2. Conclusion
In this context of medicinal cannabis as a therapy for diseases of the
nervous system, especially neurodegenerative diseases, the highlights
have been the cannabinoids, THC and CBD. Several strategies, involving
preclinical and clinical research, have reinforced the role of CBD in
neuroinflammation, neuroprotection and anti-apoptotic, antiepileptic, as
presented in this review. But, evidence on the molecular, cellular and
behavioral mechanisms resulting from its interaction with a complex
expanded endocannabinoid system requires further studies, particularly
in epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, diseases addressed
in this review.
Significant therapeutic effects of CBD have been observed for epilepsy
and Parkinson’s disease, while nabiximois has been a frequent option for
the treatment of multiple sclerosis and has been evaluated as a drug
that contributes to the reduction of spasticity [113]. Its role as a
CB2 receptor inverse agonist, AEA reuptake inhibitor and non-competitive
negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptor is known [178],
but a possible action of CBD in neutralizing the effects of THC has been
discussed and it is expected that such interaction mechanisms will be
addressed in future studies. In general, in some diseases CBD has shown
promising therapeutic benefits, but it is necessary to wait for the
evidence to come from more randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
studies that reach diverse populations.
Much research still needs to be done, requiring preclinical studies that
mimic the pathological conditions and double-blind, randomized,
placebo-controlled clinical trials so that robust data allow conclusions
based on scientific evidence.