A study from the University of California, San Diego, reveals that the administration of cannabidiol (CBD) may reduce alcohol dependence and prevent brain damage induced by alcohol consumption. The findings point to new pathways in the treatment of alcohol use disorders.

Published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, the study analyzed the effects of CBD in two rodent models: intermittent ethanol exposure and ethanol vapor self-administration. These models simulate key aspects of human dependence and allow for the evaluation of CBD's impact during abstinence and potential relapses.

The results showed that CBD, administered at doses of 30 and 60 mg/kg, reduced voluntary alcohol intake, alleviated physical withdrawal symptoms, and decreased associated anxiety. Additionally, cannabidiol blocked the reinstatement of alcohol-seeking behavior induced by stress, a key factor in