BRIDGED PHENANTHRIDINES

Bridged phenanthridine compounds having the structure of formula I or of formula II are provided: These compounds are useful as cannabinoid receptor ligands and can be prepared as pharmaceutical compositions for the prophylaxis or treatment of a variety of diseases, disorders and conditions including inflammatory pain, visceral pain, postoperative pain, cancer pain, neuropathic pain, musculoskeletal pain, dysmenorrhea, menstrual pain, migraine, headache as well as inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, eczema, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and thyroiditis. The compounds can also be used in the treatment of skin disorders, lung disorders, ophthalmic disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disorders, as well as neurodegenerative, neuroinflammatory and certain psychiatric disorders.