Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a naturally occurring chemical present in hemp and cannabis plants. Unlike its more famous cousin, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not have psychoactive effects and does not produce a high.
What Is Glioblastoma And What Are The Current Treatment Options?
Glioblastoma is a type of brain tumor that is very difficult to treat. The current standard treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. While these treatments can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve symptoms, they are often not able to cure it. The median survival time for people with glioblastoma is around 15 months, and the five-year survival rate is less than 5%.
CBD For Treating Glioblastoma – The Potential
There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may have the potential as a treatment for glioblastoma. The anti-tumor effects of CBD have been shown in preclinical studies, meaning it may be able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It may do this by reducing inflammation, inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that feed tumors (angiogenesis), and inducing programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells.
CBD may also have a synergistic effect when used in combination with other cancer treatments. For example, one study found that CBD enhanced the effectiveness of temozolomide, a chemotherapy drug commonly used to treat glioblastoma, in a mouse model of the disease. Another study found that CBD may help to reduce the side effects of radiation therapy, such as nausea and vomiting.
The Need For More Research
While the potential of CBD as a treatment for glioblastoma is promising, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and determine the optimal dose and route of administration. Currently, there are no clinical trials testing the use of CBD as a standalone treatment for glioblastoma in humans.
Conclusion
The use of CBD as a treatment for glioblastoma is still in the early stages of research. While the current evidence is encouraging, more studies are needed to determine its safety and effectiveness in humans. If you are considering using CBD to treat glioblastoma, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider first to determine if it is appropriate for you and to discuss any potential risks or interactions with other medications.