The Use of Cannabidiol in Metabolic Syndrome—An Opportunity to Improve the Patient’s Health or Much Ado about Nothing?

Abstract

Cannabis-derived therapies are gaining popularity in the medical world. More and more perfect forms of cannabinoids are sought, which could be used in the treatment of many common diseases, including metabolic syndrome, whose occurrence is also increasing. The purpose of this review was to investigate the usefulness of cannabinoids, mainly cannabidiol (CBD), in individuals with obesity, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, high blood pressure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We summarised the most recent research on the broad topic of cannabis-derived influence on metabolic syndrome components. Since there is a lot of work on the effects of Δ9-THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) on metabolism and far less on cannabidiol, we felt it needed to be sorted out and summarised in this review. The research results on the use of cannabidiol in obesity are contraindicatory. When it comes to glucose homeostasis, it appears that CBD maintains it, sensitises adipose tissue to insulin, and reduces fasting glucose levels, so it seems to be a potential target in this kind of metabolic disorder, but some research results are inconclusive. CBD shows some promising results in the treatment of various lipid disorders. Some studies have proven its positive effect by decreasing LDL and increasing HDL as well. Despite their probable efficacy, CBD and its derivatives will likely remain an adjunctive treatment rather than a mainstay of therapy. Studies have also shown that CBD in patients with hypertension has positive effects, even though the hypotensive properties of cannabidiol are small. However, CBD can be used to prevent blood pressure surges, stabilise them, and have a protective effect on blood vessels. Results from preclinical studies have shown that the effect of cannabidiol on NAFLD may be potentially beneficial in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome and its components. Nevertheless, there is limited data on CBD and NAFLD in human studies. Because of the numerous confounding factors, the conclusions are unclear, and more research in this field is required.

How Does CBG Administration Affect Sphingolipid Deposition in the Liver of Insulin-Resistant Rats?

“…The main causes of such a situation are changes in lipid metabolism and the deposition of various lipid fractions such as sphingolipids. A similar conclusion was drawn by the Cinar et al, who found that in obese mice, intensified ceramide synthesis through the stimulation of the CB1 receptor in hepatocytes caused hepatic insulin resistance development [29,36].…”

From bench to bedside: the application of cannabidiol in glioma

“…Moreover, CBD may cause hypotension and dizziness, which in certain instances could lead to falls and injuries [ 118 ]. CBD might also affect immune system function, although its exact mechanisms and clinical significance remain not entirely clear.…”