British journal of pharmacology
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Hyperdynamic circulation and mesenteric hyperaemia are found in cirrhosis. To delineate the role of endocannabinoids in these changes, we examined the cardiovascular effects of anandamide, AM251 (CB(1) antagonist), AM630 (CB(2) antagonist) and capsazepine (VR1 antagonist), in a rat model of cirrhosis. ⋯ These data suggest that endocannabinoids contribute to hyperdynamic circulation and mesenteric hyperaemia in cirrhosis, via CB(1)- and VR1-mediated mechanisms.