Modulation of the endocannabinoid system in chronic conditions: a potential therapeutic intervention yet to be explored in sickle cell disease.

INTRODUCTION

Individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) are subject to numerous chronic complications, including disabling chronic pain, often dependent on opioids and with important repercussions on the quality of life. The use of Medicinal Cannabis in this scenario may be a promising strategy for mitigating this impact.

AREAS COVERED: This work compiles current knowledge regarding the endocannabinoid system in humans and the role of this system in various organic functions. Articles were retrieved through a comprehensive search of the PubMed NCBI database, covering relevant studies up to 2024. These data bring important speculations on the potential role of the use of medicinal cannabis in modulating SCD chronic complications, and the preliminary results of clinical trials carried out in this condition are discussed.

EXPERT OPINION: The search for understanding the role of cannabis-derived products in the management of chronic complications of sickle cell disease could add resources to the serious challenge of dealing with the multiple aspects of the disease faced by patients. They range from the management of chronic pain itself to the risks of opioid dependence, in addition to other difficult scenarios, such as leg ulcers and chronic inflammation and its consequences.