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Pharmaceuticals
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Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives
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Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives

A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 February 2025 | Viewed by 10964

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Priscila Mazzola

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-871, Brazil
Interests: drug delivery; natural products; photoprotection; product development; topical delivery; transdermal products
Prof. Dr. José Luiz Costa

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-871, Brazil
Interests: toxicology; analytical toxicology; forensic and clinical toxicology; mass spectrometry; chromatography

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest research developments in the field of medical cannabis and its derivatives. It will explore the various medical applications of cannabis and its compounds, including CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids. It will also examine the potential risks and benefits associated with medical cannabis use, as well as the legal and regulatory challenges surrounding its use.

Topics:

The Special Issue will comprise original research articles, reviews, and case reports covering a range of topics related to medical cannabis and its derivatives, including, but not limited to, the following:

  • The pre-clinical and clinical pharmacology and therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in different medical conditions;
  • The role of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease and how cannabis-derived compounds can interact with this system;
  • The development and testing of cannabis-based pharmaceuticals, including clinical trials and regulatory issues;
  • The use of medical cannabis in specific population groups, such as pediatric patients, including the potential risks and benefits;
  • Delivery systems of cannabis extracts and/or their components, including studies employing traditional and modern alternatives.

Dr. Priscila Mazzola
Prof. Dr. José Luiz Costa
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmaceuticals is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • medicinal cannabis
  • cannabidiol
  • tetrahydrocannabinol
  • dosing
  • drug delivery

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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50 pages, 5400 KiB  
Article
Hemp Extract (Extractum Cannabis) in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Distress and Dyspepsia: Historical Insights from Barcelona, Spain
by Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli and Josep Allué Creus
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(12), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17121585 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 500
Abstract
This study explores the trajectory of interest in and use of Extractum Cannabis (hemp extract, i.e., extract of Cannabis sativa L.) for the symptomatic treatment of minor gastrointestinal distress and dyspepsia in nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) prior to 1939, through [...] Read more.
This study explores the trajectory of interest in and use of Extractum Cannabis (hemp extract, i.e., extract of Cannabis sativa L.) for the symptomatic treatment of minor gastrointestinal distress and dyspepsia in nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) prior to 1939, through a review of primary sources. The objective of this paper is to present a historical pharmaceutical and applied review of the medical use of the hemp genus (Cannabis L.) prior to its prohibition, thereby contributing to its recognition as a medicinal product. The information provided demonstrates evidence of the medicinal use of cannabis within the historical context studied. The interactions between this legacy medical use and the contemporary body of pharmacological and toxicological knowledge (on hemp, its constituents, and the endocannabinoid system in gastrointestinal and stomach disorders) are discussed, providing new possible clinical perspectives. Within its limitations—including the scope, limited accessibility to, and varying quality of archives—this research contributes to a more granular understanding of the historical embeddedness of psychoactive hemp medicines in northeastern Spain, suggesting that medical and pharmaceutical traditions could play a role in informing contemporary approaches to “medical marijuana”. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives)
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13 pages, 4202 KiB  
Article
Using In Silico Molecular Docking to Explain Differences in Receptor Binding Behavior of HHC and THCV Isomers: Revealing New Binding Modes
by Mehdi Haghdoost, Yossef López de los Santos, Megan Brunstetter, Morgan L. Ferretti, Matthew Roberts and Marcel O. Bonn-Miller
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050637 - 15 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2768
Abstract
Even slight structural differences between phytocannabinoid isomers are usually enough to cause a change in their biological properties. In this study, we used in vitro CB1 agonism/antagonism assays to compare the receptor binding functionality of THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) and HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) isomers and applied [...] Read more.
Even slight structural differences between phytocannabinoid isomers are usually enough to cause a change in their biological properties. In this study, we used in vitro CB1 agonism/antagonism assays to compare the receptor binding functionality of THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) and HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) isomers and applied molecular docking to provide an explanation for the difference in the activities. No CB1 agonism was observed for ∆9- and ∆8-THCV. Instead, both isomers antagonized CP 55940, with ∆9-THCV being approximately two times more potent than the ∆8 counterpart (IC50 = 52.4 nM and 119.6 nM for ∆9- and ∆8-THCV, respectively). Docking simulations found two binding poses for THCV isomers, one very similar to ∆9-THC and one newly discovered pose involving the occupation of side pocket 1 of the CB1 receptor by the alkyl chain of the ligand. We suggested the latter as a potential antagonist pose. In addition, our results established 9R-HHC and 9S-HHC among partial agonists of the CB1 receptor. The 9R-HHC (EC50 = 53.4 nM) isomer was a significantly more potent agonist than 9S (EC50 = 624.3 nM). ∆9-THC and 9R-HHC showed comparable binding poses inside the receptor pocket, whereas 9S-HHC adopted a new and different binding posture that can explain its weak agonist activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives)
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15 pages, 2403 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Sex Differences in Efficacy, Safety and Pharmacokinetics in Patients Treated with Cannabis by a Metered-Dose Inhaler
by Joshua Aviram, Marek Glezerman, Eytan Hayam, Rostislav Belobrov, Shiri Procaccia, David Meiri and Elon Eisenberg
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(10), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16101426 - 8 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1845
Abstract
Background: Clinical studies on medical cannabis (MC) treatment have shown sex-related differences, including higher susceptibility to adverse events among women and greater analgesia among men. Here, we used the Syqe metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and a single chemovar to analyze sex differences. Methods: A [...] Read more.
Background: Clinical studies on medical cannabis (MC) treatment have shown sex-related differences, including higher susceptibility to adverse events among women and greater analgesia among men. Here, we used the Syqe metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and a single chemovar to analyze sex differences. Methods: A total of 1249 Israeli chronic pain patients were assessed for pain intensity, sleep and adverse events (AEs) over 240 days. Results: Following the first two weeks, no significant sex differences were found in the effectiveness or safety of MC treatment (p > 0.05). Inhaled Δ9-THC doses did not vary significantly between sexes (p > 0.05) except in the first month of treatment. Pain reduction and sleep improvement were similar for both sexes (p > 0.05). The overall rate of AEs was equal and relatively low at 10% (n = 65, 10% of women and n = 60, 10% of men; χ2 (1) = 0.05, p = 0.820). A secondary analysis of pharmacokinetic data showed no significant differences between sexes in Δ9-THC and its metabolite pharmacokinetics, cardiovascular measures, or AE severity (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Uniform MC treatment via the Syqe MDI showed no sex differences in short-term effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics, nor in long-term effects, under “real-life” conditions. These findings provide insights into MC treatment which may inform clinical practice and policy-making in the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives)
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Review

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16 pages, 561 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review and Update on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome
by Priyadarshini Loganathan, Mahesh Gajendran and Hemant Goyal
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(11), 1549; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17111549 - 18 Nov 2024
Viewed by 836
Abstract
Cannabis, derived from Cannabis sativa plants, is a prevalent illicit substance in the United States, containing over 400 chemicals, including 100 cannabinoids, each affecting the body’s organs differently upon ingestion. Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a gut–brain axis disorder characterized by recurring nausea [...] Read more.
Cannabis, derived from Cannabis sativa plants, is a prevalent illicit substance in the United States, containing over 400 chemicals, including 100 cannabinoids, each affecting the body’s organs differently upon ingestion. Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a gut–brain axis disorder characterized by recurring nausea and vomiting intensified by excessive cannabis consumption. CHS often goes undiagnosed due to inconsistent criteria, subjective symptoms, and similarity to cyclical vomiting syndrome (CVS). Understanding the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its dual response (pro-emetic at higher doses and anti-emetic at lower doses) is crucial in the pathophysiology of CHS. Recent research noted that type 1 cannabinoid receptors in the intestinal nerve plexus exhibit an inhibitory effect on gastrointestinal motility. At the same time, the thermoregulatory function of endocannabinoids might explain compulsive hot bathing in CHS patients. The prevalence of cannabis CHS is expected to rise as legal restrictions on its recreational use decrease in several states. Education and awareness are vital in diagnosing and treating CHS as its prevalence increases. This comprehensive review explores the ECS’s involvement, CHS management approaches, and knowledge gaps to enhance understanding of this syndrome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives)
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26 pages, 959 KiB  
Review
Evidence of Cannabidiol Effectiveness Associated or Not with Tetrahydrocannabinol in Topical Administration: A Scope Review
by Ana Laura Masquetti Fava, Cinthia Madeira de Souza, Érica Mendes dos Santos, Luiza Aparecida Luna Silvério, Janaína Artem Ataide, Ana Cláudia Paiva-Santos, Jose Luiz Costa, Daniela Oliveira de Melo and Priscila Gava Mazzola
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 748; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060748 - 6 Jun 2024
Viewed by 2238
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is a plant of the Cannabaceae family, whose molecular composition is known for its vast pharmacological properties. Cannabinoids are the molecules responsible for Cannabis sativa potential effects, especially tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol. Scientific development has shown interest in the potential of cannabidiol [...] Read more.
Cannabis sativa is a plant of the Cannabaceae family, whose molecular composition is known for its vast pharmacological properties. Cannabinoids are the molecules responsible for Cannabis sativa potential effects, especially tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol. Scientific development has shown interest in the potential of cannabidiol in various health conditions, as it has demonstrated lower adverse events and great pharmacological potential, especially when administered topically. The present study aims to carry out a scoping review, focusing on the use of cannabidiol, in vivo models, for topical administration. Thus, the methodological approach used by the Joanna Briggs Institute was applied, and the studies were selected based on previously established inclusion criteria. Even though more information regarding the dose to achieve pharmacological potential is still needed, cannabidiol demonstrated potential in treating and preventing different conditions, such as glaucoma, atopic dermatitis, epidermolysis bullosa, and pyoderma gangrenosum. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives)
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27 pages, 928 KiB  
Review
Herbal Cannabis and Depression: A Review of Findings Published over the Last Three Years
by Jozsef Haller
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060689 - 27 May 2024
Viewed by 1397
Abstract
Public perception contrasts scientific findings on the depression-related effects of cannabis. However, earlier studies were performed when cannabis was predominantly illegal, its production was mostly uncontrolled, and the idea of medical cannabis was incipient only. We hypothesized that recent changes in attitudes and [...] Read more.
Public perception contrasts scientific findings on the depression-related effects of cannabis. However, earlier studies were performed when cannabis was predominantly illegal, its production was mostly uncontrolled, and the idea of medical cannabis was incipient only. We hypothesized that recent changes in attitudes and legislations may have favorably affected research. In addition, publication bias against cannabis may have also decreased. To investigate this hypothesis, we conducted a review of research studies published over the last three years. We found 156 relevant research articles. In most cross-sectional studies, depression was higher in those who consumed cannabis than in those who did not. An increase in cannabis consumption was typically followed by an increase in depression, whereas withdrawal from cannabis ameliorated depression in most cases. Although medical cannabis reduced depression in most studies, none of these were placebo-controlled. In clinical studies published in the same period, the placebo also ameliorated depression and, in addition, the average effect size of the placebo was larger than the average effect size of medical cannabis. We also investigated the plausibility of the antidepressant effects of cannabis by reviewing molecular and pharmacological studies. Taken together, the reviewed findings do not support the antidepressant effects of herbal cannabis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medical Cannabis and Its Derivatives)
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