The Use of Compounds Derived from Cannabis sativa in the Treatment of Epilepsy, Painful Conditions, and Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders

Int J Mol Sci. 2024 May 25;25(11):5749. doi: 10.3390/ijms25115749.

Abstract

Neurological disorders present a wide range of symptoms and challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Cannabis sativa, with its diverse chemical composition, offers potential therapeutic benefits due to its anticonvulsive, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Beyond cannabinoids, cannabis contains terpenes and polyphenols, which synergistically enhance its pharmacological effects. Various administration routes, including vaporization, oral ingestion, sublingual, and rectal, provide flexibility in treatment delivery. This review shows the therapeutic efficacy of cannabis in managing neurological disorders such as epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, psychiatric disorders, and painful pathologies. Drawing from surveys, patient studies, and clinical trials, it highlights the potential of cannabis in alleviating symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving overall quality of life for patients. Understanding the diverse therapeutic mechanisms of cannabis can open up possibilities for using this plant for individual patient needs.

Keywords: Cannabis sativa; cannabidiol; cannabis; neurological disorders; tetrahydrocannabinol.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics / chemistry
  • Analgesics / pharmacology
  • Analgesics / therapeutic use
  • Animals
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Cannabinoids / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoids / therapeutic use
  • Cannabis* / chemistry
  • Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / drug therapy
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Neuroprotective Agents / chemistry
  • Neuroprotective Agents / pharmacology
  • Neuroprotective Agents / therapeutic use
  • Pain / drug therapy
  • Plant Extracts / chemistry
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Cannabinoids
  • Plant Extracts
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • Analgesics