The Blunt Truth: Cannabis for COVID-19?

Authors

Desiree K. Goodson, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Administrative

Advisor

Dr. Thomas Colletti

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the literature on the use of cannabis for the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

Method: PubMed was used from a broad perspective utilizing MeSH terms and the MeSH database to evaluate data published through August 2022. Google Scholar was also utilized. A review of the topic articles was read and researched.

Results: The results of the literature search led to review articles that discussed the rationale and potential use of cannabis for COVID-19. There is much literature about the hypothesis of how and why cannabis may be beneficial for COVID-19. Unfortunately, there is only one randomized controlled trial that has been completed involving cannabidiol and additional clinical trials are needed. There is a lack of evidence-based research in humans to indicate that any form of cannabis is an appropriate treatment for treating or preventing COVID-19.

Conclusion: Cannabis, in many forms, is postulated to be a candidate for the treatment of COVID-19. There are several FDA-approved products that include cannabinoids used to treat two rare seizure forms, nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, and anorexia with weight loss for patients suffering from the human immunodeficiency virus. There is no form of cannabis that is FDA approved to treat COVID-19, but further clinical research continues to be done.

Recommended Citation

Goodson DK. The Blunt Truth: Cannabis for COVID-19?. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2023; 5(1).