New study analyzes effects of THCV and CBD on weight loss

A new study has provided a better understanding of effects of cannabinoids, THCV and CBD in particular, on the loss of weight.

Published in Cannabis, the research entitled « Weight Loss and Therapeutic Metabolic Effects of Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)-Infused Mucoadhesive Strips » (Weight loss and therapeutic metabolic effects of tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)-infused mucoadhesive strips) explores the impact of these compounds on metabolic syndrome through a controlled trial involving orally administered strips.

Understanding metabolic syndrome

The metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It is characterized by fat accumulation leading to an inflammatory response, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension and fatty liver. Lifestyle factors, such as overweight and obesity, can also play a role. poor diet and lack of exercise, contribute significantly to metabolic syndrome.

According to the’World Health Organization, By 2022, around 2.5 billion adults were considered overweight and 890 million obese. In the US, CDC data between 2017 and March 2020 indicate that 41.9 % of adults over 20 are obese.

The role of the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system (SEC) in the human body plays a crucial role in regulating energy balance and appetite. Previous research has confirmed the positive effects of the endocannabinoid system on energy homeostasis. The aim of this study was to understand how phytocannabinoids such as THCV and CBD may influence metabolic syndrome, potentially offering new avenues of treatment.

Study design and methodology

The study included 44 participants (31 women and 13 men) with an average age of 51.75 years. Participants were divided into groups receiving either a low dose (8 mg THCV/10 mg CBD), a high dose (16 mg THCV/20 mg CBD) or a placebo. These doses were administered daily via mucoadhesive oral strips for 90 days.

Main results

The researchers reported significant results in the THCV/CBD groups. « L’use of the THCV/CBD band was associated with statistically significant weight loss, a reduction in abdominal circumference, systolic blood pressure and total and LDL cholesterol», they explain.

The higher dose (16 mg THCV/20 mg CBD) was particularly effective in promoting weight loss compared to the lower dose (8 mg THCV/10 mg CBD), with both showing statistically significant differences compared to the placebo group.

Historical background to THCV research

The THCV was discovered by Edward Gill and his team in 1970, at a time when cannabis tinctures were recognized as medicines in the UK. Although removed from the British Pharmaceutical Codex in 1932, they remained there until 1949.

Gill's discovery was followed by studies by Frans Merkus, who formally identified the compound as THCV.

Subsequent animal studies revealed the potential of THCV in the fight against obesity. A 2013 study by GW Pharmaceuticals showed that the THCV increased energy expenditure in mice, highlighting its unique pharmacology, which differs from that of reverse agonists/antagonists of CB1 receptor.

Recent studies and implications

Other research has supported the case for THCV as a treatment for metabolic disorders. A 2016 study by GW Pharmaceuticals suggested that the THCV could reduce «resting-state functional connectivity» and improve «connectivity in the cognitive control network», indicating benefits for obesity. A study carried out in 2020 reinforced these findings, highlighting THCV's potential for neuroprotection, appetite suppression and glycemic control.

Beyond metabolic syndrome, THCV has shown promise in the treatment of conditions such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, cancer, pain, inflammation and intractable epilepsy. THCV's vast therapeutic potential underlines its importance in medical research and treatment development.

Recent Phylos study on THCV

In February, Phylos, a cannabis genetics company, announced the results of its THCV study using its «Natural Natural™ THCV» product. Alisha Holloway, PhD, Phylos' chief scientific officer, emphasized the importance of their results.

«This study signifies a pivotal moment for the cannabis industry in understanding the effect of THCV in combination with THC,» said Holloway. The study enables Phylos to leverage its unique plants to develop targeted cannabis products, offering new insights into the efficacy of natural cannabinoids.