A 2022 scientific review published in Pharmacology examined the therapeutic potential of cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD), and prescription cannabinoid medications. Researchers evaluated clinical evidence involving purified cannabinoids, including CBD, dronabinol, and nabilone, as well as standardized cannabis extracts. The review found evidence supporting cannabinoid-based treatments for several medical conditions, including chronic pain, certain seizure disorders, muscle spasticity, appetite loss, and nausea and vomiting. These findings demonstrate that cannabinoids can have meaningful medical applications, although their effectiveness varies depending on the specific compound, formulation, and condition being treated.

The review also examined how cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain, appetite, neurological activity, and other physiological processes. Researchers discussed the potential of cannabinoids for neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction, and certain cancers. While laboratory and early clinical findings suggest possible benefits, the authors emphasized that evidence for these applications remains substantially weaker than for established cannabinoid-based medications.

The researchers concluded that cannabis-derived compounds offer legitimate therapeutic potential, but important distinctions exist between prescription cannabinoid medications and commercially available CBD oils or cannabis extracts. Pharmaceutical products have more standardized formulations and stronger clinical evidence for specific uses, while many over-the-counter preparations lack rigorous human testing. The review highlights the importance of additional clinical trials to establish effective dosages, long-term safety, and which cannabinoids are most appropriate for particular medica

Source: Legare CA, Raup-Konsavage WM, Vrana KE. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis, Cannabidiol, and Cannabinoid-Based Pharmaceuticals. Pharmacology. 2022;107(3–4):131–149.