Transdermal Cannabis Cream Significantly Reduced Diabetic Nerve Pain in Phase III Trial

The transdermal cannabis formulation (THC:CBD:CBN) demonstrated statistically significant reductions in NPSI-T scores across all measured pain dimensions (p<0.001) compared to placebo over 12 weeks. Only 10% of the treatment group reported mild adverse events, comparable to the placebo group.

Phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial at Don Chan Hospital, Thailand. 100 participants with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy of lower extremities. 12-week intervention with primary outcome measured by the Thai Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI-T). GEE modeling and ANCOVA used for analysis.

Diabetic neuropathy affects millions globally and responds poorly to existing treatments. A transdermal cannabis formulation avoids the systemic side effects and psychoactivity associated with oral cannabis while delivering active compounds directly to affected areas. This is the first phase III trial of a THC:CBD:CBN transdermal for this indication.

Transdermal delivery of cannabinoids is an emerging approach that addresses several limitations of oral and inhaled cannabis: it bypasses first-pass metabolism, provides sustained local delivery, and minimizes psychoactive effects. A positive phase III trial for diabetic neuropathy could open regulatory pathways for topical cannabis therapeutics.

Single-center trial in Thailand with 100 participants. 12-week duration does not assess long-term efficacy or safety. The specific THC:CBD:CBN ratios and concentrations are not detailed in the abstract. Cultural and genetic factors may affect generalizability. No active comparator (only placebo).