Reduction of dependence to cannabinoids by GLT-1 activating property of the beta-lactam antibiotic.

Since GLT-1 transporters play the key role in terminating synaptic transmission of glutamate, drugs stimulating GLT-1 expression are expected to offer neuroprotection. Of these, beta-lactam antibiotics have been suggested to contribute to various central nervous system disorders, including development of tolerance and dependence to opioids, and tolerance to cannabinoids. Opioids and cannabinoids share many pharmacological properties. All together, it can be hypothesized that beta-lactam antibiotics may reduce the development of dependence to cannabinoids through activating GLT-1.