Silvia Afonso

Mx. Silvia Afonso


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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23 February 2026 in Diseases
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
SASilvia Afonso
Silvia Afonso
JGJoana Domingos Gonçalves
Joana Domingos Gonçalves
ABAna Teresa Loureiro Brinca
Ana Teresa Loureiro Brinca
Luana May RosendoLuana May Rosendo
Luana May Rosendo
TRTiago Rosado
Tiago Rosado
Eugenia GallardoEugenia Gallardo
Eugenia Gallardo
Background/Objectives: Cannabinoids are increasingly recognised for their therapeutic potential beyond well-established indications such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and specific epileptic syndromes. Recent advances have highlighted their possible role in less-common or orphan diseases, opening new avenues for pharmaceutical research and clinical application. Methods: This review provides a critical synthesis of the most recent evidence (2020–2025), available in PubMed and Scopus, regarding the use of cannabinoids in conditions including refractory epilepsies beyond Dravet and Lennox–Gastaut syndromes, movement disorders such as dystonia and Tourette syndrome, rare dermatological diseases like epidermolysis bullosa, and emerging data in Crohn’s disease. Results: Negative outcomes, such as those reported in Fragile X syndrome trials, are also discussed as instructive examples of methodological and pharmacological challenges. Particular attention is given to the optimisation of pharmaceutical formulations and advanced separation technologies, including oromucosal sprays, transdermal gels, and novel nanocarrier systems, which aim to overcome issues of bioavailability and variability in patient response. Finally, safety concerns, regulatory aspects, and the need for robust clinical trials are addressed. Conclusions: Overall, cannabinoids represent a promising yet underexplored therapeutic option in rare and complex disorders, warranting further investigation supported by innovative pharmaceutical approaches.