1. Description of fibromyalgia (152)
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that primarily affects the bones and muscles. It is characterized by diffuse neuropathic pain (stinging burns), intense fatigue , but also problems with sleep , memory and appetite . This pathology therefore has an impact on daily life, especially since the symptoms are almost permanent.
2. Action of CBD in the treatment of fibromyalgia
Cannabidiol (CBD) will have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic action, and it will also tend to improve homeostatic balance (appetite, sleep). Although there are few studies on the use of cannabinoids in fibromyalgia, a 2011 study found a significant reduction in pain levels and muscle stiffness, as well as an improvement in comfort . (153)
An Israeli study published in 2018 recruited 26 fibromyalgia patients who they treated with cannabis (not specifically CBD) for 11 months. All patients reported large improvements in all measured parameters and 50% of patients stopped taking any other fibromyalgia medications . (154)
Another study showed that CBD reduces the increased activity of astrocytes, found in several pathologies. Astrocytes are glial cells of the central nervous system, which protect neurons. CBD could therefore be a promising target for astrocyte-mediated neuroregulation. (155)
In addition to its analgesic action , CBD helps relieve other symptoms linked to fibromyalgia, such as sleep disorders , anxiety and depression.
Quotes:
152. Fibromyalgia | ameli.fr | Insured [Internet]. [cited Oct 30, 2020]. Available at: https://www.ameli.fr/assure/sante/themes/fibromyalgie
153. Fiz J, Durán M, Capellà D, Carbonell J, Farré M. Cannabis Use in Patients with Fibromyalgia: Effect on Symptoms Relief and Health-Related Quality of Life. PLoS ONE [Internet]. 2011 Apr 21 [cited 2020 Oct 30];6(4). Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3080871/
154. Habib G, Artul S. Medical Cannabis for the Treatment of Fibromyalgia . J Clin Rheumatol Pract Rep Rheum Musculoskelet Dis. August 2018;24(5):255‐8.
155. Kozela E, Juknat A, Vogel Z. Modulation of Astrocyte Activity by Cannabidiol, a Nonpsychoactive Cannabinoid . Int J Mol Sci. Jul 31, 2017;18(8).