Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol in Children with Cerebral Palsy: An Integrative Review
Published 2025-01-24
Keywords
- Cannabidiol,
- Cerebral Palsy,
- Child
How to Cite
Copyright (c) 2025 Camila Harmuch, Anny Caroline Ribeiro Devechi, Cecily Barbosa, Ana Luisa Serrano Lima, Jéssica dos Santos Pini, André Estevam Jaques, Marcelle Paiano
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Abstract
Introduction
The first clinical trials involving cannabidiol in humans were documented in the 1970s. However, it was in the 1990s that the discovery of an endogenous cannabinoid signaling system sparked interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabis for treating nervous system disorders, including epilepsy.
Objective
To identify scientific evidence regarding the use of cannabidiol in children with cerebral palsy.
Methods
This study presents an integrative review using the PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Embase databases in April 2024. The search descriptors included “Cannabidiol,” “Cerebral Palsy,” and “Child.” Nine articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included.
Results
The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in cerebral palsy, focusing on knowledge, safety, and challenges in prescribing these substances. Additionally, research, regulation, and education emerged as key elements for understanding and properly implementing this treatment.
Conclusion
Medicinal cannabinoids show promise in treating children with cerebral palsy, particularly in managing spasticity, pain, and seizures. Further research is needed to define their exact role, but early results suggest that cannabinoids could be a safe and effective therapeutic option, especially for severe cases.