Multi-target molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effects of cannabidiol against methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity.

Zhao W.; Shan D.; Liu M.; Wang Y. · Neural regeneration research · 2026

**Background & Methods** This is a systematic review examining the neuroprotective mechanisms of cannabidiol (CBD) against methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity. The review synthesizes current evidence on CBD's multi-target protective effects across multiple pathological pathways implicated in methamphetamine abuse-related neural injury. **Key Findings** • Cannabidiol demonstrates neuroprotection through regulation of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation inhibition, and stabilization of mitochondrial function in methamphetamine-exposed neural tissue • CBD modulates autophagy and apoptosis pathways, addressing the autophagy-apoptosis imbalance characteristic of methamphetamine toxicity • CBD influences neurotransmitter systems dysregulated by methamphetamine, suggesting potential for restoring neurochemical homeostasis and addressing addiction-related neurobiological changes **Dosage & Administration** Not reported. As a review article, specific dosing regimens and administration routes for clinical application are not detailed, though this represents an identified gap requiring future clinical investigation. **Safety & Adverse Effects** Not reported. The review does not provide a comprehensive safety profile or adverse effect assessment for CBD in the context of methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity. However, CBD is noted as a non-psychoactive cannabis component, suggesting improved tolerability compared to psychoactive cannabinoids. **Evidence Quality** This review article represents secondary evidence synthesis rather than primary experimental data. Limitations include: (1) reliance on existing literature, which likely comprises predominantly preclinical and animal model studies given the emerging nature of this research area; (2) absence of clinical trial data in humans with methamphetamine use disorder; (3) lack of standardized outcome measures across studies; and (4) potential publication bias favoring positive findings. The authors acknowledge limited current treatment options for methamphetamine-induced neural injury, indicating this remains an understudied clinical area. The 2026 publication date suggests this represents recent evidence synthesis, though clinical translation remains preliminary. Evidence quality is moderate, suitable for generating mechanistic hypotheses and justifying preclinical investigation, but insufficient for clinical recommendations without additional randomized controlled trials.

More recent cannabis research