Medical cannabinoids: a pharmacology-based systematic review and meta-analysis for all relevant medical indications

BMC Medicine logo

“Background: Medical cannabinoids differ in their pharmacology and may have different treatment effects. We aimed to conduct a pharmacology-based systematic review (SR) and meta-analyses of medical cannabinoids for efficacy, retention and adverse events.

Results: In total, 152 RCTs (12,123 participants) were analysed according to the type of the cannabinoid, outcome and comparator used, resulting in 84 comparisons. Significant therapeutic effects of medical cannabinoids show a large variability in the grade of evidence that depends on the type of cannabinoid. CBD has a significant therapeutic effect for epilepsy (SMD – 0.5[CI – 0.62, – 0.38] high grade) and Parkinsonism (- 0.41[CI – 0.75, – 0.08] moderate grade). There is moderate evidence for dronabinol for chronic pain (- 0.31[CI – 0.46, – 0.15]), appetite (- 0.51[CI – 0.87, – 0.15]) and Tourette (- 1.01[CI – 1.58, – 0.44]) and moderate evidence for nabiximols on chronic pain (- 0.25[- 0.37, – 0.14]), spasticity (- 0.36[CI – 0.54, – 0.19]), sleep (- 0.24[CI – 0.35, – 0.14]) and SUDs (- 0.48[CI – 0.92, – 0.04]). All other significant therapeutic effects have either low, very low, or even no grade of evidence. Cannabinoids produce different adverse events, and there is low to moderate grade of evidence for this conclusion depending on the type of cannabinoid.

Conclusions: Cannabinoids are effective therapeutics for several medical indications if their specific pharmacological properties are considered. We suggest that future systematic studies in the cannabinoid field should be based upon their specific pharmacology.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35982439/

“Cannabinoids are effective therapeutics for several medical indications if their specific pharmacological properties are considered. We suggest that future systematic studies in the cannabinoid field should be based upon their specific pharmacology.”

https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02459-1

Cannabinoid modulation of brain activation during volitional regulation of negative affect in trauma-exposed adults

Neuropharmacology

“Emotion dysregulation is considered a core component of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Cognitive reappraisal is one therapeutic emotion regulation strategy that has been widely studied among individuals with mood and anxiety disorders, and numerous differences in brain activation patterns have been shown between individuals with and without PTSD during tasks of cognitive reappraisal.

Prior research among healthy subjects suggests that an acute, low dose of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) could attenuate the neurophysiological discrepancies that exist between individuals with and without PTSD during tasks of emotional processing; however, the effect of an acute, low dose of THC on corticolimbic activity during emotion regulation among individuals with PTSD has not yet been studied.

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of THC on negative affect and brain activation in a priori regions of interest during cognitive reappraisal among trauma-exposed individuals with and without PTSD.

Using a double-blind design, 51 individuals were randomized to receive THC or placebo (PBO) before participating in a well-established emotion regulation task during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

THC but not PBO reduced negative affect during reappraisal, and THC increased dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) activation in response to neutral images. Individuals with PTSD displayed less activation in the angular gyrus, overall, compared to the trauma-exposed control (TEC) group, however THC increased angular gyrus activation in the PTSD group so that there was no significant difference in angular gyrus activation between the TEC and PTSD groups that received THC.

Compared to PBO, THC also increased cerebellar activation during exposure to neutral images in individuals with PTSD. Lastly, in participants that received THC, greater posterior cingulate cortex (PCC)/precuneus activation during reappraisal was associated with less self-reported negative affect following reappraisal blocks.

Together these findings suggest that THC may prove to be a beneficial pharmacological adjunct to cognitive reappraisal therapy in the treatment of PTSD.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35981598/

“Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) reduced negative affect during reappraisal.”

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028390822002817?via%3Dihub

Structural basis for cannabinoid-induced potentiation of alpha1-glycine receptors in lipid nanodiscs

Nature Communications

“Nociception and motor coordination are critically governed by glycine receptor (GlyR) function at inhibitory synapses. Consequentially, GlyRs are attractive targets in the management of chronic pain and in the treatment of several neurological disorders. High-resolution mechanistic details of GlyR function and its modulation are just emerging.

While it has been known that cannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive constituent in marijuana, potentiate GlyR in the therapeutically relevant concentration range, the molecular mechanism underlying this effect is still not understood.

Here, we present Cryo-EM structures of full-length GlyR reconstituted into lipid nanodisc in complex with THC under varying concentrations of glycine. The GlyR-THC complexes are captured in multiple conformational states that reveal the basis for THC-mediated potentiation, manifested as different extents of opening at the level of the channel pore.

Taken together, these structural findings, combined with molecular dynamics simulations and functional analysis, provide insights into the potential THC binding site and the allosteric coupling to the channel pore.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35982060/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-32594-5

γ-Terpinene complexed with β-cyclodextrin attenuates spinal neuroactivity in animals with cancer pain by Ca2+ channel block

Research - The Pharmaceutical Journal

“Objectives: Considering that γ-terpinene (γ-TPN) is a monoterpene found in Cannabis oil, with high lipophilicity and limited pharmacokinetics, our objective was to evaluate whether its complexation in β-cyclodextrin (γ-TPN/β-CD) could improve its physicochemical properties and action on cancer pain, as well as verify the mechanisms of action involved.

Results: β-CD improved the physicochemical properties and prolonged the anti-hyperalgesic effect of γ-TPN. This compound also reduced the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and iNOS in the tumour, and c-Fos protein in the spinal cord. In addition, it reduced Ca2+ current, presenting favourable chemical interactions with different voltage-dependent calcium channels.

Conclusion: These results indicate that the complexation of γ-TPN into β-CD increases its stability and time effect, reducing spinal neuroactivity and inflammation by blocking calcium channels.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35976257/#affiliation-2

https://academic.oup.com/jpp/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/jpp/rgac052/6670692?redirectedFrom=fulltext&login=false

Pharmacophore-based virtual screening from phytocannabinoids as antagonist r-CB1

SpringerLink

“Search for new pharmacological alternatives for obesity is based on the design and development of compounds that can aid in weight loss so that they can be used safely and effectively over a long period while maintaining their function.

The endocannabinoid system is related to obesity by increasing orexigenic signals and reducing satiety signals.

Cannabis sativa is a medicinal plant of polypharmaceutical potential that has been widely studied for various medicinal purposes.

The in silico evaluation of their natural cannabinoids (also called phytocannabinoids) for anti-obesity purpose stems from the existence of synthetic cannabinoid compounds that have already presented this result, but which did not guarantee patient safety.

In order to find new molecules from C. sativa phytocannabinoids, with the potential to interact peripherally with the pharmacological target cannabinoid receptor 1, a pharmacophore-based virtual screening was performed, including the evaluation of physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, toxicological predictions and molecular docking.

The results obtained from the ZINC12 database pointed to Zinc 69 (ZINC33053402) and Zinc 70 (ZINC19084698) molecules as promising anti-obesity agents. Molecular dynamics (MD) studies disclose that both complexes were stable by analyzing the RMSD (root mean square deviation) values, and the binding free energy values demonstrate that the selected structures can interact and inhibit their catalytic activity.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35978141/

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00894-022-05219-3

The Endocannabinoid System and Eating Behaviours: a Review of the Current State of the Evidence

SpringerLink

“Purpose of the review: The endocannabinoid system (ENS) has emerged as an important factor in food intake and may have implications for nutrition research. The objective of the current report is to summarise the available evidence on the ENS and eating behaviour from both animal and human studies.

Recent findings: The literature reviewed demonstrates a clear link between the ENS and eating behaviours. Overall, studies indicate that 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) via cannabinoid receptor-1 (CNR1) binding may stimulate hunger and food intake while oleylethanolamide (OEA) may inhibit hunger. Mechanisms of these associations are not yet well understood, although the evidence suggests that there may be interactions with other physiological systems to consider. Most studies have been conducted in animal models, with few human studies available. Additional research is warranted among human populations into the ENS and eating behaviour. Evaluation of relationships between variation in ENS genes and dietary outcomes is an important area for investigation.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35980538/

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13668-022-00436-x

Cannabidiol Inhibits Inflammation Induced by Cutibacterium acnes-Derived Extracellular Vesicles via Activation of CB2 Receptor in Keratinocytes

“Background: Acne is a common inflammatory skin disease, while cannabidiol (CBD) is a representative non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid which has been proved to exert universal anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to explore the effect of CBD on acne inflammation induced by Cutibacterium acnes-derived extracellular vesicles (CEVs) in keratinocytes and reveal the underlying mechanisms.

Results: The expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α) in CEVs-stimulated NHEKs was suppressed by CBD. CB2 receptor expression was upregulated by CBD, whereas CEVs-promoted TRPV1 expression was downregulated by CBD. AM630 reversed TNF-α levels inhibited by CBD. Capsazepine exerted an inhibitory effect on CEVs-induced inflammation and had synergistic effect with CBD. The phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and NF-κB p65 and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 were induced by CEVs but reduced by CBD.

Conclusion: The results indicated that CBD could inhibit inflammation induced by CEVs in NHEKs, which was mediated by activation of CB2 receptor and enhanced by the TRPV1 antagonist, through inactivation of the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. CBD might be a potential novel strategy for acne treatment in the future.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35982758/

“In conclusion, our results provided the evidence that CBD exerted an inhibitory effect on acne inflammation in keratinocytes induced by CEVs, which was mediated by CB2 receptor and through inactivating the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. The TRPV1 antagonist Capsazepine had synergistic effect with CBD, but whether TRPV1 directly mediated the anti-inflammatory action of CBD still remains to be confirmed. Besides, the regulatory effect of CB2 receptor and TRPV1 on the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways in the acne model should also be further unraveled. Despite several limitations above, our study proposes the anti-acne property of CBD and a potent novel therapeutic approach for acne.”

https://www.dovepress.com/cannabidiol-inhibits-inflammation-induced-by-cutibacterium-acnes-deriv-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JIR

Cannabidiol and epilepsy in Brazil: a current review

SciELO - Wikipedia

“Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a promising therapeutic option in the treatment of epilepsy. Recent studies provide robust evidence that CBD is effective and safe. Limitations in current knowledge and regulatory issues still limit CBD use. CBD use regarding epilepsy types still lacks clear guidelines.

Objective: To critically review the main current pharmacological features and clinical issues regarding CBD use in epilepsy, to provide current regulatory background regarding CBD use in Brazil, and to suggest a practical CBD therapeutic guide in Brazil.

Methods: Non-systematic literature review (up to February 2022) of current concepts of CBD and epilepsy, including the authors’ personal experience.

Results: Five pivotal trials have led to CBD approval as an adjunctive treatment for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes, and for the tuberous sclerosis complex. Efficacy of CBD in other drug-resistant epilepsies remains not completely understood. CBD adverse event profile and drug interactions are better understood. CBD is well tolerated. In Brazil, CBD is not classified as a medication, but as a product subject to a distinct regulatory legislation. CBD is still not offered by the National Brazilian health system, but can be purchased in authorized pharmacies or imported under prescription and signed informed consent.

Conclusion: CBD is a recognized novel treatment for epilepsy. Future well-designed studies and public health strategies are needed to offer widespread access to CBD, and to improve the quality of life of people living with epilepsy in Brazil.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35976327/

“In conclusion, epilepsy burden, especially medically refractory epilepsy, affects patients and families, particularly for medically refractory epilepsy. CBD offers hope in treating epilepsy. Current evidence demonstrates efficacy and safety in prescribing CBD for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.”

https://www.scielo.br/j/anp/a/Hw3WJKnhvbxvdCqxc9tNDNd/?lang=en

Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs

Archive of "Frontiers in Veterinary Science". - PMC

“The use of cannabidiol (CBD) in childhood refractory seizures has become a common therapeutic approach for specific seizure disorders in human medicine. Similarly, there is an interest in using CBD, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) or cannabinoid-rich hemp products in the treatment of idiopathic epilepsy in dogs.

We aimed to examine a small cohort in a pilot investigation using a CBD and CBDA-rich hemp product for the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs.

Fourteen dogs were examined in a 24-week randomized cross-over study being provided placebo or CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract treatment at 2 mg/kg orally every 12 h for each 12-week arm of the study. Serum chemistry, complete blood counts, serum anti-seizure medication (ASM) concentrations and epileptic seizure frequency were followed over both arms of the cross-over trial.

Results demonstrated that besides a mild increase in alkaline phosphatase, there were no alterations observed on routine bloodwork at 2, 6, and 12 weeks during either arm of the study.

Epileptic seizure frequency decreased across the population from a mean of 8.0 ± 4.8 during placebo treatment to 5.0 ± 3.6 with CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract (P = 0.02). In addition, epileptic seizure event days over the 12 weeks of CBD/CBDA-rich hemp treatment were 4.1 ± 3.4, which was significantly different than during the 12 weeks of placebo treatment (5.8 ± 3.1; P =0.02). The number of dogs with a 50% reduction in epileptic activity while on treatment were 6/14, whereas 0/14 had reductions of 50% or greater while on the placebo (P = 0.02).

No differences were observed in serum zonisamide, phenobarbital or bromide concentrations while on the treatment across groups. Adverse events were minimal, but included somnolence (3/14) and transient increases in ataxia (4/14) during CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract treatment; this was not significantly different from placebo. This further indicates that providing CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract during refractory epilepsy (only partially responsive to ASM), in conjunction with other ASM appears safe.

Based on this information, the use of 2 mg/kg every 12 h of a CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract can have benefits in reducing the incidence of epileptic seizures, when used concurrently with other ASMs.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35967998/

“Since the 1970’s or earlier, cannabinoids have been found to have anti-epileptic effects in animal seizure models. In conclusion, there appears to be a population of dogs that respond favorably to CBD/CBDA-rich hemp products for epileptic seizure reduction similar to other human, dog and rodent data.”

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.939966/full

Anticancer activity of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol in vitro and in human lung cancer xenograft

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine

“Objective: To investigate the effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the principal psychoactive compound of Cannabis sativa, and cannabinol, a Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol degradative product, on human non-small cell lung cancer cells.
Methods: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol were tested for anticancer activity in human non-small cell lung cancer (A549) cells. The effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and phosphorylation profiles were examined. The effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol on tumor growth were also investigated using a xenograft nude mouse model. Apoptosis and targeted phosphorylation were verified by immunohistochemistry.
Results: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol significantly inhibited cell proliferation and increased the number of apoptotic cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol- and cannabinol-treated cells had lower levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B [AKT (S473)], glycogen synthase kinase 3 alpha/beta, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase compared to the controls. The study of xenograft mice revealed that tumors treated with 15 mg/kg Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol or 40 mg/kg cannabinol were significantly smaller than those of the control mice. The tumor progression rates in mice treated with 15 mg/kg Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol or 40 mg/kg cannabinol were significantly slower than in the control group.
Conclusions: These findings indicate that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol inhibit lung cancer cell growth by inhibiting AKT and its signaling pathways, which include glycogen synthase kinase 3 alpha/beta and endothelial nitric oxide synthase.”

https://journals.lww.com/aptb/fulltext/2022/12080/anticancer_activity_of__9_tetrahydrocannabinol_and.1.aspx