The first few months of 2025 have already yielded a wide range of notable cannabis studies, exploring everything from its medical potential in brain health and pain management, to the effects of marijuana legalization laws.
Despite marijuana remaining illegal in many parts of the world and in much of the United States, researchers continue to explore marijuana’s therapeutic potential at a rapid pace, in addition to studying the societal impact on laws that legalize the plant. With that in mind, below are some of the most notable studies published so far this year, in no particular order.
Government-Funded Study Finds Marijuana Stores Reduce Opioid Deaths, But Do Not Increase Suicides or Car Crashes
Analyzing a decade of data from Washington state, this study found that a higher density of regulated marijuana retail outlets is linked to reduced opioid-related fatalities. Importantly, the research also found no correlation with increased rates of suicide or vehicular accidents.
Study: CBD Significantly Improves Symptoms in Children With Autism
A study published in Translational Psychiatry found that cannabidiol (CBD) significantly improved behavioral symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Participants who received CBD treatment showed reductions in anxiety, aggression, and repetitive behaviors, along with improved social communication skills. The findings suggest that CBD may offer a promising therapeutic option for managing autism-related symptoms.
Study: Combination of CBD and THC May Reduce Migraine Symptoms
A study published in Pain Medicine found that a combination of cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was effective in reducing migraine symptoms. Participants who used the cannabinoid combination reported fewer migraine attacks, decreased pain intensity, and improved overall quality of life. The findings suggest that cannabis-based treatments could offer relief for individuals suffering from chronic migraines.
Study: CBD Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Growth in Colorectal Cancer Cells Regardless of Mutation
A study published in Frontiers in Oncology found that cannabidiol induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibits the growth of colorectal cancer cells, regardless of their genetic mutations. The research suggests that CBD may have broad therapeutic potential in treating colorectal cancer by targeting cancerous cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected.
Study Finds Legal Marijuana Sales Not Associated With Increased Use Among Adolescents
A study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed adolescent marijuana use trends in states with legal sales. Researchers found no significant increase in use among teenagers following legalization, challenging concerns that regulated markets lead to higher youth consumption. The findings support previous research suggesting that legalization does not drive underage use.
Study Highlights Cannabis’s Potential in Combatting Alzheimer’s Disease
A comprehensive review explored how cannabis-derived compounds may offer multi-target treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s disease. The findings suggest that these compounds can address several pathological facets of the disease, opening new avenues for neurodegenerative research.
Study: THCV and CBD Mucoadhesive Strips Linked to Weight Loss and Metabolic Benefits
A study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that mucoadhesive strips containing tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and cannabidiol were associated with weight loss and improved metabolic function. Participants who used the strips experienced reduced appetite, lower body weight, and improved glucose regulation, suggesting that cannabinoid-based treatments may have potential in managing obesity and metabolic disorders.
Randomized, Double-Blind Trial Finds Low-Dose CBD May Enhance Opioid Pain Relief Without Increasing Adverse Effects
In a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Arizona State University, a clinical trial found that low-dose CBD can boost the pain-relieving effects of opioids. The study highlights a promising strategy for reducing opioid dosages while maintaining effective pain management.
Study Finds Cannabinoid-Based Supplement Improves Sleep Quality and Health Outcomes in Adults With Subthreshold Insomnia
A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that a cannabinoid-based supplement significantly improved sleep quality and overall health outcomes in adults experiencing subthreshold insomnia. Participants who used the supplement reported longer sleep duration, fewer nighttime awakenings, and improved next-day functioning. The findings suggest that cannabinoid-based treatments may offer a viable alternative for individuals struggling with mild to moderate sleep disturbances.
Study Finds “Cannabinoids Hold Significant Potential for Preventing and Treating Brain Diseases”
In this study published in Cellular Signalling, scientists from Qingdao University examined the neuroprotective properties of cannabinoids. Their findings indicate that these compounds may help mitigate neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, thereby reducing the risk of various brain diseases.
Study: CBD Hydrogel Microneedle Patch Has “Obvious Therapeutic Effects” for Psoriasis Patients
A study published in Advanced Therapeutics found that a cannabidiol (CBD) hydrogel microneedle patch demonstrated “obvious therapeutic effects” in patients with psoriasis. The patch effectively reduced inflammation, alleviated skin irritation, and improved overall skin health. Researchers suggest that CBD-based transdermal treatments may offer a non-invasive and effective option for managing psoriasis symptoms.
Study: Daily Cannabis Use Associated With Higher Rates of Opioid Cessation Among People With Chronic Pain
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that individuals with chronic pain who used cannabis daily were more likely to reduce or stop opioid use compared to non-cannabis users. The research suggests that cannabis may serve as a harm reduction tool for managing pain while decreasing reliance on opioids, potentially helping to combat the opioid crisis.
Researchers Develop “Index of Cannabis Equivalence” to Standardize Doses Across Different Consumption Methods
A team from The University of British Columbia introduced the Index of Cannabis Equivalence (ICE) to create a unified dosing standard across multiple consumption methods. This breakthrough helps patients and researchers achieve consistent dosing, paving the way for improved regulation and safer use.
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