Cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are known by their ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system, which play an important role in a number of biochemical pathways. Besides Sativex® and Epidiolex®, the only two approved drugs containing CBD, the potential of cannabinoids to be used to treat a large number of medical conditions is very high as is shown by the number of ongoing clinical trials. In addition, the changes in the laws that regulate the use of cannabis in different countries are fostering the use of cannabinoids in areas like medical cannabis, food and cosmetics, to mention a few.

 

Enantia has been working to apply cocrystallisation technology to cannabinoids with two objectives: to develop a highly efficient purification process from either natural or synthetic sources, and to obtain improved solid forms of different cannabinoids, notably CBD and THC, to be used as pharmaceutical actives.

 

This research led us to the discovery of new cocrystals of CBD (see our first published patent application of February 2019, WO2019/030158 A1) and the corresponding processes to prepare them. These cocrystals allow the purification of CBD (either from crude cannabis extracts or synthetic mixtures) with a simple, cost-effective and industrial scalable process. Furthermore, these new cocrystals can also be used as pharmaceutical ingredients in drug formulations.

 

Enantia is open to discuss with possible partners the licensing of this technology for different uses. Expressions of interest can be directed to Joan Feixas, Enantia’s CEO.