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Cannabinoids as Emergent Therapy Against COVID-19
Joseph McGrail1, Lucía Martín-Banderas1, Matilde Durán-Lobato1
1Department Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain.
Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research
|May 5, 2022
Summary
Cannabinoids show promise for treating and preventing COVID-19 due to their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Further research is needed for their clinical implementation against SARS-CoV-2.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, necessitates novel therapeutic strategies beyond vaccines and existing drugs.
- Cannabinoids possess demonstrated immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral characteristics relevant to COVID-19.
- Existing treatments for COVID-19 are insufficient, highlighting the need for alternative approaches.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current research on cannabinoid applications for COVID-19 treatment and prevention.
- It examines the immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties of cannabinoids in disease models.
- The review also considers the practical aspects of cannabinoid-based therapy implementation.
Key Points:
- Cannabinoids exhibit potential therapeutic benefits against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory actions may mitigate COVID-19-related pathology.
- Antiviral properties suggest a role in both treatment and prevention strategies.
Conclusions:
- Cannabinoids represent a promising therapeutic avenue for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
- The immunomodulatory and antiviral effects of cannabinoids warrant continued research and development.
- Successful clinical translation of cannabinoid-based therapies for COVID-19 depends on addressing implementation challenges.
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