What's new in cannabinoid science and clinical research?
Cannabis and cannabinoids are substances that humans have been in contact with for centuries. However, we know relatively little about its potential applications in modern medicine. Much of the data that exists is for older patients and those who have suffered chronic conditions for many years. In recent years CBD has rapidly become a popular area of medical study for several reasons. First, it does not produce a high in patients who use it, nor does it cause any symptoms of chemical dependency. A low potential for abuse or addiction makes it highly promising.
Because CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoid extract have only relatively recently entered the medical mainstream, there are still many unanswered questions to be explored. As time advances, medical research into CBD and cannabinoids is uncovering how to reduce side effects and ensure safety when cannabis extracts are used alongside conventional medication.
The following studies focused on CBD and cannabinoid science are the latest to emerge, and are well-worth following on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Currently Ongoing Clinical Research
January 28, 2022
Assessing the Effects of a Cannabidiol Derived From Hemp Supplement in Healthy Adults
Sponsor: University of South Carolina | Collaborator: CBD Industries, LLC | Follow This Research
ABSTRACT: Cannabis contains several phyto-cannabinoids among which Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are most widely known. THC is the main compound responsible for the psychoactive properties and also deemed responsible for several side-effects associated with cannabis. CBD, on the other hand, is not a strong cannabinoid receptor agonist and lacks psychotropic activity. However, due to its affinity for several other target sites, it is being studied for potential pharmacological properties. The diverse range of interactions at different receptor sites in the human body is believed to be responsible for therapeutic efficacy of CBD in treating kidney fibrosis, metabolic syndrome, anorexia, obesity, amelioration of osteoarthritis as well as several other musculoskeletal diseases. Recent research has also explored the use of CBD to relieve stress and depression, likely due to its agonistic influence on the 5-HT3 receptors as well as improving hippocampal neural growth and development. CBD has also been studied for its anti-oxidant activity, deemed on-par to that of Vitamin C in laboratory studies. The effect of CBD on inflammation and the immune system has been studied. The sedative effects of CBD have been investigated for the potential use of CBD as an anxiolytic and to improve mood as well as sleep. Recent studies have also explored the analgesic and pain-relieving properties of CBD, making it a suitable candidate that needs further investigations. Interestingly, a recent systematic review explored the use of CBD in viral diseases, with several pre-clinical studies indicating CBD as an effective candidate against viral disease. This research will also help to understand any safety issues with the long-term regular use of CBD on healthy adults. Therefore, this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study will be conducted to explore the physiologic, biochemical, and psychometric impacts of a brand-specific hemp-derived CBD product in healthy adults.
January 20, 2022
Cannabidiol inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication through induction of the host ER stress and innate immune responses
ABSTRACT: The spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic underscores the need for new treatments. Here, we report that cannabidiol (CBD) inhibits infection of SARS-CoV-2 in cells and mice. CBD and its metabolite 7-OH-CBD, but not THC or other congeneric cannabinoids tested, potently block SARS-CoV-2 replication in lung epithelial cells. CBD acts after viral entry, inhibiting viral gene expression and reversing many effects of SARS-CoV-2 on host gene transcription. CBD inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication in part by up-regulating the host IRE1α ribonuclease endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response and interferon signaling pathways. In matched groups of human patients from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative, CBD (100 mg/ml oral solution per medical records) had a significant negative association with positive SARS-CoV-2 tests. This study highlights CBD as a potential preventative agent for early-stage SARS-CoV-2 infection and merits future clinical trials. We caution against current use of non-medical formulations as a preventative or treatment therapy.
December 3, 2021
Evaluation of the Interactions of Cannabidiol (CBD) With Morphine
Sponsor: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) | Follow This Research November 3, 2021
Effect of Medical Cannabis for Non-motor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Sponsor: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) | Follow This Research October 13, 2021
Safety of Cannabidiol Given to Subject With Methadone or Buprenorphine
Sponsor: Yale University | Follow This Research October 4, 2021
Cannabidiol for Reduction of Brain Neuroinflammation (CBD)
Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital | Follow This Research September 16, 2021
Assessment of Potential for Chronic Liver Injury in Participants Treated With Epidiolex (Cannabidiol) Oral Solution
Sponsor: Jazz Pharmaceuticals | Follow This Research
The Effects of Cannabidiol and Homotaurine in Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Sponsor: Aristotle University Of Thessaloniki | Follow This Research August 6, 2021
Cannabinoid Tablets for the Treatment of Pain From Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Sponsor: Pure Green | Follow This Research July 27, 2021
Clinical Study of Cannabidiol in Children and Adolescents With Fragile X Syndrome
Sponsor: Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Follow This Research June 2, 2021
Therapeutic Response of Cannabidiol in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles | Follow This Research May 11, 2021
CBD, Immune Function, and Neural Health
Sponsor: University of Northern Colorado | Follow This Research