Impact of the mouse estrus cycle on cannabinoid receptor agonist‐induced molecular and behavioral outcomes

Abstract Sexual dimorphisms are observed in cannabinoid pharmacology. It is widely reported that female animals are more sensitive to the cataleptic, hypothermic, antinociceptive, and anti‐locomotive effects of cannabinoid receptor agonists such as CP55,940. Despite awareness of these sex differences, there is little consideration for the pharmacodynamic differences within females. The mouse estrus cycle spans 4–5 days and consists of four sex hormone‐mediated phases: proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus. The endocannabinoid system interacts with female sex hormones including β‐estradiol, which may