The pace of cannabis research continues to escalate as we’ve hit midway through 2018. Perhaps unsurprisingly, cannabidiol (CBD) continues to be a hot topic in medicine. Here are five medical research studies from the last quarter that made particularly important strides.
Studies at a Glance:
- CBD Treats Brain Changes Caused by Regular Cannabis Use
- Transdermal CBD for the Treatment of Non-Opioid Addictions
- Plant-Derived Cannabinoids Improve the Efficacy of Cancer Treatment
- CBD’s Fast-Acting, Long-Lasting Antidepressant Effects in Rodents
- Cannabis-Based Pharmaceutical Improves Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
CBD Treats Brain Changes Caused by Regular Cannabis Use
Regular THC-rich cannabis use can change the way the brain functions. These changes are not always for the better, and they often involve changes to a particular brain region known as the hippocampus.
The hippocampus is involved in many brain functions including cognitive performance, control over anxiety, and resilience to stressors. Studies that have imaged the brain by MRI have revealed that regular THC-rich cannabis use alters the structure of the hippocampus. However, it’s becoming increasingly appreciated that CBD can protect the brain against THC’s effects, and therefore, may serve as a protective tool to prevent THC-induced changes or help the brain recover.
