The well-known cannabis-based pharmaceutical drug Epidiolex, primarily used to treat childhood epilepsy, may offer relief to veterans suffering from Gulf War Illness (GWI), according to new research.

A new study on rats shows the potential of Epidiolex, the FDA-approved cannabidiol (CBD) drug produced by Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC JAZZ’s GW Pharmaceuticals, in addressing cognitive, mood and pain-related symptoms of GWI, a condition linked to chemical exposures during the 1990-1991 Gulf War.

The research, conducted by Chinese scientists, was first reported by Hemp Today.

Cognitive And Pain Improvements Observed

The research, published in Military Medical Research, reveals that long-term oral administration of CBD could alleviate cognitive impairments, mood disorders and chronic pain.

Rats treated with Epidiolex showed significant improvements in object recognition and memory retention, which are common areas of dysfunction in veterans with GWI. Additionally, CBD treatment helped ease anhedonia— the inability to experience pleasure— and reduced pain sensitivity.

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GWI, which affects 25% to 32% of the 700,000 veterans who served in Operation Desert Storm, stems from exposure to environmental hazards like pesticides, burning oil wells and chemical agents.

Veterans experience chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, cognitive dysfunction and headaches. The study highlights CBD’s ability to target brain pathways linked to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, both of which worsen GWI symptoms. In this manner, these findings add to the general notion of cannabis helping Veterans to overcome the consequences of war-related activity.

Read Also: THC Is Beneficial For PTSD Treatment, New Study Reveals

Veterans, Cannabis And War-Related Ailments

Unlike previous treatments such as curcumin or melatonin, Epidiolex proved effective at lower doses, reducing the risk of side effects. The 20 mg/kg dose used in rats equates to about 3.2 mg/kg for humans, offering a more efficient solution compared to other treatments.

The research also notes that Epidiolex didn’t impact motor function, confirming “an excellent safety profile even when taken long-term in low doses, with no observed harmful effects.”

Despite these promising results, the study emphasizes the need for further research, especially regarding potential drug interactions.

While CBD offers hope for veterans with GWI, comprehensive clinical studies are essential before it can become a widespread treatment.

This study, adds to the growing body of research on CBD showing medical uses for cannabis and war-related illnesses, such as PTSD and chronic pain.

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