Canadian rheumatology group says no evidence supports medical cannabis for joint diseases but offers pragmatic guidance

No clinical trials of medical cannabis in rheumatology patients existed at the time of review. Evidence is insufficient for benefit in fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and back pain, but there is evidence of a high risk of harm. Short-term psychomotor effects are expected; long-term risks are unknown.

Literature review by the Canadian Rheumatology Association Therapeutics Committee, assessing available evidence on medical cannabis for rheumatic conditions and developing a pragmatic position statement approved by the CRA board.

With cannabis legalized in Canada, rheumatology patients are increasingly using it for pain and inflammation. This position statement addresses a practical reality: patients are using cannabis regardless of evidence gaps, so clinicians need guidance on harm reduction.

The gap between patient interest and clinical evidence for cannabis in rheumatic diseases is striking. Zero clinical trials exist despite high patient demand. This highlights a broader pattern where cannabis legalization outpaces the research needed to guide medical use.

Position statement rather than systematic review. Based on absence of evidence rather than evidence of absence. Extrapolates from non-rheumatology cannabis research. Does not differentiate between cannabis products, doses, or routes.