Endocannabinoids and the neurochemistry of gluttony.

Cannabis exerts its actions by mimicking 'endocannabinoid' neuromodulators at CB1 receptors in brain and peripheral tissues. The endocannabinoids both stimulate appetite by increasing food craving and enjoyment and promote the deposition of energy as fat in adipose tissues. These findings have raised the possibility of CB1 antagonists as a novel class of anti-obesity agents.