Cannabis shows promise for managing abdominal pain in inflammatory bowel disease but not the underlying inflammation

There is little clinical evidence that cannabis treats the gastrointestinal inflammation underlying IBD. However, a recurring finding from both animal and human studies is that cannabis and cannabinoid signaling elements have a significant impact on IBD-related symptoms, particularly abdominal pain.

Narrative review of the role of cannabis and cannabinoid signaling in visceral pain perception and the evidence for efficacy in managing pain, related symptoms, and inflammation in IBD.

IBD patients frequently suffer from chronic abdominal pain that is difficult to manage. If cannabis can reliably address pain without the risks of opioids, even without treating inflammation, it could improve quality of life for millions.

The distinction between symptom relief and disease modification is important. Cannabis may offer IBD patients meaningful quality-of-life improvements even if it does not alter the disease course, similar to how pain management works alongside anti-inflammatory treatments.

Limited human clinical trial data specifically for IBD pain. Animal models may not translate to human IBD pain. Heterogeneity of cannabis products and IBD subtypes makes generalizations difficult.