1. Introduction
Cannabidiol (CBD) has captivated the attention of doctors, researchers and the general public due to its diverse therapeutic properties, ranging from anti-inflammatory to anxiolytic . However, although its benefits are promising, its use in specific populations such as pregnant women, children and adolescents remains questionable. This article aims to examine the risks associated with the use of CBD in these age groups based on available scientific data.
2. Risks Associated with CBD in Pregnant Women
Molecular Mechanisms
The endocannabinoid system plays a key role in embryonic and fetal development. Studies show that cannabinoids can disrupt this system and, therefore, affect fetal brain formation (Zamberletti et al., 2012). Cannabinoids like CBD may also inhibit the production of certain proteins necessary for fetal development.
Physiological Risks
Exposure to CBD during pregnancy is associated with physiological risks such as premature birth, low fetal weight gain, and developmental abnormalities (Gunn et al., 2016).
3. CBD in Children and Adolescents
State of Research
Although some clinical trials have examined the use of CBD to treat specific conditions in children, such as Dravet epilepsy, these studies are limited and often focused on very specific cases.
Impact on Brain Development
The brain continues to develop until the age of 25, and the introduction of exogenous substances like CBD could have consequences on this development. Potential effects include changes in neural connections, which could lead to behavioral or learning disorders.
4. Notable Exceptions: Dravet Epilepsy and Other Conditions
In some cases, notably in the treatment of Dravet's epilepsy, the administration of CBD has been considered after careful assessment of the benefit-risk ratio (Devinsky et al., 2017). However, this process should always be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional.
Dravet epilepsy , also known as Dravet syndrome or severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI) , is a rare and severe form of epilepsy that usually begins in the first year of life.
5. Conclusion
Although CBD has clear therapeutic potential, its use in pregnant women, children and adolescents should be approached with caution. Due to insufficient clinical studies and potential risks associated with the use of CBD in these groups, it is strongly recommended to consult a physician before starting any CBD treatment.
References
- Zamberletti, E., Gabaglio, M., & Parolaro, D. (2012). The Endocannabinoid System and Brain Development: Focus on CB1 Receptor. Frontiers in Psychiatry .
- Gunn, JKL, Rosales, CB, Center, KE, Nuñez, A., Gibson, SJ, Christ, C., & Ehiri, JE (2016). Prenatal exposure to cannabis and maternal and child health outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open .
- Devinsky, O., Cross, J.H., & Wright, S. (2017). Trial of Cannabidiol for Drug-Resistant Seizures in the Dravet Syndrome. New England Journal of Medicine .
NB: This content is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice. If in doubt, please consult a healthcare professional.