The endocannabinoid signalling system: Implications for anaesthesia and the pain clinic

Cannabinoids have the potential to interact with a number of drugs that are used in clinical anaesthetic practice, while in turn anaesthetic agents may produce their effects through modulation of the endocannabinoid signalling system. Herein, we briefly review the discovery, pharmacological actions and putative physiological functions of endocannabinoids. We then discuss some of these finding in relation to anaesthesia in order to identify therapeutic potentials, highlight specific problems and stimulate further debate.