Some topical cannabinoid therapies could be a safe and effective treatment for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) says a recent study.
According to the USA’s National Eczema Foundation, an estimated 16.5 million adults in the U.S. have atopic dermatitis, with 6.6 million meeting criteria for a moderate to severe condition. Approximately 9.6 million U.S. children under the age of 18 have AD, with a third having moderate to severe disease.
Itching is the most problematic symptom of atopic dermatitis, and this can also lead to sleep loss and other issues. With more than 55% of adults with moderate to severe conditions reporting inadequate disease control, there’s always room for more – and safe – solutions.
CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) are a couple of non-intoxicating cannabinoids that may have a role to play in atopic dermatitis treatment.
A study was conducted from May to July 2022 with 9 patients aged 20- to 67-years-old who were diagnosed with AD. They were administered transdermal delivery of an ointment compounded with cholesterol ointment, 30% cannabidiol (CBD), 5% cannabigerol (CBG), and hemp seed oil. The participants were also assessed on biophysical skin parameters such as corneometry (skin hydration levels), TEWL (transepidermal water loss), sebumetry (skin oil), and pH (acidity).
Early analysis of the pilot study suggests the potential of employing ointments and creams containing this combination as alternatives to conventional treatments during both flare-ups and remission. Results showed improved skin hydration, sebum level, and TEWL. Additional reduced erythema (skin redness) was observed in the studied areas, which were forearms.
“Our results demonstrate that topical cannabinoid therapy is effective in reducing itching and improving the quality of life of patients with AD, leading to symptom remission in some cases,” state the researchers.
Aside from the small group involved, the researchers acknowledge other limitations of their study.
“… it should be noted that our experimental study was performed from May to July 2022, when AD frequently enters remission. Thus, a repeat study is required to further test the effect of the formulation during the autumn-to-winter months, when AD symptoms are typically exacerbated in many patients.”
The study has been published in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.
CBD and CBG may not be the only cannabinoids that can provide benefits for AD sufferers. Some years ago, University of Colorado researchers found the cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may be useful in treating pruritus – severe itching. But as THC is an intoxicating cannabinoid and legally problematic in many jurisdictions, CBD and CBG could turn out to be a more viable alternative for many.
