Please use this link to access this publication. Abstract Background: Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the major cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, is available over the counter. CBD is often used by patients for the management of insomnia, yet research supporting CBDs effectiveness as a treatment for insomnia is inadequate. Objective: The objective of this review was to critically evaluate the literature regarding the therapeutic benefits of CBD in the management of insomnia. Methods: A comprehensive search of the following databases from inception to December 29, 2021, was conducted: Ovid MEDLINE® and Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Daily, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Central...

Abstract Cannabinoids, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, have garnered increasing attention for their potential therapeutic applications in various diseases. The pharmacologically active compounds in Cannabis, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, exhibit diverse immunomodulatory properties. Although studies have explored the effects of cannabinoids on immune function, their specific interactions with the thymus, a primary immune organ critical for T-cell development and maturation, remain an intriguing area of investigation. As the thymus plays a fundamental role in shaping the immune repertoire, understanding the interplay between cannabinoids and thymic function may shed light on potential benefits or concerns associated with Cannabis-based therapies. This article aims to provide an overview of...

Abstract Introduction: There is growing recognition of the potential of cannabis to treat various medical conditions and symptoms, such as chronic pain, spasticity, and epilepsy. However, one of the biggest challenges is the assurance of a standardized cannabis product that contains a consistent amount of its main psychoactive substances delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and which is compliant with predetermined specifications for these compounds. This is crucial not only to ensure consistent cannabis quality and dosage for patients but also to effectively translate research findings into clinical practice. Methods: This systematic literature review provides an overview of the effects of standardized cannabis products from Bedrocan, a...

Abstract Chronic pain and mental health issues like depression and anxiety significantly contribute to disease burden in Western countries. While cannabinoids are suggested to have analgesic, anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, evidence, especially for long-term use, is inconclusive. This 12-month observational study evaluated the effects of prescribed medicinal cannabis for 96 patients suffering from pain, as well as sleep disturbances, depression and anxiety. Treatment outcomes for pain, depression, anxiety and sleep problems were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months using validated instruments. Significant reductions were observed in pain scores and the interference of pain on daily functions, alongside improvements in mental health and sleep....

Abstract Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD) exhibits multiple therapeutic properties, but its use in advanced cancer patients raises concerns about potential drug–drug interactions (DDIs) due to polypharmacy. This study aims to look for evidence of DDIs between concomitant medications and CBD oil in a randomized placebo-controlled trial of CBD oil for symptom control (MedCan-1 parent study). Materials and Methods: Surrogate measures were used to identify possible drug interactions: (1) the maximum mL of oil self-selected by patients in CBD or placebo groups in relation to opioids, specific drug groups, or individual agents; (2) the occurrence of any new or worse adverse effect in relation to the study arm...

Abstract Objective: Cannabinoid usage is widespread in the self-management of various medical ailments. However, adverse effects have been reported with use, especially pertaining to the gastrointestinal system in adults and aged patients. These range from nausea, vomiting, bloating, or abdominal pain. This systematic review of previously reported cannabis-induced gastrointestinal symptoms in the adult population from the literature provides an analysis of relevant data to enhance knowledge and awareness of this topic.Methods: PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases were searched for relevant studies published from inception to March 2023. Results: The search yielded 598 results, of which 13 were deemed relevant and underwent further...

Abstract Introduction:  The use of medicinal cannabis for managing pain expands, although its efficacy and safety have not been fully established through randomized controlled trials. Objectives:  This structured, prospective questionnaire-based cohort was aimed to assess long-term effectiveness and safety of cannabis oil extracts in patients with chronic pain. Methods:  Adult Israeli patients licensed to use cannabis oil extracts for chronic pain were followed prospectively for 6 months. The primary outcome measure was change from baseline in average weekly pain intensity, and secondary outcomes were changes in related symptoms and quality of life, recorded before treatment initiation and 1, 3, and 6 months thereafter. Generalized...

Abstract The prevalence of obesity and obesity-related pathologies is lower in frequent cannabis users compared to non-users. It is well established that the endocannabinoid system has an important role in the development of obesity. We recently demonstrated that prolonged oral consumption of purified Δ-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but not of cannabidiol (CBD), ameliorates diet-induced obesity and improves obesity-related metabolic complications in a high-fat diet mouse model. However, the effect of commercially available medical cannabis oils that contain numerous additional active molecules has not been examined. We tested herein the effects of THC- and CBD-enriched medical cannabis oils on obesity parameters and the gut microbiota composition...

Abstract The phytocomplex of Cannabis is made up of approximately 500 substances: terpeno-phenols metabolites, including Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, exhibit pharmacological activity. Medical Cannabis has several pharmacological potential applications, in particular in the management of chronic and neuropathic pain. In the literature, a few data are available concerning cannabis pharmacokinetics, efficacy and safety. Thus, aim of the present study was the evaluation of cannabinoid pharmacokinetics in a cohort of patients, with chronic and neuropathic pain, treated with inhaled medical cannabis and decoction, as a galenic preparation. In this study, 67 patients were enrolled. Dried flower tops with different THC and CBD concentrations were used: Bedrocan® medical cannabis with THC level standardized at 19% and with a CBD level below 1%,...

Abstract Background: One in five individuals live with chronic pain globally, which often co-occurs with sleep problems, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. Although these conditions are commonly managed with cannabinoid-based medicines (CBM), health care providers report lack of information on the risks, benefits, and appropriate use of CBM for therapeutic purposes. Aims: We present these clinical practice guidelines to help clinicians and patients navigate appropriate CBM use in the management of chronic pain and co-occurring conditions. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic review of studies investigating the use of CBM for the treatment of chronic pain. Articles were dually reviewed in accordance with Preferred Reporting...