(−)-Cannabidiol

Overview

(−)-Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid discovered in 1940. It is one of the 113 identified cannabinoids in Cannabis plants and accounts for up to 40% of the plant's extract. Unlike its more famous counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the "high" associated with cannabis use.

Chemical Structure and Properties

CBD is a bicyclic compound with the molecular formula C₂₁H₃₀O₂. It is a crystalline solid at room temperature and is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and hexane. The compound has a melting point of 66 °C (151 °F) and a boiling point of 180 °C (356 °F) under reduced pressure.

Pharmacology

CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating a range of physiological processes including mood, memory, appetite, and pain sensation. Unlike THC, CBD has a low affinity for the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor but acts as an indirect antagonist of cannabinoid agonists. It is also known to modulate the activity of several non-cannabinoid receptors and ion channels, such as the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A and the vanilloid receptor TRPV1.

Therapeutic Uses

CBD has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in a variety of conditions, including:

• Epilepsy: CBD is approved by the FDA in the form of Epidiolex for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.
• Anxiety disorders: Preliminary research suggests that CBD may help reduce anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Chronic pain: CBD is being investigated for its potential to alleviate chronic pain, particularly in conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
• Neurodegenerative diseases: There is ongoing research into the neuroprotective properties of CBD, with studies exploring its use in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Legal Status

The legal status of CBD varies widely across the world. In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production of hemp and hemp-derived products, including CBD, provided they contain less than 0.3% THC. However, the FDA has not approved CBD for any use other than the treatment of epilepsy.

Safety and Side Effects

CBD is generally well-tolerated, with a good safety profile. Common side effects include dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications, so it is important for patients to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if they are taking other drugs.

Research and Future Directions

Research into CBD is ongoing, with studies exploring its potential benefits in a wide range of medical conditions. Future research is likely to focus on understanding the mechanisms of action of CBD, optimizing its therapeutic use, and exploring its effects in combination with other cannabinoids and treatments.

Also see

• Cannabis sativa
• Cannabinoid receptor
• Endocannabinoid system
• Tetrahydrocannabinol
• Epidiolex