Pharmacokinetics of Plant-Based Cannabinoids in Pain Management

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63345/ijrmp.org.v10.i7.1

Akshay Chaturvedi

Independent Researcher

Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Cannabinoids derived from the Cannabis sativa plant have emerged as potential therapeutic agents for pain management. Their pharmacokinetics—which encompasses absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion—plays a critical role in determining their clinical efficacy and safety profiles. This manuscript provides a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacokinetic properties of plant‐based cannabinoids, emphasizing their relevance in pain management. An overview of the available literature up to 2020 is provided, along with a detailed discussion of study methodologies, key findings, and implications for future research. Our review reveals that while cannabinoids demonstrate promising analgesic properties, challenges remain regarding variable bioavailability, complex metabolic pathways, and interindividual differences that may influence therapeutic outcomes. The manuscript concludes with suggestions for improving study design and a discussion of the scope and limitations of current research in cannabinoid pharmacokinetics.

Keywords

Cannabinoids; Pharmacokinetics; Pain Management; Absorption; Metabolism; Bioavailability

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