Development and characterization of hydrogel using a cannabidiol (CBD)-rich phytocomplex from Cannabis sp.

Abstract

In 2019, Anvisa authorized the commercialization of products and medicines based on Cannabis sativa L. in Brazil. The plant is recognized for its medicinal benefits, thanks to its hytocannabinoids and terpenoids content. Among non-psychoactive substances, cannabidiol (CBD) is particularly valuable from a pharmaceutical perspective due to its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antibiotic, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties, among others. However, the lipophilic nature of cannabinoids presents a significant challenge for the development of safe and effective formulations. Despite its low bioavailability, orally administered medications are the most commonly used, leading to therapeutic inefficiency and the emergence of adverse effects due to dose escalation. This is because these formulations are heavily affected by the firstpass effect in the liver and degradation in stomach acid. With the aim of improving the absorption and bioavailability of CBD, this study aims to develop and characterize a topical hydrogel containing CBD. To achieve this, analyses of CBD permeability and release, cytotoxic profile, the formulation's potential for topical use, and its physicochemical stability, will be conducted. This work aims to contribute to expanding the therapeutic arsenal by proposing the development of effective and safe formulations for the medicinal use of CBD.