Global Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Therapeutic Cannabis Research, Regulatory and Pharmaceutical Challenges

Abstract

This bibliometric analysis examines the development of research in cannabis therapeutic. This research has seen explosive growth from 1972 to 2024, with 2022 documents published across 819 sources. This rapid expansion underscores the increasing global interest in understanding cannabis' therapeutic potentials. This vast body of work is richly interconnected, citing over 122124 references, and is characterized by 17624 "Keywords Plus" and 4607 author keywords, revealing the multidimensional nature of the research topics. Medical cannabis research draws from a diverse pool of 8706 researchers. The collaborative spirit is strong, with an average of 5.13 co-authors per document and 19.14% of these partnerships spanning international borders. Notable contributions to the field include works by Vincenzo Di Marzo and Daniele Piomelli, as well as highly cited articles like "The endocannabinoid system as an emerging target of pharmacotherapy" by Pacher et al., which has garnered 1775 citations. These studies are foundational, exploring critical areas like the endocannabinoid systems, treatment of neuropathic pain, and the pharmacological and clinical impacts of cannabis. However, the field faces significant gaps that warrant further investigation. There is a pressing need for more randomized controlled trials, longitudinal studies, and comprehensive research on drug-cannabis interactions. Addressing these gaps through rigorous clinical studies, interdisciplinary research, and supportive policies is crucial for advancing the field. Medical cannabis research is dynamic and rapidly evolving, with substantial contributions that continue to shape scientific and therapeutic landscapes. The combined efforts of researchers worldwide, supported by robust international collaborations, are key to unlocking the full potential of cannabis as a therapeutic agent.