Cannabigerol and standardized full-spectrum cannabis extract effects in acute and chronic inflammatory pain models

Abstract

Background Chronic inflammatory pain is associated with persistent sensory and immune dysregulation. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of two cannabinoids formulations—Cannabigerol (CBG) and Standardized Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extract (FULL) in a preclinical model of acute and Chronic inflammatory pain and examined their effects on peripheral and central inflammatory mediators. Methods Cannabinoid analgesic effects were assessed in male Wistar Hannover rats using acute (formalin) and chronic inflammatory pain (CFA) models. Treatments were administered at different doses before the formalin test and after CFA as a single dose or once daily for 21 days. Motor function and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-10) were evaluated using actimeter test and ELISA. Results In the formalin test, both cannabinoids reduced nociceptive behaviors during Phase I, whereas only FULL produced sustained analgesia during Phase II. In the chronic model, single administration produced no significant effects; while repeated treatment (highest doses) improved mechanical thresholds. FULL (10 mg/kg) produced earlier analgesic effects (day 10), while CBG (10 mg/kg) fully restored baseline sensitivity from day 15 onward. In locomotor assessments, both compounds prevented CFA-induced motor impairments, except at the lowest CBG dose. CFA increased tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the spinal cord, dorsal root ganglia (DRG), and plasma. Both cannabinoids prevented the CFA-induced increase in TNF-α levels in the spinal cord and plasma. Elevated TNF-α in the DRG persisted despite treatment, indicating region-specific regulation. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels were unaffected. Conclusion Both cannabinoids exert analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, with FULL providing faster acute relief and CBG produced a more prolonged antinociceptive effect.

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