Intoxication of a canine by ingestion of Cannabis sativa

Abstract

Cannabis sativa, popularly known as "marijuana", is a plant that has high solubility, absorption, distribution and metabolization in the body. Its main chemical component is the psychoactive substance delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, which has receptors with wide anatomical distribution, mainly in the central, peripheral nervous system and cells of the immune system, influencing the action of different neurotransmitters and immunomodulatory responses. Its effects depend on the amount of substance ingested and the clinical signs mainly affect the neurological, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. The objective of this work is to report the case of a canine, female, mixed breed, two months old, followed up at a veterinary clinic in Fortaleza / CE. The animal had a history of marijuana ingestion, and clinical signs such as ataxia, hyperesthesia and disorientation, thus making the presumptive diagnosis based on anamnesis, physical and laboratory examination. A symptomatic treatment based on fluid therapy, furosemide and L-Ornithine aspartate was adopted. The animal was hospitalized for 24 hours, presented a good response to treatment without secondary complications with reduced clinical signs, and after that he was discharged.