Marijuana poisoning in dogs: clinical signs and treatment

Abstract

Intoxications by recreational drugs such as Cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, are increasingly present in veterinary care clinics. Cannabis contains over 500 different compounds and over 80 known cannabinoids; of these, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most psychoactive and responsible for most symptoms of intoxication. Cannabinoids are exogenous substances extracted from Cannabis and bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Among the most common clinical signs of intoxication in dogs are: agitation, ataxia, mydriasis, increased sensitivity to sound, hyperesthesia, drooling, neurological disorders, muscle spasms and acute onset of urinary incontinence. The diagnosis of marijuana intoxication is often difficult, mainly because tutors resist in admitting exposure to illicit drugs for fear of the legal implications. The Veterinarian must gain the trust of the animal’s tutor so that the diagnosis can be carried out early and the most appropriate treatment for the situation can be initiated. Treatment includes: clinical monitoring, supportive care, administration of intravenous fluids, administration of activated charcoal, induction of vomiting, administration of antiemetics, thermal support (warming/cooling), and blood pressure monitoring. Veterinarians are primarily responsible for the education of tutors in these circumstances, and it is of great importance to emphasize that tutors must keep toxic agents away from animal’s acess.