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Stasiłowicz-Krzemień A, Nogalska W, Maszewska Z, Maleszka M, Dobroń M, Szary A, Kępa A, Żarowski M, Hojan K, Lukowicz M, Cielecka-Piontek J. 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; 25:5749. [PMID: 38891938 PMCID: PMC11171823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Stasiłowicz-Krzemień
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Wiktoria Nogalska
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Zofia Maszewska
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Mateusz Maleszka
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Maria Dobroń
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Agnieszka Szary
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Aleksandra Kępa
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
| | - Marcin Żarowski
- Department of Developmental Neurology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewski 49, 60-355 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Hojan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swięcickiego 6, 61-847 Poznan, Poland;
- Department of Rehabilitation, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Garbary 15, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Lukowicz
- Department of Rehabilitation, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Konarskiego 13, 05-400 Otwock, Poland;
| | - Judyta Cielecka-Piontek
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Phytochemistry, Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants, Wojska Polskiego 71b, 60-630 Poznan, Poland
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Müller-Vahl KR. Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Selected Mental Illnesses: Practical Approach and Overview of the Literature. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2024; 57:104-114. [PMID: 38428836 PMCID: PMC11076106 DOI: 10.1055/a-2256-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Although an increasing number of patients suffering from mental illnesses self-medicate with cannabis, current knowledge about the efficacy and safety of cannabis-based medicine in psychiatry is still extremely limited. So far, no cannabis-based finished product has been approved for the treatment of a mental illness. There is increasing evidence that cannabinoids may improve symptoms in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Tourette syndrome (TS), anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to surveys, patients often use cannabinoids to improve mood, sleep, and symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There is evidence suggesting that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and THC-containing cannabis extracts, such as nabiximols, can be used as substitutes in patients with cannabis use disorder.Preliminary evidence also suggests an involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the pathophysiology of TS, ADHD, and PTSD. Since the ECS is the most important neuromodulatory system in the brain, it possibly induces beneficial effects of cannabinoids by alterations in other neurotransmitter systems. Finally, the ECS is an important stress management system. Thus, cannabinoids may improve symptoms in patients with mental illnesses by reducing stress.Practically, cannabis-based treatment in patients with psychiatric disorders does not differ from other indications. The starting dose of THC-containing products should be low (1-2.5 mg THC/day), and the dose should be up-titrated slowly (by 1-2.5 mg every 3-5 days). The average daily dose is 10-20 mg THC. In contrast, cannabidiol (CBD) is mainly used in high doses>400 mg/day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten R. Müller-Vahl
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Socialpsychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover
Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Shamabadi A, Arabzadeh Bahri R, Karimi H, Heidari E, Akhondzadeh S. Emerging pharmacotherapy for the treatment of cannabis use disorder. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:695-703. [PMID: 38717605 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2353638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION About one-fifth of cannabis users, the most commonly used illicit substance, have cannabis use disorder (CUD). Psychiatric disorders and suicide are more common in these patients, and the disability-adjusted life years were reported to be 0.69 million. Pharmacotherapy for CUD is an unmet public health need, as current evidence-based therapies have limited efficacy. AREAS COVERED After explaining the pathophysiology of CUD, the effects of emerging pharmacological interventions in its treatment obtained from randomized controlled trials were reviewed in light of mechanisms of action. Superiority over control of cannabidiol, gabapentin, galantamine, nabilone plus zolpidem, nabiximols, naltrexone, PF-04457845, quetiapine, varenicline, and topiramate were observed through the cannabinoid, glutamatergic, γ-aminobutyric acidergic, serotonergic, noradrenergic, dopaminergic, opioidergic, and cholinergic systems. All medications were reported to be safe and tolerable. EXPERT OPINION Adding pharmacotherapy to psychotherapy is the optimal treatment for CUD on a case-by-case basis. Drug development to add to psychotherapy is the main path, but time and cost suggest repurposing and repositioning existing drugs. Considering sample size, follow-up, and effect size, further studies using objective tools are necessary. The future of CUD treatment is promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Shamabadi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razman Arabzadeh Bahri
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanie Karimi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Heidari
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Fernandes JAB, Filev R, Fidalgo TM. Cannabinoids for Substance Use Disorder Treatment: What Does the Current Evidence Say? Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:703-715. [PMID: 37262132 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The prevalence of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is increasing along with the need to develop approaches to reduce the harm associated with substance use, including investigating alternatives such as cannabinoids, which show promising results, although the current evidence is limited. This scoping review focuses on the limitations and potentials of cannabinoid-based treatments for SUDs. Methods: We examined between-subject randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the use of CBD and THC as pharmacological treatment for SUDs in adults, with the procedures attending the expectations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) for Scoping Reviews guidelines and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool 2. Results: Ten RCTs were included, with six demonstrating low risk of bias, and positive results were found for treating Cannabis Use Disorder, while contradictory results were found for Opioid Use Disorder, and inconclusive results for treating Cocaine Use Disorder. Conclusions: CBD and THC demonstrate potential for treating some SUDs, but evidence is limited. Robust RCTs with larger samples and longer follow-up periods are necessary to assess carefully developed outcomes for different SUD patients. New cannabinoid-based medications and scientific-based policies may advance SUD treatment. A comprehensive approach to treatment and careful methodological choices may benefit patients with SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Ariel Bonar Fernandes
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renato Filev
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago M Fidalgo
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Wang R, Trigo JM, Le Foll B. Effects of sub-chronic nabiximols on biological markers of individuals undergoing a clinical trial for the treatment of cannabis use disorder. Am J Transl Res 2023; 15:5228-5238. [PMID: 37692969 PMCID: PMC10492088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nabiximols is used for treating various symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Nabiximols is also being investigated as a potential treatment medication for individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD). A variety of investigations have shown that, at low doses, nabiximols is overall well tolerated for MS treatment. However, due to tolerance, the management of CUD would likely require much higher doses of nabiximols to be effective. The effects of high doses of nabiximols on clinical laboratory tests remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated the sub-chronic effects of high doses of nabiximols on liver function, renal function, and other routine blood tests in this prospective study. METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of various blood markers results collected during a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial (Sativex and Behavioral-relapse Prevention Strategy in Cannabis Dependence, NCT01747850, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT01747850). This trial tested the impact of the 12-week administration of nabiximols with a maximum daily dose of up to 113.4 mg THC/105 mg CBD. RESULTS The measurements of the various biomarkers were in the normal range during the 12-week time frame. The results indicate an overall good tolerability of high-dose nabiximols on the blood markers measured. CONCLUSION Our preliminary results suggest that high doses of nabiximols might be well tolerated by individuals with CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Wang
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of TorontoToronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jose M Trigo
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthToronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of TorontoToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of TorontoToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of TorontoToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of TorontoToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Acute Care Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of TorontoToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Addictions Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthToronto, Ontario, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health CarePenetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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Preto MC, Kortas GT, Blaas IK, Lassi DLS, Waisman Campos M, Torales J, Ventriglio A, de Azevedo-Marques Périco C, de Andrade AG, Castaldelli-Maia JM. Unravelling the landscape of Cannabis craving pharmacological treatments: a PRISMA-guided review of evidence. Int Rev Psychiatry 2023; 35:434-449. [PMID: 38299652 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2023.2231540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Currently, few treatments are available for craving in general, and none of them have received approval for cannabis craving. The objective of this review is to evaluate existing studies analysing treatments for cannabis craving and explore novel treatment possibilities for these patients. The study followed PRISMA guidelines and conducted an extensive database search. Inclusion criteria included human randomised controlled trials examining drug effects on craving symptoms. Exclusion criteria involved studies unrelated to craving, non-pharmacological treatments, duplicates, and non-English/Spanish/Portuguese articles. Our included 22 studies that investigated a wide range of compounds used for cravings related to other drugs, as well as interventions based on healthcare professionals' empirical knowledge. The current pharmacological treatments largely involve off-label drug use and the utilisation of cannabinoid-based medications, such as combinations of THC and lofexidine, oxytocin, progesterone, and N-acetylcysteine. These emerging treatments show promise and have the potential to revolutionise current clinical practices, but further investigation is needed to establish their efficacy. In this context, it is essential to consider non-pharmacological interventions, such as psychotherapy and behavioural treatments. These approaches play a crucial role in complementing pharmacological interventions and addressing the complex nature of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Cruz Preto
- Medical School, Universidade Cidade de São Paulo (UNICID), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Trevizan Kortas
- Perdizes Intitute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Sirio-Libanês Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Israel Kanaan Blaas
- Perdizes Intitute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Dangela Layne Silva Lassi
- Perdizes Intitute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcela Waisman Campos
- Department of Cognitive Neurology, Neuropsychiatry, and Neuropsychology, FLENI, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julio Torales
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Asuncion, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Medical School, Medical School, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Arthur Guerra de Andrade
- Perdizes Intitute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Sirio-Libanês Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André, Brazil
| | - João Mauricio Castaldelli-Maia
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André, Brazil
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Gharbi KA, Bonomo YA, Hallinan CM. Evidence from Human Studies for Utilising Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Substance-Use Disorders: A Scoping Review with a Systematic Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20054087. [PMID: 36901098 PMCID: PMC10001982 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Substance-use disorders are pervasive, comorbid with a plethora of disease and possess limited treatment options. Medicinal cannabinoids have been proposed as a novel potential treatment based on preclinical/animal trials. The objective of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of potential therapeutics targeting the endocannabinoid system in the treatment of substance-use disorders. We performed a scoping review using a systematic approach of systematic reviews, narrative reviews, and randomised control trials that utilised cannabinoids as treatment for substance-use disorders. For this scoping review we used the PRISMA guidelines, a framework for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, to inform our methodology. We conducted a manual search of Medline, Embase, and Scopus databases in July 2022. Of the 253 results returned by the databases, 25 studies including reviews were identified as relevant, from which 29 randomised controlled trials were derived and analysed via a primary study decomposition. This review captured a small volume of highly heterogenous primary literature investing the therapeutic effect of cannabinoids for substance-use disorders. The most promising findings appeared to be for cannabis-use disorder. Cannabidiol appeared to be the cannabinoid showing the most promise for the treatment of multiple-substance-use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayvan Ali Gharbi
- Department of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Yvonne Ann Bonomo
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- St Vincent’s Health—Department of Addiction Medicine, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Christine Mary Hallinan
- Department of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Health & Biomedical Research Information Technology Unit (HaBIC R2), Department of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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De Feo G, Case AA, Crawford GB, Hui D, To J, Sbrana A, Alderman B, Mukhopadhyay S, Bouleuc C, Amano K, Tanco K, Garsed J, Davis M. Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) guidelines: cannabis for psychological symptoms including insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:176. [PMID: 36809575 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07628-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE During the treatment of cancer, 18% of patients use cannabis for symptom management. Anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances are common symptoms in cancer. A systematic review of the evidence for cannabis use for psychological symptoms in cancer patients was undertaken to develop a guideline. METHODS A literature search of randomized trials and systematic reviews was undertaken up to November 12, 2021. Studies were independently assessed for evidence by two authors and then evaluated by all authors for approval. The literature search involved MEDLINE, CCTR, EMBASE, and PsychINFO databases. Inclusion criteria included randomized control trials and systematic reviews on cannabis versus placebo or active comparator in patients with cancer and psychological symptom management (anxiety, depression, and insomnia). RESULTS The search yielded 829 articles; 145 from Medline, 419 from Embase, 62 from PsychINFO, and 203 from CCTR. Two systematic reviews and 15 randomized trials (4 on sleep, 5 on mood, 6 on both) met eligibility criteria. However, no studies specifically assessed the efficacy of cannabis on psychological symptoms as primary outcomes in cancer patients. The studies varied widely in terms of interventions, control, duration, and outcome measures. Six of 15 RCTs suggested benefits (five for sleep, one for mood). CONCLUSION There is no high-quality evidence to recommend the use of cannabis as an intervention for psychological symptoms in patients with cancer until more high-quality research demonstrates benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia De Feo
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, Oncology-Supportive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Amy A Case
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Gregory B Crawford
- South Australia, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - David Hui
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Josephine To
- Division of Aged Care, Rehabilitation and Palliative Care, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Carole Bouleuc
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, PSL University, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Koji Amano
- Department of Palliative Medicine, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kimberson Tanco
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jessica Garsed
- Clinical Informationist, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, USA
| | - Mellar Davis
- Palliative Care Department, Geisinger Medical System, Danville, USA.
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Royse SK, Lopresti BJ, Mathis CA, Tollefson S, Narendran R. Beyond monoamines: II. Novel applications for PET imaging in psychiatric disorders. J Neurochem 2023; 164:401-443. [PMID: 35716057 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Early applications of positron emission tomography (PET) in psychiatry sought to identify derangements of cerebral blood flow and metabolism. The need for more specific neurochemical imaging probes was soon evident, and these probes initially targeted the sites of action of neuroleptic (dopamine D2 receptors) and psychoactive (serotonin receptors) drugs. For nearly 30 years, the centrality of monoamine dysfunction in psychiatric disorders drove the development of an armamentarium of monoaminergic PET radiopharmaceuticals and imaging methodologies. However, continued investments in monoamine-enhancing drug development realized only modest gains in efficacy and tolerability. As patent protection for many widely prescribed and profitable psychiatric drugs lapsed, drug development pipelines shifted away from monoamines in search of novel targets with the promises of improved efficacy, or abandoned altogether. Over this period, PET radiopharmaceutical development activities closely parallelled drug development priorities, resulting in the development of new PET imaging agents for non-monoamine targets. In part two of this review, we survey clinical research studies using the novel targets and radiotracers described in part one across major psychiatric application areas such as substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. Important limitations of the studies described are discussed, as well as key methodologic issues, challenges to the field, and the status of clinical trials seeking to exploit these targets for novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Royse
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brian J Lopresti
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chester A Mathis
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Savannah Tollefson
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rajesh Narendran
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Mangoo S, Erridge S, Holvey C, Coomber R, Barros DAR, Bhoskar U, Mwimba G, Praveen K, Symeon C, Sachdeva-Mohan S, Rucker JJ, Sodergren MH. Assessment of clinical outcomes of medicinal cannabis therapy for depression: analysis from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:995-1008. [PMID: 36573268 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2161894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although pre-clinical experiments associate cannabinoids with reduced depressive symptoms, there is a paucity of clinical evidence. This study aims to analyze the health-related quality of life changes and safety outcomes in patients prescribed cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) for depression. METHODS A series of uncontrolled cases from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry were analyzed. The primary outcomes were changes from baseline in the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Sleep Quality Scale (SQS), and EQ-5D-5 L at 1, 3, and 6 months. Secondary outcomes included adverse events incidence. RESULTS 129 patients were identified for inclusion. Median PHQ-9 at baseline was 16.0 (IQR: 9.0-21.0). There were reductions in PHQ-9 at 1-month (median: 8.0; IQR: 4.0-14.0; p < 0.001), 3-months (7.0; 2.3-12.8; p < 0.001), and 6-months (7.0; 2.0-9.5; p < 0.001). Improvements were also observed in GAD-7, SQS, and EQ-5D-5L Index Value at 1, 3, and 6 months (p < 0.050). 153 (118.6%) adverse events were recorded by 14.0% (n = 18) of participants, 87% (n = 133) of which were mild or moderate. CONCLUSION CBMP treatment was associated with reductions in depression severity at 1, 3, and 6 months. Limitations of the study design mean that a causal relationship cannot be proven. This analysis provides insights for further study within clinical trial settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajed Mangoo
- Imperial College Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Erridge
- Imperial College Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | - Carl Holvey
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | - Ross Coomber
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK.,St. George's Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Daniela A Riano Barros
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK.,South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Urmila Bhoskar
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | - Gracia Mwimba
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | - Kavita Praveen
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | - Chris Symeon
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | | | - James J Rucker
- Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK.,South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Psychological Medicine, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Mikael H Sodergren
- Imperial College Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Medicine, Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
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A Systemic Review of Medical Cannabinoids Dosing in Human. Clin Ther 2022; 44:e39-e58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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12
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Matheson J, Bourgault Z, Le Foll B. Sex Differences in the Neuropsychiatric Effects and Pharmacokinetics of Cannabidiol: A Scoping Review. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12101462. [PMID: 36291671 PMCID: PMC9599539 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid compound with diverse molecular targets and potential therapeutic effects, including effects relevant to the treatment of psychiatric disorders. In this scoping review, we sought to determine the extent to which sex and gender have been considered as potential moderators of the neuropsychiatric effects and pharmacokinetics of CBD. In this case, 300 articles were screened, retrieved from searches in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, PsycInfo and CINAHL, though only 12 met our eligibility criteria: eight studies in preclinical models and four studies in humans. Among the preclinical studies, three suggested that sex may influence long-term effects of gestational or adolescent exposure to CBD; two found no impact of sex on CBD modulation of addiction-relevant effects of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); two found antidepressant-like effects of CBD in males only; and one found greater plasma and liver CBD concentrations in females compared to males. Among the human studies, two found no sex difference in CBD pharmacokinetics in patient samples, one found greater plasma CBD concentrations in healthy females compared to males, and one found no evidence of sex differences in the effects of CBD on responses to trauma recall in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). No studies were identified that considered the role of gender in CBD treatment effects. We discuss potential implications and current limitations of the existing literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Matheson
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
- Correspondence:
| | - Zoe Bourgault
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Acute Care Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON L9M 1G3, Canada
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Mills L, Dunlop A, Montebello M, Copeland J, Bruno R, Jefferies M, Mcgregor I, Lintzeris N. Correlates of treatment engagement and client outcomes: results of a randomised controlled trial of nabiximols for the treatment of cannabis use disorder. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2022; 17:67. [PMID: 36209081 PMCID: PMC9548192 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-022-00493-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS There is increasing interest and evidence for the use of cannabinoid medications in the treatment of cannabis use disorder, but little examination of the correlates of successful treatment. This paper is a secondary analysis of a randomised placebo-controlled trial of nabiximols for the treatment of cannabis use disorder (CUD), aiming to identify which client and treatment characteristics impact treatment engagement and outcomes. METHOD Bayesian multiple regression models were used to examine the impact of age, gender, duration of regular cannabis use, daily quantity of cannabis, cannabis use problems, self-efficacy for quitting, sleep, mental health, pain measures, and treatment group upon treatment engagement (retention, medication dose, and counselling participation) and treatment outcomes (achieving end-of-study abstinence, and a 50% or greater reduction in cannabis use days) among the 128 clients participating in the 12-week trial. RESULTS Among the treatment factors, greater counselling attendance was associated with greater odds of abstinence and ≥ 50% reduction in cannabis use; nabiximols with greater odds of ≥ 50% reduction and attending counselling, and reduced hazard of treatment dropout; and higher dose with lower odds of ≥ 50% reduction. Among the client factors, longer duration of regular use was associated with higher odds of abstinence and 50% reduction, and lower hazard of treatment dropout; greater quantity of cannabis use with reduced hazard of dropout, greater odds of attending counselling, and higher average dose; greater pain at baseline with greater odds of ≥ 50% reduction and higher average dose; and more severe sleep issues with lower odds of ≥ 50% reduction. Males had lower odds of attending counselling. DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that counselling combined with agonist pharmacotherapy may provide the optimal treatment for cannabis use disorder. Younger clients, male clients, and clients with sleep issues could benefit from extra support from treatment services to improve engagement and outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616000103460) https://www.anzctr.org.au.
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Affiliation(s)
- Llewellyn Mills
- grid.482212.f0000 0004 0495 2383Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, Caringbah, NSW Australia ,grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XSpecialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine, and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW Australia ,grid.416088.30000 0001 0753 1056NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), NSW Health, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Adrian Dunlop
- grid.3006.50000 0004 0438 2042Drug and Alcohol Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, New Lambton, NSW Australia ,grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XPriority Research Centre for Brain and Mental Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW Australia ,grid.482157.d0000 0004 0466 4031Drug and Alcohol Services, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Hornsby, Australia
| | - Mark Montebello
- grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XSpecialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine, and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW Australia ,grid.416088.30000 0001 0753 1056NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), NSW Health, St Leonards, Australia ,grid.482157.d0000 0004 0466 4031Drug and Alcohol Services, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Hornsby, Australia
| | - Jan Copeland
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW Australia ,grid.1034.60000 0001 1555 3415Mind and Neuroscience - Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD Australia
| | - Raimondo Bruno
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW Australia ,grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS Australia
| | - Meryem Jefferies
- grid.482212.f0000 0004 0495 2383Drug Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, North Parramatta, NSW Australia
| | - Iain Mcgregor
- grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XSchool of Psychology, University Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia ,grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XLambert Initiative Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia
| | - Nicholas Lintzeris
- grid.482212.f0000 0004 0495 2383Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, Caringbah, NSW Australia ,grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XSpecialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine, and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia ,grid.3006.50000 0004 0438 2042Drug and Alcohol Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, New Lambton, NSW Australia
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There have been many debates, discussions, and published writings about the therapeutic value of cannabis plant and the hundreds of cannabinoids it contains. Many states and countries have attempted, are attempting, or have already passed bills to allow legal use of cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions without having been approved by a regulatory body. Therefore, by using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, we have reviewed published papers during the past 30 years on cannabinoids as medicines and comment on whether there is sufficient clinical evidence from well-designed clinical studies and trials to support the use of CBD or any other cannabinoids as medicines. RECENT FINDINGS Current research shows that CBD and other cannabinoids currently are not ready for formal indications as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions as promoted except for several exceptions including limited use of CBD for treating two rare forms of epilepsy in young children and CBD in combination with THC for treating multiple-sclerosis-associated spasticity. SUMMARY Research indicates that CBD and several other cannabinoids have potential to treat multiple clinical conditions, but more preclinical, and clinical studies and clinical trials, which follow regulatory guidelines, are needed to formally recommend CBD and other cannabinoids as medicines.
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15
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Khalsa JH, Bunt G, Blum K, Maggirwar SB, Galanter M, Potenza MN. Review: Cannabinoids as Medicinals. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2022; 9:630-646. [PMID: 36093358 PMCID: PMC9449267 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00438-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review
There have been many debates, discussions, and published writings about the therapeutic value of cannabis plant and the hundreds of cannabinoids it contains. Many states and countries have attempted, are attempting, or have already passed bills to allow legal use of cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions without having been approved by a regulatory body. Therefore, by using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, we have reviewed published papers during the past 30 years on cannabinoids as medicines and comment on whether there is sufficient clinical evidence from well-designed clinical studies and trials to support the use of CBD or any other cannabinoids as medicines. Recent findings Current research shows that CBD and other cannabinoids currently are not ready for formal indications as medicines to treat a wide range of clinical conditions as promoted except for several exceptions including limited use of CBD for treating two rare forms of epilepsy in young children and CBD in combination with THC for treating multiple-sclerosis-associated spasticity. Summary Research indicates that CBD and several other cannabinoids have potential to treat multiple clinical conditions, but more preclinical, and clinical studies and clinical trials, which follow regulatory guidelines, are needed to formally recommend CBD and other cannabinoids as medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jag H. Khalsa
- Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences, Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse and Infections Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Special Volunteer, 16071 Industrial Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Ross Hall Room 502A, 2300 I Street, Washington, NWDC 20037 USA
- Drug Addiction and Co-occurring Infections, Aldie, VA 20105-5572 USA
| | - Gregory Bunt
- Samaritan Day Top Village, NYU School of Medicine, 550 First Ave, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Center for Behavioral Health & Sports, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA USA
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Division of Nutrigenomics, Precision Translational Medicine, LLC, San Antonio, TX USA
- Division of Nutrigenomics, Institute of Behavior & Neurogenetics, LLC, San Antonio, TX USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Wright University Boonshoff School of Medicine, Dayton, OH USA
| | - Sanjay B. Maggirwar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Ross Hall Room 502A, 2300 I Street, Washington, NWDC 20037 USA
| | - Marc Galanter
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, Room NBV20N28, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience and the Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, 1 Church Street, Rm726, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
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16
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Factors Associated With Past-year and Lifetime Prevalence of Cannabis Withdrawal: A Secondary Analysis. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/cxa.0000000000000155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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17
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Neurogenetic and Epigenetic Aspects of Cannabinoids. EPIGENOMES 2022; 6:epigenomes6030027. [PMID: 36135314 PMCID: PMC9498086 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes6030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used and abused illicit drugs in the world today. The United States (US) currently has the highest annual prevalence rate of cannabis consumption in the world, 17.9% in individuals aged 12 or older, and it is on the rise. With increasing cannabis use comes the potential for an increase in abuse, and according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 5.1% of Americans had Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) in 2020. Research has shown that genetics and epigenetics play a significant role in cannabis use and CUD. In fact, approximately 50–70% of liability to CUD and 40–48% of cannabis use initiation have been found to be the result of genetic factors. Cannabis usage and CUD have also been linked to an increased risk of psychiatric disorders and Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS) subsets like schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder. Comprehension of the genetic and epigenetic aspects of cannabinoids is necessary for future research, treatment plans, and the production of pure cannabinoid compounds, which will be essential for FDA approval. In conclusion, having a better understanding of the epigenetic and genetic underpinnings of cannabis use, CUD, and the endocannabinoid system as a whole will aid in the development of effective FDA-approved treatment therapies and the advancement of personalized medicine.
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Bilbao A, Spanagel R. Medical cannabinoids: a pharmacology-based systematic review and meta-analysis for all relevant medical indications. BMC Med 2022; 20:259. [PMID: 35982439 PMCID: PMC9389720 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02459-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical cannabinoids differ in their pharmacology and may have different treatment effects. We aimed to conduct a pharmacology-based systematic review (SR) and meta-analyses of medical cannabinoids for efficacy, retention and adverse events. METHODS We systematically reviewed (registered at PROSPERO: CRD42021229932) eight databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of dronabinol, nabilone, cannabidiol and nabiximols for chronic pain, spasticity, nausea /vomiting, appetite, ALS, irritable bowel syndrome, MS, Chorea Huntington, epilepsy, dystonia, Parkinsonism, glaucoma, ADHD, anorexia nervosa, anxiety, dementia, depression, schizophrenia, PTSD, sleeping disorders, SUD and Tourette. Main outcomes and measures included patient-relevant/disease-specific outcomes, retention and adverse events. Data were calculated as standardized mean difference (SMD) and ORs with confidence intervals (CI) via random effects. Evidence quality was assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias and GRADE tools. RESULTS In total, 152 RCTs (12,123 participants) were analysed according to the type of the cannabinoid, outcome and comparator used, resulting in 84 comparisons. Significant therapeutic effects of medical cannabinoids show a large variability in the grade of evidence that depends on the type of cannabinoid. CBD has a significant therapeutic effect for epilepsy (SMD - 0.5[CI - 0.62, - 0.38] high grade) and Parkinsonism (- 0.41[CI - 0.75, - 0.08] moderate grade). There is moderate evidence for dronabinol for chronic pain (- 0.31[CI - 0.46, - 0.15]), appetite (- 0.51[CI - 0.87, - 0.15]) and Tourette (- 1.01[CI - 1.58, - 0.44]) and moderate evidence for nabiximols on chronic pain (- 0.25[- 0.37, - 0.14]), spasticity (- 0.36[CI - 0.54, - 0.19]), sleep (- 0.24[CI - 0.35, - 0.14]) and SUDs (- 0.48[CI - 0.92, - 0.04]). All other significant therapeutic effects have either low, very low, or even no grade of evidence. Cannabinoids produce different adverse events, and there is low to moderate grade of evidence for this conclusion depending on the type of cannabinoid. CONCLUSIONS Cannabinoids are effective therapeutics for several medical indications if their specific pharmacological properties are considered. We suggest that future systematic studies in the cannabinoid field should be based upon their specific pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainhoa Bilbao
- Behavioral Genetics Research Group, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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Martins B, Rutland W, De Aquino JP, Kazer BL, Funaro M, Potenza MN, Angarita GA. Helpful or Harmful? The Therapeutic Potential of Medications with Varying Degrees of Abuse Liability in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2022; 9:647-659. [PMID: 35990796 PMCID: PMC9376579 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00432-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review summarizes recent clinical trial research on pharmacological treatments for substance use disorders, with a specific focus on agents with potential abuse liability. Recent Findings Pharmacological treatments for substance use disorders may include gabapentinoids, baclofen, modafinil, ketamine, cannabinoids, gamma-hydroxybutyrate, and psychedelics. Gabapentinoids may decrease negative subjective effects of withdrawal in alcohol and cannabis use disorders. Cannabinoids similarly appear to decrease use and withdrawal symptoms in cannabis use disorder, while research shows stimulant medications may reduce cravings and increase abstinence in cocaine use disorder. Ketamine and psychedelics may help treat multiple substance use disorders. Ketamine may reduce withdrawal symptoms, promote abstinence, and diminish cravings in alcohol and cocaine use disorders and psychedelics may promote remission, decrease use, and reduce cravings in alcohol and opioid use disorders. Summary Regardless of current regulatory approval statuses and potentials for abuse, multiple agents should not be dismissed prematurely as possible treatments for substance use disorders. However, further clinical research is needed before effective implementation can begin in practice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40429-022-00432-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradford Martins
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
- Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit, Connecticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
| | - Will Rutland
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
- Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit, Connecticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
| | - Joao P. De Aquino
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
- Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit, Connecticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
| | - Benjamin L. Kazer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
- Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit, Connecticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
| | - Melissa Funaro
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
- Connecticut Council On Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT 06109 USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
| | - Gustavo A. Angarita
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
- Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit, Connecticut Mental Health Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
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20
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Connor JP, Stjepanović D, Budney AJ, Le Foll B, Hall WD. Clinical management of cannabis withdrawal. Addiction 2022; 117:2075-2095. [PMID: 34791767 PMCID: PMC9110555 DOI: 10.1111/add.15743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cannabis withdrawal is a well-characterized phenomenon that occurs in approximately half of regular and dependent cannabis users after abrupt cessation or significant reductions in cannabis products that contain Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This review describes the diagnosis, prevalence, course and management of cannabis withdrawal and highlights opportunities for future clinical research. METHODS Narrative review of literature. RESULTS Symptom onset typically occurs 24-48 hours after cessation and most symptoms generally peak at days 2-6, with some symptoms lasting up to 3 weeks or more in heavy cannabis users. The most common features of cannabis withdrawal are anxiety, irritability, anger or aggression, disturbed sleep/dreaming, depressed mood and loss of appetite. Less common physical symptoms include chills, headaches, physical tension, sweating and stomach pain. Despite limited empirical evidence, supportive counselling and psychoeducation are the first-line approaches in the management of cannabis withdrawal. There are no medications currently approved specifically for medically assisted withdrawal (MAW). Medications have been used to manage short-term symptoms (e.g. anxiety, sleep, nausea). A number of promising pharmacological agents have been examined in controlled trials, but these have been underpowered and positive findings not reliably replicated. Some (e.g. cannabis agonists) are used 'off-label' in clinical practice. Inpatient admission for MAW may be clinically indicated for patients who have significant comorbid mental health disorders and polysubstance use to avoid severe complications. CONCLUSIONS The clinical significance of cannabis withdrawal is that its symptoms may precipitate relapse to cannabis use. Complicated withdrawal may occur in people with concurrent mental health and polysubstance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason P. Connor
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use ResearchThe University of QueenslandSt LuciaQLDAustralia,Discipline of Psychiatry, Faculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQLDAustralia
| | - Daniel Stjepanović
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use ResearchThe University of QueenslandSt LuciaQLDAustralia
| | - Alan J. Budney
- Center for Technology and Behavioral HealthGeisel School of Medicine at DartmouthLebanonNHUSA
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthUniversity of TorontoONCanada,Departments of Family and Community Medicine, Psychiatry, Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of TorontoONCanada
| | - Wayne D. Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use ResearchThe University of QueenslandSt LuciaQLDAustralia,Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health SciencesThe University of QueenslandWoolloongabbaQLDAustralia
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21
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McKee SA, McRae-Clark AL. Consideration of sex and gender differences in addiction medication response. Biol Sex Differ 2022; 13:34. [PMID: 35761351 PMCID: PMC9235243 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-022-00441-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use continues to contribute to significant morbidity and mortality in the United States, for both women and men, more so than another other preventable health condition. To reduce the public health burden attributable to substances, the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism have identified that medication development for substance use disorder is a high priority research area. Furthermore, both Institutes have stated that research on sex and gender differences in substance use medication development is a critical area. The purpose of the current narrative review is to highlight how sex and gender have been considered (or not) in medication trials for substance use disorders to clarify and summarize what is known regarding sex and gender differences in efficacy and to provide direction to the field to advance medication development that is consistent with current NIH 'sex as a biological variable' (SABV) policy. To that end, we reviewed major classes of abused substances (nicotine, alcohol, cocaine, cannabis, opioids) demonstrating that, sex and gender have not been well-considered in addiction medication development research. However, when adequate data on sex and gender differences have been evaluated (i.e., in tobacco cessation), clinically significant differences in response have been identified between women and men. Across the other drugs of abuse reviewed, data also suggest sex and gender may be predictive of outcome for some agents, although the relatively low representation of women in clinical research samples limits making definitive conclusions. We recommend the incorporation of sex and gender into clinical care guidelines and improved access to publicly available sex-stratified data from medication development investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry A. McKee
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Yale School of Medicine, 2 Church St South, Suite 109, New Haven, CT 06519 USA
| | - Aimee L. McRae-Clark
- grid.259828.c0000 0001 2189 3475Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA
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22
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Ortiz YT, McMahon LR, Wilkerson JL. Medicinal Cannabis and Central Nervous System Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:881810. [PMID: 35529444 PMCID: PMC9070567 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.881810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids, including those found in cannabis, have shown promise as potential therapeutics for numerous health issues, including pathological pain and diseases that produce an impact on neurological processing and function. Thus, cannabis use for medicinal purposes has become accepted by a growing majority. However, clinical trials yielding satisfactory endpoints and unequivocal proof that medicinal cannabis should be considered a frontline therapeutic for most examined central nervous system indications remains largely elusive. Although cannabis contains over 100 + compounds, most preclinical and clinical research with well-controlled dosing and delivery methods utilize the various formulations of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the two most abundant compounds in cannabis. These controlled dosing and delivery methods are in stark contrast to most clinical studies using whole plant cannabis products, as few clinical studies using whole plant cannabis profile the exact composition, including percentages of all compounds present within the studied product. This review will examine both preclinical and clinical evidence that supports or refutes the therapeutic utility of medicinal cannabis for the treatment of pathological pain, neurodegeneration, substance use disorders, as well as anxiety-related disorders. We will predominately focus on purified THC and CBD, as well as other compounds isolated from cannabis for the aforementioned reasons but will also include discussion over those studies where whole plant cannabis has been used. In this review we also consider the current challenges associated with the advancement of medicinal cannabis and its derived potential therapeutics into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuma T. Ortiz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Lance R. McMahon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, United States
| | - Jenny L. Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Jenny L. Wilkerson,
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23
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Abstract
Cannabinoids, including those found in cannabis, have shown promise as potential therapeutics for numerous health issues, including pathological pain and diseases that produce an impact on neurological processing and function. Thus, cannabis use for medicinal purposes has become accepted by a growing majority. However, clinical trials yielding satisfactory endpoints and unequivocal proof that medicinal cannabis should be considered a frontline therapeutic for most examined central nervous system indications remains largely elusive. Although cannabis contains over 100 + compounds, most preclinical and clinical research with well-controlled dosing and delivery methods utilize the various formulations of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the two most abundant compounds in cannabis. These controlled dosing and delivery methods are in stark contrast to most clinical studies using whole plant cannabis products, as few clinical studies using whole plant cannabis profile the exact composition, including percentages of all compounds present within the studied product. This review will examine both preclinical and clinical evidence that supports or refutes the therapeutic utility of medicinal cannabis for the treatment of pathological pain, neurodegeneration, substance use disorders, as well as anxiety-related disorders. We will predominately focus on purified THC and CBD, as well as other compounds isolated from cannabis for the aforementioned reasons but will also include discussion over those studies where whole plant cannabis has been used. In this review we also consider the current challenges associated with the advancement of medicinal cannabis and its derived potential therapeutics into clinical applications.
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Alegre-Zurano L, Berbegal-Sáez P, Luján MÁ, Cantacorps L, Martín-Sánchez A, García-Baos A, Valverde O. Cannabidiol decreases motivation for cocaine in a behavioral economics paradigm but does not prevent incubation of craving in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 148:112708. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Kirkland AE, Fadus MC, Gruber SA, Gray KM, Wilens TE, Squeglia LM. A scoping review of the use of cannabidiol in psychiatric disorders. Psychiatry Res 2022; 308:114347. [PMID: 34952255 PMCID: PMC8799523 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a fast-growing avenue for research in psychiatry, and clinicians are challenged with understanding the implications of CBD for treating mental health disorders. The goal of this review is to serve as a guide for mental health professionals by providing an overview of CBD and a synthesis the current evidence within major psychiatric disorders. PubMed and PsycINFO were searched for articles containing the terms "cannabidiol" in addition to major psychiatric disorders and symptoms, yielding 2952 articles. Only randomized controlled trials or within-subject studies investigating CBD as a treatment option for psychiatric disorders (N = 16) were included in the review. Studies were reviewed for psychotic disorders (n = 6), anxiety disorders (n = 3), substance use disorders (tobacco n = 3, cannabis n = 2, opioid n = 1), and insomnia (n = 1). There were no published studies that met inclusion criteria for alcohol or stimulant use disorder, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or mood disorders. Synthesis of the CBD literature indicates it is generally safe and well tolerated. The most promising preliminary findings are related to the use of CBD in psychotic symptoms and anxiety. There is currently not enough high-quality evidence to suggest the clinical use of CBD for any psychiatric disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Kirkland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.
| | - Matthew C Fadus
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Staci A Gruber
- Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core, Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) Program, McLean Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kevin M Gray
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Timothy E Wilens
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Center for Addiction Medicine Co-Director, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lindsay M Squeglia
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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Vuilleumier C, Scherbaum N, Bonnet U, Roser P. Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:867878. [PMID: 35815028 PMCID: PMC9256935 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.867878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of cannabis use and cannabis use disorders (CUD) has significantly increased over time. However, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for CUD. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of various medical cannabinoids in the treatment of CUD. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials which evaluated the therapeutic potential of medical cannabinoids in individuals with CUD and summarized the main study outcomes in terms of cannabis use, abstinence, withdrawal symptoms, craving, retention in treatment and adverse events. RESULTS We identified eight trials with a total of 667 study participants. Dronabinol reduced cannabis withdrawal symptoms whereas nabiximols, cannabidiol and PF-04457845, a fatty acid amide inhibitor, also reduced cannabis use and improved abstinence, compared to placebo. Nabilone failed to demonstrate efficacy in the treatment of CUD. All medications were well-tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Cannabinoid receptor agonists, i.e., dronabinol and nabilone, showed only limited or no therapeutic potential in the treatment of CUD. In contrast, modulators of endocannabinoid activity, i.e., nabiximols, cannabidiol and PF-04457845, demonstrated broader efficacy which covered almost all aspects of CUD. Endocannabinoid modulation appears to be a promising treatment approach in CUD, but the evidence to support this strategy is still small and future research in this direction is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Vuilleumier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Services Aargau, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Zurich, Windisch, Switzerland
| | - Norbert Scherbaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LVR-Hospital Essen, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Udo Bonnet
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LVR-Hospital Essen, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Castrop-Rauxel, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Castrop-Rauxel, Germany
| | - Patrik Roser
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Services Aargau, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Zurich, Windisch, Switzerland.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LVR-Hospital Essen, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany
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Cleirec G, Desmier E, Lacatus C, Lesgourgues S, Braun A, Peloso C, Obadia C. Efficiency of Inhaled Cannabidiol in Cannabis Use Disorder: The Pilot Study Cannavap. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:899221. [PMID: 35686188 PMCID: PMC9171109 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.899221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabidiol (CBD), the second most prevalent cannabinoid found in cannabis, is considered to be safe for use. Studies suggest that CBD may be of benefit in treating cannabis use disorder (CUD). In clinical practice, CBD is already being used by patients who are trying to reduce or stop their cannabis consumption. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of CBD inhaled using a vaping device in CUD. METHODS This was an exploratory, observational, non-randomized, open-label study conducted at an Addiction Support and Prevention Center in Paris. The primary endpoint was a reduction of at least 50% in the reported number of joints consumed daily at 12 weeks. The participants were given an electronic cigarette along with liquid containing CBD. Nicotine at 6 mg/ml could be added in case of co-consumption of tobacco. They were assessed once a week and the CBD liquid dose was adjusted based on withdrawal signs and cravings (33.3, 66.6 or 100 mg/mL). RESULTS Between November 2020 and May 2021, 20 patients were included and 9 (45%) completed the follow-up. All of the participants used tobacco, and were provided a liquid with nicotine. At 12 weeks, 6 patients (30%) had reduced their daily cannabis consumption by at least 50%. The mean number of joints per day was 3, compared to 6.7 at baseline. The mean amount of CBD inhaled per day was 215.8 mg. No symptomatic treatment for cannabis withdrawal was prescribed. Mild adverse effects attributable to CBD and not requiring the prescription of any medicines were reported in a few patients. CONCLUSION This research provides evidence in favor of the use of CBD in CUD. It also highlights the benefits of inhalation as the route of CBD administration in patients who use cannabis: inhalation can allow users to self-titrate CBD based on their withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This study illustrates the interest of proposing an addictological intervention targeting at the same time tobacco and cannabis dependence in users who are co-consumers. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial is needed to assess the efficacy of inhaled CBD in CUD.Study registration number (IDRCB) issued by the ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé-French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety): 2018-A03256-49. This study received IEC approval from the CPP Sud-Ouest et Outre-Mer 1 (South-West and Overseas 1 IEC) on 15/06/2020 (CPP 1-19-041/ID 3012).
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire Cleirec
- Addiction Support and Prevention Center 110 Les Halles, Groupe SOS Solidarités, Paris, France.,Addiction Department of Hôpital suburbain du Bouscat, Le Bouscat, France
| | - Esther Desmier
- Addiction Support and Prevention Center 110 Les Halles, Groupe SOS Solidarités, Paris, France
| | - Cristina Lacatus
- Addiction Support and Prevention Center 110 Les Halles, Groupe SOS Solidarités, Paris, France
| | - Simon Lesgourgues
- Addiction Support and Prevention Center 110 Les Halles, Groupe SOS Solidarités, Paris, France
| | - Anais Braun
- Addiction Support and Prevention Center 110 Les Halles, Groupe SOS Solidarités, Paris, France
| | - Claire Peloso
- Addiction Support and Prevention Center 110 Les Halles, Groupe SOS Solidarités, Paris, France
| | - Chanaëlle Obadia
- Addiction Department of René Muret Hospital, Assistance Publique des Hopitaux de Paris, Sevran, France
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Fortin D, Di Beo V, Massin S, Bisiou Y, Carrieri P, Barré T. A "Good" Smoke? The Off-Label Use of Cannabidiol to Reduce Cannabis Use. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:829944. [PMID: 35370865 PMCID: PMC8968154 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.829944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although cannabis use is common in France, it is still criminalized. Cannabidiol (CBD) products, including CBD-rich cannabis, are legally available. Although previous results suggested that CBD may have benefits for people with cannabis use disorder, there is a lack of data on cannabis users who use CBD to reduce their cannabis consumption. We aimed to identify (i) correlates of this motive, and (ii) factors associated with successful attempts to reduce cannabis use. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey among French-speaking CBD and cannabis users was conducted. Logistic regressions were performed to identify correlates of using CBD to reduce cannabis consumption and correlates of reporting a large reduction. RESULTS Eleven percent (n = 105) of our study sample reported they primarily used CBD to reduce cannabis consumption. Associated factors included smoking tobacco cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] 2.17 [1.3-3.62], p = 0.003) and drinking alcohol (aOR [95%CI] 1.8 [1.02-3.18], p = 0.042). Of these 105, 83% used CBD-rich cannabis to smoke, and 58.7% reported a large reduction in cannabis consumption. This large reduction was associated with non-daily cannabis use (aOR [95%CI] 7.14 [2.4-20.0], p < 0.001) and daily CBD use (aOR [95%CI] 5.87 [2.09-16.47], p = 0.001). A reduction in cannabis withdrawal symptoms thanks to CBD use was the most-cited effect at play in self-observed cannabis reduction. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis use reduction is a reported motive for CBD use-especially CBD-rich cannabis to smoke-in France. More studies are needed to explore practices associated with this motive and to accurately assess CBD effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincent Di Beo
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Sophie Massin
- Artois University, CNRS, IESEG School of Management, University of Lille, UMR 9221, Lille Economie Management, Arras, France
| | - Yann Bisiou
- University Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, CORHIS, Montpellier, France
| | - Patrizia Carrieri
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Tangui Barré
- Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
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Possible actions of cannabidiol in obsessive-compulsive disorder by targeting the WNT/β-catenin pathway. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:230-248. [PMID: 33837269 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01086-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by recurrent and distinctive obsessions and/or compulsions. The etiologies remain unclear. Recent findings have shown that oxidative stress, inflammation, and glutamatergic pathways play key roles in the causes of OCD. However, first-line therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy but only 40% of the patients respond to this first-line therapy. Research for new treatment is mandatory. This review focuses on the potential effects of cannabidiol (CBD), as a potential therapeutic strategy, on OCD and some of the presumed mechanisms by which CBD provides its benefit properties. CBD medication downregulates GSK-3β, the main inhibitor of the WNT/β-catenin pathway. The activation of the WNT/β-catenin could be associated with the control of oxidative stress, inflammation, and glutamatergic pathway and circadian rhythms dysregulation in OCD. Future prospective clinical trials could focus on CBD and its different and multiple interactions in OCD.
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Barré T, Mercié P, Marcellin F, Esterle L, Duvivier C, Teicher E, Bureau M, Chas J, Salmon-Céron D, Sogni P, Carrieri MP, Wittkop L, Protopopescu C. HCV Cure and Cannabis Abstinence Facilitate Tobacco Smoking Quit Attempts in HIV-HCV Co-Infected Patients (ANRS CO13 HEPAVIH Cohort Study). AIDS Behav 2021; 25:4141-4153. [PMID: 33903998 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03277-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In Western countries, tobacco smoking is highly prevalent among patients co-infected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV). In the era of antiretrovirals and HCV cure, smoking-related health damages contribute greatly to morbidity and mortality in HIV-HCV co-infected patients. We used longitudinal data from the ANRS CO13 HEPAVIH cohort to identify the correlates of tobacco smoking quit attempts (TSQA) in HIV-HCV co-infected patients. TSQA were modelled using a multivariable discrete-time Cox proportional hazards model in 695 HIV-HCV co-infected tobacco smokers. HCV cure was associated with a 76% higher chance of TSQA (adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.76 [1.06-2.93], p = 0.029), and cannabis use with a 37% lower chance (0.63 [0.40-1.00], p = 0.049), independently of the mode of HIV transmission, other psychoactive substance use, and body mass index. Patients should be screened for tobacco and cannabis use at HCV treatment initiation and during follow-up. They should also be provided with comprehensive counselling and referral to addiction services. Non-smoking routes of cannabis administration should be promoted for cannabis users who wish to quit smoking tobacco.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tangui Barré
- INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France
- ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Patrick Mercié
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Bordeaux, Pôle Médecine Interne, Service de Médecine Interne Et Immunologie Clinique, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center UMR 1219, CIC-EC 1401, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Fabienne Marcellin
- INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France.
- UMR 1252 SESSTIM, Aix-Marseille Univ, Faculté de Médecine, 3e étage - Aile Bleue, 27, boulevard Jean Moulin, 13385, Marseille cedex 5, France.
| | - Laure Esterle
- ISPED, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Team MORPH3EUS, UMR 1219, CIC-EC 1401, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Claudine Duvivier
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Centre d'Infectiologie Necker-Pasteur, APHP-Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- IHU Imagine, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin-CNRS 8104-INSERM U1016-RIL Team: Retrovirus, Infection and Latency, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Centre Médical de L'Institut Pasteur, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Elina Teicher
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire, AP-HP Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Villejuif, France
- DHU Hepatinov, Villejuif, France
- Service de Médecine Interne, AP-HP Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Morgane Bureau
- INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France
| | - Julie Chas
- Service Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Tenon, Paris, France
| | - Dominique Salmon-Céron
- Service Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Sogni
- Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
- INSERM U1223, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Maria Patrizia Carrieri
- INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France
| | - Linda Wittkop
- ISPED, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Team MORPH3EUS, UMR 1219, CIC-EC 1401, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Service D'information Médicale, CHU de Bordeaux, Pôle de Santé Publique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Camelia Protopopescu
- INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France
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Rømer Thomsen K, Thylstrup B, Kenyon EA, Lees R, Baandrup L, Feldstein Ewing SW, Freeman TP. Cannabinoids for the treatment of cannabis use disorder: New avenues for reaching and helping youth? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 132:169-180. [PMID: 34822876 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis use peaks during adolescence and emerging adulthood, and cannabis use disorder (CUD) is associated with a wide range of adverse outcomes. This is particularly pertinent in youth, because the developing brain may be more vulnerable to adverse effects of frequent cannabis use. Combining evidence-based psychosocial interventions with safe and effective pharmacotherapy is a potential avenue to improve youth outcomes, but we lack approved CUD pharmacotherapies. Here, we review new potential avenues for helping youth with CUD, with a particular focus on cannabinoid-based treatments. Evidence from placebo-controlled RCTs suggests synthetic delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) decreases withdrawal symptoms, but not cannabis use, in adults with daily cannabis use/CUD, while findings regarding formulations containing THC combined with cannabidiol (CBD) are mixed. Preliminary evidence from two placebo-controlled RCTs in adults with CUD suggests that both Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase inhibitors and CBD can reduce cannabis use. However, larger trials are needed to strengthen the evidence. Findings from adults point to cannabinoid-based treatments as a potential strategy that should be examined in youth with CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Rømer Thomsen
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark.
| | - Birgitte Thylstrup
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Emily A Kenyon
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, USA
| | - Rachel Lees
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK
| | - Lone Baandrup
- Mental Health Centre Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sarah W Feldstein Ewing
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark; Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, USA
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK
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Cannabis/Cannabinoids for Treating COVID-19 Associated Neuropsychiatric Complications. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2021; 16:718-721. [PMID: 34655372 PMCID: PMC8520083 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-021-10013-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 epidemic has resulted in devastating mortality and morbidity consisting of socioeconomic and health effects that have included respiratory/pulmonary, cardiovascular, mental health and neurological consequences such as anxiety, depression, and substance use. Several effective vaccines have been developed and extensive efforts are underway to develop therapeutics to treat COVID-19. Cannabis and/or its product-cannabidiol (CBD) are being advertised for the treatment of COVID-19 associated mental/neurological complications and substance use disorders. However, research reviewed shows that there is insufficient data from clinical studies to support the use of cannabis or CBD for the treatment of COVID-19 associated mental health and neurological complications. Additional basic and clinical research is suggested to develop cannabis or cannabidiol for the treatment of mental health problems associated with coronavirus infection and or substance use disorders. In the meantime, it is important that the addiction physician/psychiatrist must caution while prescribing or recommending cannabis or CBD for treating such clinical indications. Research shows that currently there is no clinical evidence to support the use of cannabis or any of its compounds including CBD for treating any of the neuropsychiatric complications of COVID-19. Thus, it is important that the addiction physicians/psychiatrists caution their patients from using cannabis or cannabis products for treating any such complications.
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BIDWELL LCINNAMON, MARTIN-WILLETT RENÉE, KAROLY HOLLISC. Advancing the science on cannabis concentrates and behavioural health. Drug Alcohol Rev 2021; 40:900-913. [PMID: 33783029 PMCID: PMC9878551 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
ISSUES The Cannabis sativa L. plant contains hundreds of phytocannabinoids, but putatively of highest importance to public health risk is the psychoactive cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is associated with risk for cannabis use disorder, affective disturbance, cognitive harm and psychomotor impairment. Recently, there has been an increase in the use and availability of concentrated cannabis products (or 'concentrates') that are made by extracting cannabinoids from the plant to form a product with THC concentrations as high as 90-95%. These products are increasingly popular nationwide. The literature on these widely available high potency concentrates is limited and there are many unknowns about their potential harms. APPROACH This review covers the state of the research on cannabis concentrates and behavioural health-related outcomes and makes recommendations for advancing the science with studies focused on accurately testing the risks in relation to critical public and behavioural health questions. KEY FINDINGS Data point to unique behavioural health implications of concentrate use. However, causal, controlled and representative research on the effects of cannabis concentrates is currently limited. IMPLICATIONS Future research is needed to explore chronic, acute and developmental effects of concentrates, as well as effects on pulmonary function. We also highlight the need to explore these relationships in diverse populations. CONCLUSION While the literature hints at the potential for these highly potent products to increase cannabis-related behavioural health harms, it is important to carefully design studies that more comprehensively evaluate the impact of concentrates on THC exposure and short- and long-term effects across user groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. CINNAMON BIDWELL
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA,Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
| | - RENÉE MARTIN-WILLETT
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
| | - HOLLIS C. KAROLY
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA,Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA
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Potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoid products in adult psychiatric disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 140:267-281. [PMID: 34119912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The utility of cannabinoids and cannabinoid-based products (CBPs) as a pharmacological aid to treat psychiatric disorders in adulthood is still poorly understood despite a number of comprehensive general reviews discussing the topic. With a focus on randomized controlled trial (RCT) data, this review and meta-analysis aimed to aggregate and evaluate all current high-quality (Level-1) research that specifically assessed the effectiveness of a CBP on a diagnosed adult psychiatric disorder. The following databases, from their inception to September 2020, were included in the search: Academic Search Premier, PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE®, Web of Science™, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, CINAHL (Nursing and Allied Health), and Scopus. Risk of bias for each study was individually assessed using the revised Cochrane tool. Of the 2397 papers identified, thirty-one RCTs met criteria for inclusion: ten trials focused on treating cannabis use disorder, six on schizophrenia, five on opioid/tobacco use disorder, three on anxiety disorders, two on Tourette's disorder, two on anorexia nervosa, and one trial each for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. This review finds limited evidence for the effectiveness of CBPs to acutely treat a narrow range of psychiatric symptoms. We report no evidence supporting the mid- to long-range effectiveness of any currently available CBP. In general, quality of the evidence was assessed as low- to moderate. Importantly, none of the studies discussed in this review presently endorse the use of cannabis flower as a method of treatment for any recognized psychiatric disorder. Larger, hypothesis driven RCTs are required prior to making further therapeutic recommendations.
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Bahji A, Meyyappan AC, Hawken ER, Tibbo PG. Pharmacotherapies for cannabis use disorder: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 97:103295. [PMID: 34062288 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the efficacy and acceptability of pharmacotherapies for cannabis use disorder (CUD). METHODS We conducted a systematic review and frequentist network meta-analysis, searching five electronic databases for randomized placebo-controlled trials of individuals diagnosed with CUD receiving pharmacotherapy with or without concomitant psychotherapy. Primary outcomes were the reduction in cannabis use and retention in treatment. Secondary outcomes were adverse events, discontinuation due to adverse events, total abstinence, withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and CUD severity. We applied a frequentist, random-effects Network Meta-Analysis model to pool effect sizes across trials using standardized mean differences (SMD, g) and rate ratios (RR) with their 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS We identified a total of 24 trials (n=1912, 74.9% male, mean age 30.2 years). Nabilone (d=-4.47 [-8.15; -0.79]), topiramate (d=-3.80 [-7.06; -0.54]), and fatty-acid amyl hydroxylase inhibitors (d=-2.30 [-4.75; 0.15]) reduced cannabis use relative to placebo. Dronabinol improved retention in treatment (RR=1.27 [1.02; 1.57]), while topiramate worsened treatment retention (RR=0.62 [0.42; 0.91]). Gabapentin reduced cannabis cravings (d=-2.42 [-3.53; -1.32], while vilazodone worsened craving severity (d=1.69 [0.71; 2.66]. Buspirone (RR=1.14 [1.00; 1.29]), venlafaxine (RR=1.78 [1.40; 2.26]), and topiramate (RR=9.10 [1.27; 65.11]) caused more adverse events, while topiramate caused more dropouts due to adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Based on this review, some medications appeared to show promise for treating individual aspects of CUD. However, there is a lack of robust evidence to support any particular pharmacological treatment. There is a need for additional studies to expand the evidence base for CUD pharmacotherapy. While medication strategies may become an integral component for CUD treatment one day, psychosocial interventions should remain the first line given the limitations in the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anees Bahji
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Arthi Chinna Meyyappan
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Centre for Neurosciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Emily R Hawken
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Centre for Neurosciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Philip G Tibbo
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada; Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Navarrete F, García-Gutiérrez MS, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Manzanares J. Role of Cannabidiol in the Therapeutic Intervention for Substance Use Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:626010. [PMID: 34093179 PMCID: PMC8173061 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.626010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug treatments available for the management of substance use disorders (SUD) present multiple limitations in efficacy, lack of approved treatments or alarming relapse rates. These facts hamper the clinical outcome and the quality of life of the patients supporting the importance to develop new pharmacological agents. Lately, several reports suggest that cannabidiol (CBD) presents beneficial effects relevant for the management of neurological disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s diseases. Furthermore, there is a large body of evidence pointing out that CBD improves cognition, neurogenesis and presents anxiolytic, antidepressant, antipsychotic, and neuroprotective effects suggesting potential usefulness for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases and SUD. Here we review preclinical and clinical reports regarding the effects of CBD on the regulation of the reinforcing, motivational and withdrawal-related effects of different drugs of abuse such as alcohol, opioids (morphine, heroin), cannabinoids, nicotine, and psychostimulants (cocaine, amphetamine). Furthermore, a special section of the review is focused on the neurobiological mechanisms that might be underlying the ‘anti-addictive’ action of CBD through the regulation of dopaminergic, opioidergic, serotonergic, and endocannabinoid systems as well as hippocampal neurogenesis. The multimodal pharmacological profile described for CBD and the specific regulation of addictive behavior-related targets explains, at least in part, its therapeutic effects on the regulation of the reinforcing and motivational properties of different drugs of abuse. Moreover, the remarkable safety profile of CBD, its lack of reinforcing properties and the existence of approved medications containing this compound (Sativex®, Epidiolex®) increased the number of studies suggesting the potential of CBD as a therapeutic intervention for SUD. The rising number of publications with substantial results on the valuable therapeutic innovation of CBD for treating SUD, the undeniable need of new therapeutic agents to improve the clinical outcome of patients with SUD, and the upcoming clinical trials involving CBD endorse the relevance of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Navarrete
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Salud García-Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ani Gasparyan
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jorge Manzanares
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain.,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud (RETICS), Red de Trastornos Adictivos, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, MICINN and FEDER, Madrid, Spain
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Wilkerson JL, Bilbrey JA, Felix JS, Makriyannis A, McMahon LR. Untapped endocannabinoid pharmacological targets: Pipe dream or pipeline? Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 206:173192. [PMID: 33932409 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
It has been established that the endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoid) system plays key modulatory roles in a wide variety of pathological conditions. The endocannabinoid system comprises both cannabinoid receptors, their endogenous ligands including 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), N-arachidonylethanolamine (anandamide, AEA), and enzymes that regulate the synthesis and degradation of endogenous ligands which include diacylglycerol lipase alpha (DAGL-α), diacylglycerol lipase beta (DAGL-β), fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), α/β hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6). As the endocannabinoid system exerts considerable involvement in the regulation of homeostasis and disease, much effort has been made towards understanding endocannabinoid-related mechanisms of action at cellular, physiological, and pathological levels as well as harnessing the various components of the endocannabinoid system to produce novel therapeutics. However, drug discovery efforts within the cannabinoid field have been slower than anticipated to reach satisfactory clinical endpoints and raises an important question into the validity of developing novel ligands that therapeutically target the endocannabinoid system. To answer this, we will first examine evidence that supports the existence of an endocannabinoid system role within inflammatory diseases, neurodegeneration, pain, substance use disorders, mood disorders, as well as metabolic diseases. Next, this review will discuss recent clinical studies, within the last 5 years, of cannabinoid compounds in context to these diseases. We will also address some of the challenges and considerations within the cannabinoid field that may be important in the advancement of therapeutics into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Joshua A Bilbrey
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jasmine S Felix
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lance R McMahon
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Evidence for the Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target in the Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2021; 7:545-552. [PMID: 33816054 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-020-00342-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is highly prevalent. Psychotherapy alone is not adequately effective, with few individuals achieving abstinence. Pharmacotherapeutic supplementation may improve efficacy, and the endocannabinoid system presents a target specifically dysregulated by heavy cannabis use. This review compiles current literature evaluating endocannabinoid modulation as a treatment strategy for CUD, with implications for future research. Recent Findings Cannabinoid receptor agonists have been found to reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms without a notable effect on relapse, and antagonists can produce severe psychiatric symptoms. Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitors and cannabidiol demonstrate the most promising efficacy in treating CUD thus far, but research with these compounds is still preliminary. Summary Components of the endocannabinoid system may serve as unique treatment targets with differential efficacy for the treatment of cannabis use disorder as a whole. Further research is needed exploring novel methods for targeting endocannabinoid dysfunction in CUD.
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Lees R, Hines LA, D'Souza DC, Stothart G, Di Forti M, Hoch E, Freeman TP. Psychosocial and pharmacological treatments for cannabis use disorder and mental health comorbidities: a narrative review. Psychol Med 2021; 51:353-364. [PMID: 33536109 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291720005449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug worldwide, and it is estimated that up to 30% of people who use cannabis will develop a cannabis use disorder (CUD). Demand for treatment of CUD is increasing in almost every region of the world and cannabis use is highly comorbid with mental disorders, where sustained use can reduce treatment compliance and increase risk of relapse. In this narrative review, we outline evidence for psychosocial and pharmacological treatment strategies for CUD, both alone and when comorbid with psychosis, anxiety or depression. Psychosocial treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational enhancement therapy and contingency management are currently the most effective strategy for treating CUD but are of limited benefit when comorbid with psychosis. Pharmacological treatments targeting the endocannabinoid system have the potential to reduce cannabis withdrawal and cannabis use in CUD. Mental health comorbidities including anxiety, depression and psychosis hinder effective treatment and should be addressed in treatment provision and clinical decision making to reduce the global burden of CUDs. Antipsychotic medication may decrease cannabis use and cannabis craving as well as psychotic symptoms in patients with CUD and psychosis. Targeted treatments for anxiety and depression when comorbid with CUD are feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Lees
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Lindsey A Hines
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Deepak Cyril D'Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Marta Di Forti
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Eva Hoch
- Cannabinoid Research and Treatment Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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Tibbo PG, McKee KA, Meyer JH, Crocker CE, Aitchison KJ, Lam RW, Crockford DN. Are There Therapeutic Benefits of Cannabinoid Products in Adult Mental Illness? CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2021; 66:185-194. [PMID: 32911977 PMCID: PMC7918871 DOI: 10.1177/0706743720945525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
A position statement developed by the Canadian Psychiatric Association's (CPA) Research Committee and approved by the CPA's Board of Directors on May 13, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip G Tibbo
- Department of Psychiatry, 3688Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Kyle A McKee
- Department of Psychiatry, 3688Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jeffrey H Meyer
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Candice E Crocker
- Department of Psychiatry, 3688Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Katherine J Aitchison
- Departments of Psychiatry and Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Raymond W Lam
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Morel A, Lebard P, Dereux A, Azuar J, Questel F, Bellivier F, Marie-Claire C, Fatséas M, Vorspan F, Bloch V. Clinical Trials of Cannabidiol for Substance Use Disorders: Outcome Measures, Surrogate Endpoints, and Biomarkers. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:565617. [PMID: 33692705 PMCID: PMC7937926 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.565617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid of potential interest for the treatment of substance use disorders. Our aim was to review the outcome measures, surrogate endpoints, and biomarkers in published and ongoing randomized clinical trials. Methods: We conducted a search in PubMed, Web of Science, PMC, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CENTRAL Cochrane Library, "clinicalTrials.gov," "clinicaltrialsregister.eu," and "anzctr.org.au" for published and ongoing studies. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) examining the use of CBD alone or in association with other cannabinoids, in all substance use disorders. The included studies were analyzed in detail and their qualities assessed by a standardized tool (CONSORT 2010). A short description of excluded studies, consisting in controlled short-term or single administration in non-treatment-seeking drug users, is provided. Findings: The screening retrieved 207 published studies, including only 3 RCTs in cannabis use disorder. Furthermore, 12 excluded studies in cannabis, tobacco, and opioid use disorders are described. Interpretation: Primary outcomes were validated withdrawal symptoms scales and drug use reduction in the three RCTs. In the short-term or crossover studies, the outcome measures were visual analog scales for subjective states; self-rated scales for withdrawal, craving, anxiety, or psychotomimetic symptoms; and laboratory tasks of drug-induced craving, effort expenditure, attentional bias for substance, impulsivity, or anxiety to serve as surrogate endpoints for treatment efficacy. Of note, ongoing studies are now adding peripheral biomarkers of the endocannabinoid system status to predict treatment response. Conclusion: The outcome measures and biomarkers assessed in the ongoing CBD trials for substance use disorders are improving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alix Morel
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Lebard
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Dereux
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France.,INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Julien Azuar
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France.,INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Frank Questel
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France.,INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Frank Bellivier
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France.,INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,UFR Médecine, Université de Paris, 3 rue Thomas Mann, Paris, France
| | - Cynthia Marie-Claire
- INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Mélina Fatséas
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,CNRS-UMR 5287- Institut de Neurosciences Cognitives et Intégratives d'Aquitaine (INCIA), Bordeaux, France.,Pôle d'addictologie, CHU de Bordeaux, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, France
| | - Florence Vorspan
- Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Lariboisière-Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France.,INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,UFR Médecine, Université de Paris, 3 rue Thomas Mann, Paris, France
| | - Vanessa Bloch
- INSERM UMRS1144, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, Paris, France.,FHU NOR-SUD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Service de Pharmacie, Hôpital Fernand Widal, GHU NORD, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, 200 rue du Fg St Denis, Paris, France
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Meyer M, Walter M, Borgwardt S, Scheidegger A, Lang E, Köck P. Case Report: CBD Cigarettes for Harm Reduction and Adjunctive Therapy in a Patient With Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:712110. [PMID: 34366942 PMCID: PMC8339295 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.712110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of patients with schizophrenia and substance use disorder poses a challenge for clinicians. Continued use of cannabis and cocaine can exacerbate psychotic symptoms and worsen the course of disease. To date, no pharmacotherapy is available for patients with cannabis use disorder (CUD). Cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the main active constituents in Cannabis sativa, with the latter being linked to an increased risk of psychosis. We describe a clinical case of a male patient diagnosed with schizophrenia, combined personality disorder, CUD and cocaine use disorder. Over the course of 8 years, he was hospitalized 30 times due to psychotic relapses and continued substance use. Consequently, CBD cigarettes with a low THC content (<1%) were used as adjunctive therapy. Additionally, we established off-label treatment with methylphenidate to support abstinence. The patient reported to feel significantly less need to consume illegal cannabis with a high THC content. He stopped to use cocaine, for the time being, and has not been hospitalized since. This case report demonstrates the potential of smoked CBD as a substitute for severe and chronic CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Meyer
- Department of Psychiatry (Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Walter
- Department of Psychiatry (Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Borgwardt
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Alexandra Scheidegger
- Department of Psychiatry (Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Elisabeth Lang
- Department of Psychiatry (Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Köck
- Department of Psychiatry (Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Macatee RJ, Albanese BJ, Okey SA, Afshar K, Carr M, Rosenthal MZ, Schmidt NB, Cougle JR. Impact of a computerized intervention for high distress intolerance on cannabis use outcomes: A randomized controlled trial. J Subst Abuse Treat 2020; 121:108194. [PMID: 33357604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2020.108194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prevalence of regular cannabis use and cannabis use disorder (CUD) have increased in the past two decades, but treatment-seeking is low and extant brief interventions do not target causal risk factors implicated in etiological models of addiction. Elevated distress intolerance (DI) is one risk factor that has been empirically linked with greater CUD severity and maintenance in regular users, but, to our knowledge, research has never targeted it in a brief intervention among cannabis users with CUD or at high risk. The current RCT evaluated the impact of a DI intervention (i.e., Distress Tolerance Intervention [DTI]) compared to a healthy habits control intervention (i.e., Healthy Video Control [HVC]) on DI and cannabis use outcomes. METHOD We randomized cannabis users with high DI (N = 60) to the DTI or HVC condition and they received two computerized intervention sessions. We assessed relief cannabis craving at pre- and post-treatment; and we assessed DI, cannabis use coping motives, use-related problems, and use frequency at pre- and post-treatment as well as one- and four-month follow-ups. We assessed CUD symptoms via interviews at pre-treatment and four-month follow-up. RESULTS Significant, durable reductions in DI and all cannabis use outcomes occurred in both conditions. Compared to the HVC condition, the DTI led to greater reductions in use frequency during the treatment period. Reductions in self-reported DI were correlated with reductions in coping motives and CUD symptoms. CONCLUSION The DTI's impact on all outcomes was largely comparable to the control condition, though it may have utility as an adjunctive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah A Okey
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Kaveh Afshar
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Meghan Carr
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - M Zachary Rosenthal
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Norman B Schmidt
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Jesse R Cougle
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in devastating mortality and morbidity consisting of socioeconomic and health effects that have included respiratory/pulmonary, cardiovascular, mental health and neurological consequences such as anxiety, depression, and substance use. Extensive efforts are underway to develop preventive vaccines and therapeutics such as remdesivir, dexamethasone, convalescent plasma, and others to treat COVID-19 but many report residual mental health problems after recovery. Cannabis products such as cannabidiol (CBD) are being advertised for the treatment of COVID-19 associated mental health problems and substance use disorders. This commentary will briefly clear the myth that CBD can ameliorate a wide range of COVID-19 associated health effects including anxiety, depression, or any substance use disorder, and show that there is a clear lack of sufficient unbiased clinical evidence from well-designed double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials to prove the antianxiety or antidepression therapeutic properties of CBD and support its wide use as medicine to treat COVID-19- associated mental health conditions or substance use disorders. Finally, we suggest that addiction physicians must play an important role in dealing with their patients requesting CBD prescription for treating any of these conditions.
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Sholler DJ, Huestis MA, Amendolara B, Vandrey R, Cooper ZD. Therapeutic potential and safety considerations for the clinical use of synthetic cannabinoids. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 199:173059. [PMID: 33086126 PMCID: PMC7725960 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2020.173059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was isolated and synthesized in the 1960s. Since then, two synthetic cannabinoids (SCBs) targeting the cannabinoid 1 (CB1R) and 2 (CB2R) receptors were approved for medical use based on clinical safety and efficacy data: dronabinol (synthetic THC) and nabilone (synthetic THC analog). To probe the function of the endocannabinoid system further, hundreds of investigational compounds were developed; in particular, agonists with (1) greater CB1/2R affinity relative to THC and (2) full CB1/2R agonist activity. This pharmacological profile may pose greater risks for misuse and adverse effects relative to THC, and these SCBs proliferated in retail markets as legal alternatives to cannabis (e.g., novel psychoactive substances [NPS], "Spice," "K2"). These SCBs were largely outlawed in the U.S., but blanket policies that placed all SCB chemicals into restrictive control categories impeded research progress into novel mechanisms for SCB therapeutic development. There is a concerted effort to develop new, therapeutically useful SCBs that target novel pharmacological mechanisms. This review highlights the potential therapeutic efficacy and safety considerations for unique SCBs, including CB1R partial and full agonists, peripherally-restricted CB1R agonists, selective CB2R agonists, selective CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists, CB1R allosteric modulators, endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme inhibitors, and cannabidiol. We propose promising directions for SCB research that may optimize therapeutic efficacy and diminish potential for adverse events, for example, peripherally-restricted CB1R antagonists/inverse agonists and biased CB1/2R agonists. Together, these strategies could lead to the discovery of new, therapeutically useful SCBs with reduced negative public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis J Sholler
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin Amendolara
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Lintzeris N, Mills L, Dunlop A, Copeland J, Mcgregor I, Bruno R, Kirby A, Montebello M, Hall M, Jefferies M, Kevin R, Bhardwaj A. Cannabis use in patients 3 months after ceasing nabiximols for the treatment of cannabis dependence: Results from a placebo-controlled randomised trial. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 215:108220. [PMID: 32768992 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Previous studies suggest cannabinoid agonist treatment is effective in reducing cannabis use in dependent treatment seekers, however few studies have reported on post-treatment outcomes. We examine cannabis use outcomes 12 weeks after cessation of treatment from a randomised placebo-controlled trial of nabiximols for the treatment of cannabis dependence. METHOD 128 participants received either nabiximols (n = 61) or placebo (n = 67) for 12 weeks, in combination with psychosocial interventions. Self-reported number of days of cannabis use in the previous 28 days was measured at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks (end of treatment) and again at 24 weeks (3 months after treatment ceased). Urinalysis was used to confirm self-report data at Week 24 interview. RESULTS A factorial mixed-effects model for repeated measures regression revealed that the nabiximols group used cannabis on 6.8 fewer days in the previous 28 days at week 12 (end of treatment) than the placebo group (p = 0.002, CI: 2.1,11.4), and 6.7 fewer days in the previous 28 days at the week-24 follow-up than the placebo group (p = 0.006, CI: 1.4,12.1). A significantly higher proportion of the nabiximols group (14/61; 23 %) than the placebo group (6/67; 9%) reported abstinence from cannabis in the previous 28 days at the week-24 research interview OR=3.0, CI: 1.1, 9.1; p=0.035, NNT=8, CI: 4, 71). DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSIONS The benefits of treatment incorporating nabiximols with psychosocial interventions in reducing cannabis use appears to persist for up to 3 months after the cessation of treatment. A stepped care model of treatment is proposed. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616000103460) https://www.anzctr.org.au.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Lintzeris
- Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia; Division Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Australia.
| | - Llewellyn Mills
- Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia; Division Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Australia
| | - Adrian Dunlop
- NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Australia; Drug and Alcohol Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, NSW, Australia; Priority Research Centre for Brain and Mental Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Iain Mcgregor
- Lambert Initiative Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Adrienne Kirby
- National Health and Medical Research Council, Clinical Trials Centre, Faculty Medicine and Public Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Montebello
- Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia; Division Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Australia; University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Hall
- NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Australia; Drug and Alcohol Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, NSW, Australia
| | - Meryem Jefferies
- NSW Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Australia; Drug Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard Kevin
- Lambert Initiative Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anjali Bhardwaj
- Drug and Alcohol Services, South East Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia; Division Addiction Medicine, Faculty Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; National Health and Medical Research Council, Clinical Trials Centre, Faculty Medicine and Public Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Cannabidiol for the treatment of cannabis use disorder: a phase 2a, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised, adaptive Bayesian trial. Lancet Psychiatry 2020; 7:865-874. [PMID: 32735782 PMCID: PMC7116091 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30290-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Background A substantial and unmet clinical need exists for pharmacological treatment of cannabis use disorders. Cannabidiol could offer a novel treatment, but it is unclear which doses might be efficacious or safe. Therefore, we aimed to identify efficacious doses and eliminate inefficacious doses in a phase 2a trial using an adaptive Bayesian design. METHODS We did a phase 2a, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised, adaptive Bayesian trial at the Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit (University College London, London, UK). We used an adaptive Bayesian dose-finding design to identify efficacious or inefficacious doses at a-priori interim and final analysis stages. Participants meeting cannabis use disorder criteria from DSM-5 were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1) in the first stage of the trial to 4-week treatment with three different doses of oral cannabidiol (200 mg, 400 mg, or 800 mg) or with matched placebo during a cessation attempt by use of a double-blinded block randomisation sequence. All participants received a brief psychological intervention of motivational interviewing. For the second stage of the trial, new participants were randomly assigned to placebo or doses deemed efficacious in the interim analysis. The primary objective was to identify the most efficacious dose of cannabidiol for reducing cannabis use. The primary endpoints were lower urinary 11-nor-9-carboxy-δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH):creatinine ratio, increased days per week with abstinence from cannabis during treatment, or both, evidenced by posterior probabilities that cannabidiol is better than placebo exceeding 0·9. All analyses were done on an intention-to-treat basis. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02044809) and the EU Clinical Trials Register (2013-000361-36). FINDINGS Between May 28, 2014, and Aug 12, 2015 (first stage), 48 participants were randomly assigned to placebo (n=12) and to cannabidiol 200 mg (n=12), 400 mg (n=12), and 800 mg (n=12). At interim analysis, cannabidiol 200 mg was eliminated from the trial as an inefficacious dose. Between May 24, 2016, and Jan 12, 2017 (second stage), randomisation continued and an additional 34 participants were allocated (1:1:1) to cannabidiol 400 mg (n=12), cannabidiol 800 mg (n=11), and placebo (n=11). At final analysis, cannabidiol 400 mg and 800 mg exceeded primary endpoint criteria (0·9) for both primary outcomes. For urinary THC-COOH:creatinine ratio, the probability of being the most efficacious dose compared with placebo given the observed data was 0·9995 for cannabidiol 400 mg and 0·9965 for cannabidiol 800 mg. For days with abstinence from cannabis, the probability of being the most efficacious dose compared with placebo given the observed data was 0·9966 for cannabidiol 400 mg and 0·9247 for cannabidiol 800 mg. Compared with placebo, cannabidiol 400 mg decreased THC-COOH:creatinine ratio by -94·21 ng/mL (95% interval estimate -161·83 to -35·56) and increased abstinence from cannabis by 0·48 days per week (0·15 to 0·82). Compared with placebo, cannabidiol 800 mg decreased THC-COOH:creatinine ratio by -72·02 ng/mL (-135·47 to -19·52) and increased abstinence from cannabis by 0·27 days per week (-0·09 to 0·64). Cannabidiol was well tolerated, with no severe adverse events recorded, and 77 (94%) of 82 participants completed treatment. INTERPRETATION In the first randomised clinical trial of cannabidiol for cannabis use disorder, cannabidiol 400 mg and 800 mg were safe and more efficacious than placebo at reducing cannabis use. FUNDING Medical Research Council.
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Freeman TP, Hindocha C, Baio G, Curran HV. Cannabidiol for cannabis use disorder: too high hopes? - Authors' reply. Lancet Psychiatry 2020; 7:840. [PMID: 32949514 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30376-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tom P Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, UK; Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Chandni Hindocha
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, UK; Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Research Department of Mental Health Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Gianluca Baio
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - H Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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Loflin MJE, Kiluk BD, Huestis MA, Aklin WM, Budney AJ, Carroll KM, D'Souza DC, Dworkin RH, Gray KM, Hasin DS, Lee DC, Le Foll B, Levin FR, Lile JA, Mason BJ, McRae-Clark AL, Montoya I, Peters EN, Ramey T, Turk DC, Vandrey R, Weiss RD, Strain EC. The state of clinical outcome assessments for cannabis use disorder clinical trials: A review and research agenda. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 212:107993. [PMID: 32360455 PMCID: PMC7293929 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is considerable variability in the use of outcome measures in clinical trials for cannabis use disorder (CUD), and a lack of consensus regarding optimal outcomes may have hindered development and approval of new pharmacotherapies. The goal of this paper is to summarize an evaluation of assessment measures and clinical endpoints for CUD clinical trials, and propose a research agenda and priorities to improve CUD clinical outcome assessments. The primary recommendation is that sustained abstinence from cannabis should not be considered the primary outcome for all CUD clinical trials as it has multiple limitations. However, there are multiple challenges to the development of a reliable and valid indicator of cannabis reduction, including the lack of a standard unit of measure for the various forms of cannabis and products and the limitations of currently available biological and self-report assessments. Development of a core toolkit of assessments is needed to both allow flexibility for study design, while facilitating interpretation of outcomes across trials. Four primary agenda items for future research are identified to expedite development of improved clinical outcome assessments for this toolkit: (1) determine whether minimally invasive biologic assays could identify an acute level of cannabis use associated with psychomotor impairment or other cannabis-related harms; (2) create an indicator of quantity of cannabis use that is consistent across product types; (3) examine the presence of cannabis-specific functional outcomes; and (4) identify an optimal duration to assess changes in CUD diagnostic criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory J E Loflin
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States; San Diego Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92161, United States
| | - Brian D Kiluk
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States.
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- The Lambert Center for the Study of Medicinal Cannabis and Hemp, Thomas Jefferson University, 4201 Henry Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144, United States
| | - Will M Aklin
- NIH/NIDA Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
| | - Alan J Budney
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 1 Rope Ferry Rd, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Kathleen M Carroll
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Deepak Cyril D'Souza
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Robert H Dworkin
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Kevin M Gray
- Medical University of South Carolina, 67 President St, MSC861, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Deborah S Hasin
- Columbia University Medical Center, 722 W. 168(th) St, New York, NY 10027, United States
| | - Dustin C Lee
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and University of Toronto, 33 Russell St, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Frances R Levin
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Joshua A Lile
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 800 Rose Street MN 150, Lexington, KY 40506, United States
| | - Barbara J Mason
- The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
| | - Aimee L McRae-Clark
- Medical University of South Carolina, 67 President St, MSC861, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Ivan Montoya
- NIH/NIDA Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
| | - Erica N Peters
- Battelle Memorial Institute, 6115 Falls Rd #200, Baltimore, MD 21209, United States
| | - Tatiana Ramey
- NIH/NIDA Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
| | - Dennis C Turk
- University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Ryan Vandrey
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Roger D Weiss
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, United States; McLean Hospital, 115 Mill St, Belmont, MA 02478, United States
| | - Eric C Strain
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
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Lucet C, Olié JP. [Addictive behaviors: Clinical facts]. BULLETIN DE L ACADEMIE NATIONALE DE MEDECINE 2020; 204:551-560. [PMID: 32296241 PMCID: PMC7158801 DOI: 10.1016/j.banm.2020.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Malgré les fréquentes comorbidités psychiatriques, le trouble de l’usage de substance doit être appréhendé comme une pathologie autonome par ses déterminants, sa sémiologie et ses modalités évolutives spontanées ou sous traitement. De multiples produits de synthèse sont désormais accessibles via internet : associé à la créativité des chimistes cela a participé à l’émergence de pratiques inédites allant du chemsex au purple drank. Les conduites addictives résultent d’un ensemble de facteurs individuels (vulnérabilités biologique et psychique) et contextuels (disponibilité et banalisation du toxique dans l’environnement). Les pathologies mentales autres sont des facteurs de vulnérabilité à la pathologie addictive, tout comme les conduites addictives peuvent révéler une pathologie émotionnelle ou psychotique. Le médecin se doit d’entendre l’impuissance du malade face au besoin irrépressible de consommer (craving) et proposer une thérapeutique qui peut être chimique (y compris traitement de substitution) et psychologique. Dans la majorité des cas, un accompagnement social s’impose pour corriger les effets désocialisants du trouble de l’usage de substances ou des comportements addictifs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lucet
- Service addictologie, hôpital Sainte-Anne, Paris, France
| | - J P Olié
- Académie nationale de médecine, 16, rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, France
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