A recent study from Brazil has shown that cannabis can be an effective and safe treatment for dogs with discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a common autoimmune skin disease that causes lesions, hair loss, and inflammation.
What is DLE and how is it treated?
DLE is a chronic condition that affects the skin of dogs, especially on the nose, ears, and face. It is caused by an abnormal immune response that attacks the skin cells, resulting in scarring, depigmentation, and ulceration. DLE can also affect the liver and other organs, leading to serious complications.
The conventional treatment for DLE involves corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs, which can have negative side effects such as weight gain, increased thirst and urination, infections, and liver damage. Some dogs do not respond well to these medications or cannot tolerate them at all.
How can cannabis help dogs with DLE?
Cannabis is a plant that contains various compounds called cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors and molecules that regulate various functions in the body, such as pain, inflammation, mood, appetite, and immune response.
Researchers from the Federal University of Santa Catarina in Brazil conducted a case study on a two-year-old dog with DLE and associated liver problems, who could not use corticosteroids due to adverse reactions. They decided to try cannabis therapy as an alternative option.
The dog was given one drop per day of a 2:1 THC:CBD ratio oil, and the dosage was gradually increased until the optimal amount was reached. The results were remarkable: within a few weeks, the dog showed significant improvement in skin lesions and liver enzyme levels. After one year, the dog remained clinically stable on a low dose of CBD-rich oil, with no evidence of DLE recurrence.
The dog’s owner also reported behavioral improvements, such as reduced anxiety and increased activity, within a day of receiving the first dose of CBD oil. This suggests that cannabis can also have positive effects on the mental health and well-being of dogs with DLE.
What are the implications and limitations of this study?
This study is one of the first to demonstrate the potential benefits of cannabis therapy for dogs with DLE, a challenging disease that has limited treatment options. Cannabis can offer a natural, safe, and effective alternative to corticosteroids, which can have harmful side effects and are not suitable for long-term use.
However, this study is based on a single case, and more research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of cannabis therapy for dogs with DLE. The optimal dosage, frequency, and duration of cannabis administration, as well as the possible interactions with other medications, need to be determined. The legal status and availability of cannabis products for veterinary use also vary depending on the country and state.
The researchers conclude that this case report adds to the growing evidence of the therapeutic potential of cannabis for various veterinary conditions, and paves the way for future studies and clinical trials. They hope that cannabis therapy can offer a new hope and a haven for dogs suffering from DLE and other autoimmune diseases.