What are CBMPs and Why I Advocate for Their Use in Certain Circumstances
In this blog, I will share some basic information about Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products (CBMPs) and why I support their use in specific cases.
CBMPs are medicines derived from cannabis and have been legal in the UK since late 2018. These products target receptors (which I’ll discuss shortly) within the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), and What Does It Do?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), discovered over 30 years ago, is believed to exist in almost all vertebrate species. To put it simply, the ECS helps maintain balance in various bodily functions—ranging from our immune system, appetite, and sleep to pain regulation. It consists of receptors (CB1 and CB2), naturally produced compounds called endocannabinoids, and enzymes that break them down.
1- Receptors
The two main types of receptors in the ECS are CB1 and CB2.
- CB1 receptors are predominantly found in the central nervous system and are involved in regulating processes such as memory, pain, and motor functions.
- CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are mainly located in the immune system. These receptors play a key role in reducing inflammation and are thought to enhance cellular responses.
2- Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are naturally produced by the human body, but they are unique in that they are produced ‘on demand; rather than stored for later use. When produced, they act as neurotransmitters and interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
3- Enzymes
The body uses enzymes to break down endocannabinoids after they’ve interacted with receptors, allowing the system to reset and maintain balance
How Do CBMPs Work with the Endocannabinoid System?
Well, the name may be a little give away here, but cannabis contains phytocannabinoids, which basically means cannabinoids created by plants, that either aid or mimic the bodies natural ECS, which is where the main two components of CBMP’s come into play, THC and CBD.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is what we commonly know as the compound that gives cannabis the ‘psychoactive effect’ and this is the compound that works with the CB1 receptor.
It’s important to note that when consumed compliantly, medicinal cannabis’ psychoactive effects will differ greatly from when consumed recreationally with the effect much less prominent.
CBD (Cannabinol) unlike THC, is non-psychoactive and doesn’t directly bind to the CB1 or CB2 receptors. However, CBD regulates the activity of these receptors and enhances cell signalling in the ECS. CBD is also known for its anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it a valuable part of treatment plans involving CBMPs for various health conditions.
The information out there is immense, but so well hidden that I wanted the opportunity to contribute to that information becoming further accessible.
I hope this has been able to help make sense of a very very complex and niche topic. Although only the very basics for now, I look forward to being able to bring further insight as I also learn and develop with time.
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