Medicinal Cannabis for Pain
How Medicinal Cannabis Can be Used to Help Patients with Pain
The use of medicinal cannabis for pain relief has been a topic of debate for many years. While some people swear by its effectiveness, others remain skeptical of its benefits. However, with the legalization of cannabis for medicinal use in many countries, more research is being conducted to determine the therapeutic potential of the plant.
Cannabis contains many active compounds, but two of the most well-known are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the "high" associated with cannabis use, while CBD is non-intoxicating and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Studies have shown that medicinal cannabis can be effective in treating chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, which is notoriously difficult to treat. One study published in the Journal of Pain found that cannabis was effective in reducing chronic neuropathic pain, and that the effects lasted for several hours.
Another study published in the European Journal of Pain found that cannabis reduced pain in patients with multiple sclerosis, a condition that is often associated with chronic pain. The researchers also noted that the cannabis was well-tolerated by the patients and had few side effects.
In addition to its analgesic properties, cannabis has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial in treating pain associated with conditions such as arthritis. A study published in the journal Rheumatology found that medicinal cannabis reduced pain and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
It is important to note that the use of medicinal cannabis should always be initiated by your doctor. Patients should also be aware of the potential side effects, which can include dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
In conclusion, while more research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of medicinal cannabis, the available evidence suggests that it can be effective in treating chronic pain. If you are considering using medicinal cannabis for pain relief, be sure to discuss your options with your doctor.
There are many different health conditions where medicinal cannabis has the potential to be of value. Learn about health conditions that medicinal cannabis can be used in.
References:
1. Wilsey, B., Marcotte, T., Deutsch, R., Gouaux, B., Sakai, S., & Donaghe, H. (2013). Low-dose vaporized cannabis significantly improves neuropathic pain. The Journal of Pain, 14(2), 136-148.
2. Rog, D. J., Nurmikko, T. J., Friede, T., & Young, C. A. (2005). Randomized, controlled trial of cannabis-based medicine in central pain in multiple sclerosis. European Journal of Pain, 9(4), 427-433.
3. Blake, D. R., Robson, P., Ho, M., Jubb, R. W., & McCabe, C. S. (2006). Preliminary assessment of the efficacy, tolerability and safety of a cannabis-based medicine (Sativex) in the treatment of pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology, 45(1), 50-52.