INTRODUCTION
The Endocannabinoid System Tutorial  is based on sponsored symposia conducted by the North American Association for the Study of Obesity in Las Vegas, Nevada, and the American Diabetes Association in San Diego, California. Persons who attended these symposia are NOT eligible for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ for completing this activity.

These materials are the product of many years of rigorous clinical trial and academic research into the discovery and impact of the endocannabinoid (EC) system relative to its role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. After introducing the EC system, its physiologic functions are detailed, and the use of pharmacology to prevent its overstimulation is explained. Many of the studies discussed in this tutorial led to the development of a new pharmacologic agent that affects not only obesity but also the well-known multiple metabolic risk factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD).

In June 2006, European regulatory authorities granted marketing authorization to the first cannabinoid receptor blocker approved among European member countries for the treatment of obesity. This approval marks a significant step in the battle against not only obesity but also CVD, which may soon surpass infectious disease as the leading cause of worldwide morbidity and mortality.

The Discovery Institute of Medical Education designates this educational activity for a maximum of 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Please note that the course is accredited only for physicians (MD, DO, or equivalent). All other participants receive a certificate of completion.

Louis J. Aronne, MD, FACP   Clinical Professor of Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College Cornell University Director Comprehensive Weight Control Program New York-Presbyterian Hospital New York, New York