Cannabis, CBD and Diabetes: Benefits and Risks

Some studies suggest that people with obesity, common in type 2 diabetes, have reduced functionality of CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. In research, it has been seen that in diabetic states, these receptors are less intensely activated. This indicates a possible link between the endocannabinoid system and metabolic problems such as insulin resistance and chronic inflammation.

This observation was supported by a study involving 501 children with obesity in Italy, where compromised CB2 receptor functionality was found. Children who received treatments with selective CB2 agonists showed a reversal of obesity-induced inflammatory states. These findings suggest that CB2 receptor modulation could be a potential strategy to treat inflammation and other metabolic problems related to obesity and diabetes.

Cannabis and CBD and Diabetes: Current Research

Arguably, there are currently two main perspectives on the use of medical cannabis in diabetes: one for and one against. Some studies suggest that it may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, while others suggest that it may increase appetite and weight, which could worsen type 2 diabetes. In both cases, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of cannabis and individual cannabinoids in particular, and to determine their safety and efficacy.

The drug Rimonabant, a CB1 receptor antagonist, showed benefits in weight reduction and improved metabolic markers, but was withdrawn from the market due to severe neuropsychiatric side effects, linked to suicide. This highlights the importance of targeting peripheral CB1 receptors to avoid risks. Current studies on compounds such as CBD, which modulate the endocannabinoid system without psychoactive effects, such as CBD or cannabidiol, show promise for treating diabetes-related metabolic syndrome.

Evidence Supporting the Use of Cannabinoids in Diabetes

Some studies have found that cannabis users are less likely to develop diabetes, despite the fact that cannabis can increase appetite. These findings suggest that cannabis may have a regulatory effect on metabolism, reducing the risk of diabetes.

Cannabinoids are also known to affect various metabolic pathways that influence blood sugar and insulin levels, which may explain why some studies have found that cannabis users have lower fasting insulin levels and lower insulin resistance, which may help prevent diabetes.

Research conducted at Harvard Medical School has found that cannabis can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels.

In particular, CBD, the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, has shown potential in protecting insulin-producing pancreatic cells, suggesting potential benefits in the management and prevention of diabetes.

Despite these results, it should be noted that in all cases these are preliminary studies, more solid scientific evidence is lacking, and until more studies are done, it is not possible to affirm these properties. Patients are advised to consult their medical specialist before considering the use of CBD.

Cannabinoids for Diabetes: Current Research

Research on cannabinoids for diabetes is still at a preliminary stage. Some studies suggest that certain cannabinoids may improve glucose regulation and reduce inflammation, but more research is needed to fully understand their effects and determine their safety and efficacy in the treatment of diabetes. Here is a review of current research:

CBD and its Promising Role for Diabetes

CBD or cannabidiol shows potential in diabetes management by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation, although more research is needed to confirm its benefits and safety.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)

THCV is a cannabinoid found in small amounts in cannabis, with the ability to reduce appetite and alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress. On a more technical level, it acts as a CB1 receptor antagonist and CB2 receptor agonist. Preliminary studies have shown that THCV, even at low doses, can decrease food intake and body weight. In addition, research in 2013 found that THCV improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, suggesting its potential in the treatment of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. These benefits were confirmed in a subsequent clinical trial with diabetic patients, improving their blood sugar control.

THCA and its Potential for Diabetes

In 2020, a study in animal models on the effects of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), the non-psychoactive precursor of THC, found that THCA significantly reduced obesity-induced fat mass and body weight gain. In addition, THCA improved glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, and prevented liver problems such as steatosis. Being a partial modulator of PPARγ receptors, THCA showed less activity on fat formation compared to other drugs such as rosiglitazone (oral antidiabetic), highlighting its potential in the treatment of diabetes. These results suggest the potential of THCA in the treatment of diabetes, although further research is warranted.

Ultimately, key cannabinoids, including CBD, THCV and THCA, as well as agents that inhibit peripheral CB1 receptors or activate CB2 receptors, and possibly GPR55 and GPR119 receptor agonists, are at the forefront of preclinical research. These compounds show significant therapeutic potential, highlighting the growing interest in harnessing their mechanisms for the management of diabetes.

Conclusions on the Use of Cannabis and CBD in Diabetes

Both cannabis and CBD are not currently approved medications for diabetes, and in case of diabetes, a specialist should be consulted before taking CBD or cannabis, in order to obtain professional advice and monitor dosages and possible interactions and effects.

What has been described here is that there are promising epidemiological findings and emerging clinical evidence on the potential of cannabis and its components for diabetes. Hopefully, in the coming years we will have more information and studies to deepen our understanding of the potential of cannabinoids to improve diabetes care.

The information in this article is adapted from Cannabiscentia’s Manual of Cannabinology Principles, by Viola Brugnatelli and Fabio Turco and Prohibition Partners. A guide on medical cannabis and cannabinoids for healthcare professionals where the European medical cannabis landscape is extensively covered. The second edition is now available.

Note: This is an informative article with no prescriptive character, it is not intended to prevent, diagnose or treat any disease. Its content can complement, but should never replace, the diagnosis or treatment of any disease or symptom. Cannactiva products are not medicines and are intended for external use. There may be new relevant scientific evidence since the date of publication. Consult with your physician before using CBD. The therapeutic approach must always be personalized and depends on the professional assessment.

In a 2006 animal study, it was shown that administration of CBD at a dose of 5 mg/kg daily significantly reduced the incidence of hereditary diabetes in a mouse model. In this study, 86% of the control group developed diabetes, compared to only 30% of the CBD-treated mice, indicating not only a lower incidence, but also a delayed onset of the disease.

Other studies corroborated these findings. Furthermore, in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes induced by a high-fat diet, control subjects developed diabetes by week 17, while the majority of CBD-treated mice remained diabetes-free until week 24.

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