressful and potentially dangerous to animals.

Gabapentin, Acepromazine, Tramadol, Phenobarbital and Trazodone (or other behavioral drugs)- in some patients you may see lethargy, inappetence, abnormal behaviors and in severe cases urination. Dose de-escalating or escalating over time is usually warranted for the small percentage of animals that may experience these symptoms.

Product quality

How the product is produced and the ingredients are of the upmost concern when using these types of products. Please see the “Choosing a Product” page.

Overview