Cannabidiol Treatment In A Murine Model Of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Accelerates Proteinuria Development

Background: Cannabidiol is a non-psychotropic component of cannabis sativa. Known to induce an immunomodulatory effect, cannabidiol's therapeutic properties have been explored in a number of autoimmune diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by its varied manifestation and systemic involvement.Objectives: To evaluate the effect of cannabidiol on disease progression in a murine model of SLE.Methods: NZBxW/F1 mice were treated with either cannabidiol or vehicle by subcutaneous injections. Disease progression was estimated by measurements of proteinuria, histological evaluation of renal disease, levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies, and survival analysis.Results: Mice treated with cannabidiol exhibited rapid progression of glomerular disease with significantly increased proteinuria compared to the control group. Survival analysis revealed a trend (P = 0.058) toward decreased survival among mice treated with cannabidiol. No statistical difference was observed in levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies.Conclusions: Cannabidiol accelerated disease progression in a murine model of SLE. Caution is advised in cannabinoid treatment for SLE patients until further data are collected.