The use of medicinal cannabis in the management of patients with anxiety disorders
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v8i19.2601Keywords:
medicinal cannabis, cannabidiol, anxiety disorders, THC, treatmentAbstract
This study aims to analyze the use of medicinal Cannabis in the management of patients with anxiety disorders, addressing its therapeutic efficacy, mechanisms of action, and limitations in the current literature. A narrative literature review was conducted, including clinical and preclinical studies, systematic reviews, and behavioral research investigating cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for anxiety treatment. Results indicate that CBD consistently demonstrates anxiolytic effects in both animal models and humans, modulating serotonergic (5-HT1A) and cannabinoid (CB1) receptors, TRPV channels, and epigenetic mechanisms. THC, although potentially therapeutic in combination with CBD, may produce paradoxical and anxiogenic effects at high doses. Clinical studies report reductions in anxiety symptoms, improved quality of life, and in some cases, decreased use of benzodiazepines. However, significant methodological heterogeneity, dose variability, differences in Cannabis strains, and gaps regarding long-term safety and efficacy were observed. In conclusion, medicinal Cannabis, particularly CBD, represents a promising alternative for anxiety disorder treatment, yet further controlled and standardized clinical studies are necessary to establish safe and effective therapeutic protocols.
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