Topical use of Cannabis cream for healing and antipruritic action

Abstract

Healing cutaneous lesions and the management of pruritus are common challenges in veterinary practice, significantly impacting animal welfare. The application of Cannabis-based products has emerged as an innovative alternative in the treatment of these conditions. This case report describes the positive outcome of the topical use of a product containing phytocannabinoids for the management of pruritus and wound healing in a dog. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), present in the skin, plays a crucial role in modulating inflammation and tissue regeneration, acting well beyond the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are responsible for regulating physiological processes such as pruritus control and the promotion of healing. In cases of intense pruritus, self-trauma caused by the animal presents a major challenge to therapeutic management, exacerbating lesions and delaying recovery. Self-trauma, common in dermatitis and other pruritic conditions, can lead to secondary complications such as infections and compromise the patient’s well-being. The use of cannabidiol, due to its anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, has shown efficacy in controlling self-trauma and accelerating healing, offering a promising alternative to conventional treatment, in addition to contributing to the improvement of the animal’s physical and psychological well-being.