Rimonabant - the Anti-Marijuana
Rimonabant (SR141716), a selective CB1 receptor antagonist and inhibits the receptor binding of THC. It's effects are therefore an interesting set of opposites to those of THC. In particular, Rimonabant acts as an appetite suppressant. Because of this property Rimonabant was marketed in Europe under the proprietary name Acomplia as an anti-obesity drug. It was also indicated for use in smoking cessation. However, Rimonabant was subsequently found to lead to increased rates of depression and suicidal ideation. In October 2008, the European Medicines Agency recommended doctors not prescribe the drug due to the risk of serious psychiatric problems and even suicide. The drug was then taken off the market.
