Scientists continue to wrestle with unraveling the underlying cause of glaucoma, an eye condition that ultimately results in vision impairment by elevating intraocular pressure and harming the optic nerve. Presently, there are no known cures, and conventional treatments merely impede its advancement. Consequently, researchers are directing their attention towards cannabis as a promising source of therapeutic solutions.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma stems from a collection of diseases that lead to the deterioration of the optic nerve, a vital component of the central nervous system. This component is responsible for relaying visual signals from the eyes to the brain. Globally, it stands as the second most common cause of blindness, impacting individuals of all ages, with those over 60 facing a heightened susceptibility. Presently, it’s estimated that over 70 million people worldwide are affected by glaucoma. Due to its often subtle symptoms, only a fraction—ranging from 10% to 50%—of individuals within this population are aware of their condition.
Weed for Glaucoma: The Endocannabinoid System of the Eye
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is made up of two primary receptors, CB1 and CB2. Along with them are two essential signaling molecules, anandamide and 2-AG, referred to as endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids bind to receptors, instigating necessary changes within targeted cells. The ECS also involves a group of specialized enzymes responsible for the synthesis and breakdown of these endocannabinoids.
What’s truly remarkable is that the cannabis plant produces a range of chemicals called phytocannabinoids, including THC, CBD, CBC, and CBG, among others. These compounds are primarily formed post-harvest through exposure to heat. Notably, several of these compounds, like THC, share a similar molecular structure with our endocannabinoids. This allows them to bind to the same receptors and impact our physiology. Other phytocannabinoids, such as CBD, bind to different sites within the eCBome and also modulate ECS enzyme activity. Altogether, this means that molecules derived from the cannabis plant have the potential to influence our universal regulator—the ECS—and all the systems it governs, including those related to ocular health.
Cannabis and Glaucoma
More extensive human trials, incorporating large sample sizes, are necessary to determine whether cannabis presents a viable solution. Initial research suggests that THC and CBG hold some potential, although further investigation is needed. However, CBD seems to elevate intraocular pressure, prompting the necessity for additional studies to ascertain its potential benefits or drawbacks.
Treating Glaucoma With Cannabis in Maryland
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