Cannabinoids Showed Significant Neuroprotective Effects in Animal Models of Stroke

Across 26 studies, cannabinoids significantly reduced cerebral infarct volume, improved neurological function, increased cerebral blood flow, and decreased blood-brain barrier permeability, brain water content, cell death, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta). Subgroup analysis showed CBD administered intraperitoneally throughout the full course produced the best results with less variability.

Systematic review with meta-analysis combining bibliometric analysis (241 publications) and quantitative synthesis of 26 preclinical studies on cannabinoids in animal models of ischemic stroke. Pooled standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated with subgroup analyses.

Ischemic stroke has very few treatment options. This comprehensive analysis of animal research suggests cannabinoids, particularly CBD, may work through multiple protective pathways, building the case for moving toward human clinical trials.

Research on cannabinoids for stroke has been growing steadily since 2000. This meta-analysis consolidates the preclinical evidence and identifies the most promising approaches (CBD, specific administration routes) to guide future clinical translation.

All evidence comes from animal models, which may not translate directly to humans. Publication bias may favor positive results. Heterogeneity in protocols across studies, though subgroup analysis helped address this.