Abstract Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may lead to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which, in turn, may be associated with multiple organ dysfunction. In this review, we present advantages and disadvantages of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant, as a potential agent for the treatment of COVID-19. CBD has been shown to downregulate proteins responsible for viral entry and to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against diseases of the respiratory system as well as its cardioprotective, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant properties, that is, effects that may be beneficial for COVID-19. Only the latter...

Introduction Cannabinoid preparations are available across the globe as regulatory agency-approved medicines, through medical cannabis programs, and as hemp-derived products. Many regions, including most provinces in Canada, have designated cannabis businesses as ‘‘essential’’ services during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and sales of cannabis remain strong in an otherwise economically challenging time. In light of the potential increased use of cannabis and a recent surge in research to rapidly identify medications to treat COVID-19, it is critical to delineate possible pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) drug–drug interactions (DDIs) between cannabinoids and such experimental medications. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are lipophilic, highly protein...