Unraveling approaches for cannabidiol delivery nanosystems: A patent review

BACKGROUND: Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid from Cannabis sativa, exhibits well-documented biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antiepileptic, and antioxidant effects. However, its poor aqueous solubility and limited bioavailability significantly hinder its clinical application. This integrative review aimed to analyze recent patented nanotechnologies developed to improve CBD delivery and address its biopharmaceutical limitations. METHODS: Patent documents filed over the last 10 years in the European Patent Office (EPO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) were systematically screened within an integrative review framework. This approach was designed as a qualitative, exploratory technological analysis, rather than a systematic or exhaustive patent landscape study. Trends were analyzed descriptively by filing year and geographic origin. Formulation strategies, physicochemical characteristics, and applicant-reported applications were qualitatively evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 538 documents were identified, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. The United States was the leading country in patent filings, with a peak observed in 2020. The identified technologies included nanoemulsions, microemulsions, polymeric and lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, nanocrystals, and nanofibers. Reported applications suggest potential use in anti-inflammatory, neurological, and antimicrobial contexts. CONCLUSION: Patented nanocarriers demonstrate potential to improve CBD delivery and stability. However, these findings should be interpreted as technological propositions rather than validated pharmacological evidence, since patent disclosures do not necessarily include peer-reviewed experimental validation. Further preclinical and clinical studies are required to confirm therapeutic performance, ensure safety, and support regulatory translation. Continued advances in nanosystem design may contribute to the future development of cannabinoid-based nanomedicines.