The Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol in Parkinson's Disease: A Review of Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Effects

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to investigate the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of cannabidiol (CBD) in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). Specifically, it focuses on understanding the role of CBD in managing motor and non-motor symptoms and its neuroprotective properties. Study Design: This research is a literature review. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the University of Gurupi, Paraíso do Tocantins, TO, in 2023. Methodology: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as Medline (PubMed), Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS), and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO). Articles published in Portuguese and English were included. The search terms used were "Parkinson's Disease," "CBD," and "Treatment." The selection criteria focused on studies exploring the mechanisms of action, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties of CBD in the context of PD. Articles unrelated to the use of CBD for PD treatment or not exclusively focusing on CBD administration were excluded. Results: The review included findings from seven scientific articles. Key outcomes indicate that CBD exhibits neuroprotective effects, reduces global symptom scores, and does not produce adverse motor effects. Notably, CBD was found to protect against cell death induced by neurotoxins like MPP+ and provide potential anti-inflammatory benefits by modulating cytokine release. Conclusion: CBD shows promise as a therapeutic agent in PD due to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. However, the clinical use of CBD remains limited and controversial, requiring further research to validate its efficacy and safety in treating PD. This summary provides an overview of the findings and methodologies covered in the full text, highlighting the potential and challenges of using CBD in Parkinson's disease treatment.