Cbd effects
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Effects of Cannabidiol (CBD): A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to Cannabidiol (CBD)
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that has garnered significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. Unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a "high," making it an attractive option for medical use. This article synthesizes current research on the effects of CBD, focusing on its therapeutic benefits, adverse effects, and interactions with THC.
Therapeutic Benefits of CBD
Neuroprotective and Antiepileptic Properties
CBD has shown promise in treating various neurological conditions. It exhibits neuroprotective and antiepileptic properties by modulating several receptors, including CB1, CB2, GPR55, TRPV, and PPARγ 2. The FDA-approved drug Epidiolex, which contains purified CBD, is used to treat refractory epileptic syndromes such as Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes 5.
Anxiolytic and Antipsychotic Effects
CBD has demonstrated anxiolytic and antipsychotic properties, making it a potential treatment for anxiety and psychotic disorders. Neuroimaging studies have shown that CBD can modulate brain activity, particularly in areas related to emotional processing and cognitive functions 7. It has been found to reduce anxiety and improve mental sedation by affecting the limbic and paralimbic brain regions 9.
Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects
CBD also exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It can reduce the expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and down-regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, although high concentrations may increase ROS-related gene expression 6. These properties make CBD a potential treatment for conditions involving chronic pain and inflammation.
Adverse Effects of CBD
Mild to Moderate Adverse Effects
Most studies indicate that CBD is generally well-tolerated, with mild to moderate adverse effects. Common side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, vomiting, and somnolence 45. These effects are usually dose-dependent and more pronounced at higher doses.
Serious Adverse Effects and Drug Interactions
While serious adverse effects (SAEs) are rare, they can occur, particularly when CBD is used in conjunction with other medications. Elevated transaminases, convulsions, sedation, lethargy, and upper respiratory tract infections have been reported, especially when CBD is combined with antiepileptic drugs like valproate and clobazam 14. Monitoring is essential for patients using CBD alongside other medications to avoid potential drug-drug interactions.
Interaction with THC
Modulation of THC Effects
CBD can influence the acute effects of THC, although findings are mixed. Some studies suggest that CBD can reduce THC-induced anxiety and psychosis-like effects, while others indicate no significant impact 3. The interaction between CBD and THC appears to be dose-dependent, with low doses of CBD potentially enhancing THC's intoxicating effects and high doses reducing them 10.
Safety and Tolerability
In healthy volunteers, CBD has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated, with no significant differences in symptomatic or physiological variables compared to placebo 8. This contrasts with THC, which is associated with anxiety, dysphoria, and increased heart rate.
Conclusion
CBD offers a range of therapeutic benefits, including neuroprotective, antiepileptic, anxiolytic, antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. While generally well-tolerated, it can cause mild to moderate adverse effects and has the potential for serious adverse effects when combined with other medications. CBD's interaction with THC is complex and dose-dependent, necessitating careful consideration in both medical and recreational contexts. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term safety and efficacy of CBD, particularly in diverse patient populations.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Serious adverse effects of cannabidiol (CBD): a review of randomized controlled trials
CBD has rare serious adverse effects, mainly elevated transaminases, convulsions, sedation, lethargy, and upper respiratory tract infections, which may be related to drug-drug interactions.
Systematic ReviewA narrative review of molecular mechanism and therapeutic effect of cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD exhibits multiple therapeutic effects, including neuroprotective, antiepileptic, anxiolytic, antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anticancer properties, and may help treat or prevent COVID-19 and its complications.
Literature Review
Highly CitedHow does cannabidiol (CBD) influence the acute effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in humans? A systematic review
CBD may reduce some acute effects of THC, such as anxiety and psychosis-like effects, but its effects vary across studies and outcomes.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedAdverse effects of cannabidiol: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
CBD is well-tolerated and has few serious adverse effects, but interactions with other medications should be monitored.
Meta-Analysis
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedCannabidiol Adverse Effects and Toxicity
CBD has proven therapeutic efficacy for serious conditions like Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes, but its use should be based on a careful consideration of adverse effects and potential drug-drug interactions.
Systematic Review
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedBiological effects of Cannabidiol on normal human healthy cell populations: Systematic review of the literature.
CBD inhibits cell viability, migration, and proliferation, but has anti-inflammatory effects, with high doses causing apoptosis.
Systematic ReviewRigorous JournalThe Impact of Cannabidiol on Human Brain Function: A Systematic Review
Acute CBD alters brain activity and connectivity patterns during resting state and cognitive tasks in both healthy volunteers and patients with psychiatric disorders, potentially reflecting its therapeutic effects.
Systematic ReviewAcute effects of a single, oral dose of d9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) administration in healthy volunteers.
THC has marked acute behavioral and physiological effects, while CBD is safe and well-tolerated in healthy volunteers.
RCTHighly CitedEffects of Cannabidiol (CBD) on Regional Cerebral Blood Flow
CBD has anxiolytic properties, mediated by actions on limbic and paralimbic brain areas, suggesting its potential therapeutic use for anxiety and depression.
RCTRigorous JournalHighly CitedA randomised controlled trial of vaporised Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol alone and in combination in frequent and infrequent cannabis users: acute intoxication effects
Low doses of CBD combined with THC can enhance intoxication, while high doses reduce it, with infrequent cannabis users particularly affected by this effect.
RCTRigorous JournalHighly Cited