Cannabidiol in medicine: a review of its therapeutic potential in CNS disorders

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the main non-psychotropic component of the glandular hairs of Cannabis saliva. It displays a plethora of actions including anticonvulsive, sedative, hypnotic, antipsychotic, antiinflammatory and neuroprotective properties. However, it is well established that CBD produces its biological effects without exerting significant intrinsic activity upon cannabinoid receptors. For this reason, CBD lacks the unwanted psychotropic effects characteristic of marijuana derivatives, so representing one of the bioactive constituents of Cannabis saliva with the highest potential for therapeutic use. The present review reports the pharmacological profile of CBD and summarizes results from preclinical and clinical studies utilizing CBD, alone or in combination with other phytocannabinoids, for the treatment of a number of CNS disorders. Copyright (C) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.