AB-001

AB-001 is a synthetic cannabinoid that was discovered by the team at the pharmaceutical company, Abbott Laboratories. It is a full agonist of the CB₁ receptor, which is found in the brain and central nervous system. This receptor is one of the two main types of cannabinoid receptors in the body, the other being the CB₂ receptor.

Chemistry

AB-001 is a member of the amide class of cannabinoids, which are known for their potent activity at the CB₁ receptor. The chemical structure of AB-001 includes a naphthoyl group, which is a common feature of many synthetic cannabinoids. This group is attached to an aminoalkylindazole group, which is a unique feature of AB-001 and a few other synthetic cannabinoids.

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Chemical structure of AB-001

Pharmacology

AB-001 acts as a full agonist at the CB₁ receptor, meaning it can fully activate this receptor. This is in contrast to partial agonists, which can only partially activate the receptor. The activity of AB-001 at the CB₁ receptor is believed to be responsible for its psychoactive effects.

Effects

The effects of AB-001 are similar to those of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. These effects can include relaxation, euphoria, and altered perception. However, as a synthetic cannabinoid, AB-001 can also have additional effects not seen with natural cannabinoids. These can include increased heart rate, anxiety, and in some cases, severe psychotic episodes.

Legal Status

The legal status of AB-001 varies by country. In many places, it is classified as a controlled substance due to its psychoactive effects and potential for abuse. However, in some countries, it is legal to possess and use AB-001 for research purposes.

See Also

• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Cannabinoid receptor
• Amide