Brazilian laboratory launches unprecedented research on cannabis in the treatment of sequelae from ischemic stroke
UNILA study will investigate the therapeutic effects of CBD and THC in patients with neurological and motor limitations
The Laboratory of Medicinal Cannabis and Psychedelic Science (LCP) at the Federal University of Latin American Integration (UNILA) is accepting applications for a pioneering research study worldwide. The study will analyze the therapeutic effects of medicinal cannabis — containing cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke.
According to the research coordinator, Francisney Nascimento, "the study aims to evaluate whether the substance can help reverse neurological, psychiatric, and motor limitations caused by this type of stroke."
According to Nascimento, this is an unprecedented study at a global level. "So far, there are no records of scientific studies using cannabinoids in human patients after ischemic stroke. However, tests with animals have already shown promising effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective actions," he states.
Who can participate in the medicinal cannabis research?
The team is selecting 20 volunteers who have suffered an ischemic stroke more than a year ago and who present neurological and motor limitations resulting from the episode. Applications are open until May 5 and can be made through an online form (Link here).
How the study will be conducted at UNILA
The research will last six months, with a planned start in June 2025, and will be conducted in person at UNILA's headquarters in Foz do Iguaçu (PR). Participants will receive monthly follow-up from a specialized multidisciplinary team.
"The study will follow an open-label, prospective methodology with a single arm. All participants will receive treatment with cannabis and will be clinically evaluated each month to monitor the product's efficacy," explains Nascimento.
He also adds that the research "has the potential to open new pathways in the rehabilitation of patients with stroke sequelae, offering evidence of a possible therapeutic alternative based on cannabinoids."
With information from UNILA