JAMA's Comprehensive Review of What Cannabis Can and Can't Treat

Narrative review with meta-analytic data published in JAMA. Synthesized evidence from randomized clinical trials and existing meta-analyses across all therapeutic indications for cannabis and cannabinoids. Covered FDA-approved products (dronabinol, nabilone, Epidiolex) and non-approved cannabis preparations.

A JAMA review represents the medical establishment's current consensus position. The fact that it was published in 2026 — years after most US states legalized some form of cannabis — signals that the medical community is still working to align clinical practice with evidence. The review's distinction between FDA-approved cannabinoids (which have evidence) and inhaled/high-potency cannabis (which guidelines recommend against) is particularly significant.

This JAMA review serves as a reference point for the entire therapeutic cannabis landscape. It contextualizes more specific findings in this database: the chronic pain reviews (RTHC-00233, RTHC-00225), the mental health evidence (RTHC-00235), the epilepsy research (RTHC-00160, RTHC-00186, RTHC-00238), and the cardiovascular concerns (RTHC-00167, RTHC-00237). The gap between the 27% of adults who have used cannabis medicinally and the narrow set of FDA-approved indications captures one of the central tensions in cannabis medicine.

Narrative review format means the evidence synthesis may be selective rather than comprehensive. The rapidly evolving cannabis research landscape means some recent findings may not be captured. Focuses primarily on US-centric FDA approval framework. Does not address the full range of cannabinoid products available in legal markets.