The latest scientific research into medical cannabis covers various topics, such as cultivation techniques, therapeutic potential, delivery systems, and regulatory issues. Here are some of the highlights from the recent literature:

The review article by Zirpel et al.³ provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge and challenges of cannabis cultivation, from genetics and breeding to harvesting and processing. The authors also discuss the need for standardization, quality control, and sustainability in cannabis production, as well as the future directions and opportunities for research and innovation.

– The randomized controlled trial by Portenoy et al.¹ evaluates the efficacy and safety of a cannabis-based medicine (Sativex) for the treatment of chronic pain in patients with advanced cancer. Sativex is a sublingual spray that contains a 1:1 ratio of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), two of the main active compounds in cannabis. The results show that Sativex significantly reduced pain intensity and improved quality of life compared to placebo, with no serious adverse events or withdrawal symptoms. The trial involved 263 patients from 14 sites in the U.S. and lasted for five weeks.

– The systematic review and meta-analysis by Marinelli et al.² assesses the effects of cannabis-based medicines on spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Spasticity is a common symptom of MS that causes muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain. The authors analyzed 17 studies that compared cannabis-based medicines (such as Sativex, nabiximols, or smoked cannabis) with placebo or other treatments. The findings indicate that cannabis-based medicines are effective and well-tolerated for reducing spasticity and spasms, but not for improving mobility or bladder function. The review involved 3,161 patients from various countries and lasted for up to 15 weeks.

– The research article by Singh et al.⁴ reports the development and characterization of a novel transdermal patch for delivering CBD to the skin. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. The patch consists of a biodegradable polymer matrix containing CBD nanoparticles and a permeation enhancer. The patch shows high CBD loading, stability, and permeability, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The article also presents the results of an animal study that demonstrates the patch’s ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in a mouse model of skin injury.

– The policy analysis by Mead et al. examines the impact of the 2018 Farm Bill on the regulation and research of hemp-derived CBD products in the U.S. Hemp is a variety of cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. The bill removed hemp from the list of controlled substances and legalized its cultivation, production, and sale. However, the bill also created a legal gray area for CBD products, resulting in confusion, inconsistency, and uncertainty among regulators, producers, and consumers. The authors argue that the bill did not adequately address the issues of safety, quality, labeling, testing, and marketing of CBD products. They also call for more clarity, coordination, and oversight to ensure the safety and quality of CBD products.

(1) Journal of Cannabis Research | Medical cannabis – BioMed Central. https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/sections/medical-cannabis.

(2) Five Cannabis Research Trends to Watch in 2023 – Lab Manager. https://www.labmanager.com/big-picture/the-case-for-cannabis/five-cannabis-research-trends-to-watch-in-2023-29655.

(3) Cannabis Research and Scientific Updates 2023 | The Cannigma. https://cannigma.com/research/.

(4) Biden Signs Medical Marijuana Research Bill – Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/dariosabaghi/2022/12/03/biden-signs-medical-marijuana-research-bill/.