CBD For Sjogren’s: Is There Any Evidence?

Sjogren’s patients are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) by the numbers. A report that was published in Sjogren’s Foundation in 2020 reports anecdotal evidence for the use of CBD to relieve symptoms of Sjogren’s. It also explains the possible basis for using CBD in Sjogren’s, based on rational science. While there is a dearth of studies directly linking CBD to Sjogren’s, the therapeutic properties of CBD may provide a basis for the anecdotal evidence.

CBD is one of the numerous phytocannabinoids that are present in cannabis Sativa. Unlike delta-THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and is well tolerated by most users. The exact mechanisms through which CBD acts are unclear as it has a weak affinity for both receptors of the endocannabinoid system: CB1 &CB2. CBD appears to have an influence over different systems such as the serotonin system. CBD may affect how a person’s brain responds to serotonin.

Sjogren’s Syndrome (SS) is an auto-immune system condition that causes persistent dryness of mucus membranes in the mouth and eyes. It is a chronic condition that increases in severity over time. As it progresses, the patient may experience other symptoms such as joint inflammation, insomnia, vaginal dryness, skin rashes, and extreme fatigue. Older women are at the highest risk of developing this condition.

Being an autoimmune condition, a cure for Sjogren’s is a pipe dream. Can CBD really cure Sjogren’s syndrome?

Truth be told, CBD may not be able to cure Sjogren’s syndrome. Then why are Sjogren’s patients turning to CBD?

Generally, patients are experimenting with CBD for various reasons. For one, CBD is natural and has fewer side effects compared to most pharmaceutical drugs. The second is that patients with “untreatable” conditions, such as Sjogren’s are willing to try something that may improve their quality of life. With insurmountable anecdotal evidence on the therapeutic benefits of CBD, patients are hedging their bets on this non-psychoactive cannabinoid.

How Does CBD Help With Sjogren’s?

Drugs that suppress the immune system such as methotrexate are used to treat Sjogren’s and improve symptoms. Some preliminary studies have shown that CBD has immune-suppressing effects. It is able to suppress both innate and adaptive immune responses by reducing circulating cytokines.  Could this have a bearing on Sjogren’s?

CBD helps to relieve neuropathic pain which is one of the distressing symptoms that are experienced in Sjogren’s.

Does CBD Increase Mouth Dryness in Sjogren’s?

While THC in cannabis is known to cause cottonmouth, there is no evidence suggesting that CBD has similar effects. Methotrexate, which has immune-suppressing effects has been shown to relieve dryness of the mouth, eyes, and throat. CBD probably elicits a similar response.

There is a dearth of scientific evidence linking CBD to relief Sjogren’s. However, there is sufficient preliminary evidence to warrant further investigation in this area, especially considering that a quarter million SS patients in the U.S lack a sure-fire cure for this condition.