THC Significantly Reduced Muscle Spasticity in Patients With Neurological Conditions ↗
A double-blind trial found 10 mg oral THC significantly reduced muscle spasticity. Tonic spasms responded well, but cerebellar disease did not.
Pain research
Explore published research on pain, including study methods and limitations.
An Opiate Blocker Also Blocked THC Effects in Rats, Suggesting Shared Brain Pathways ↗
An opiate receptor blocker inhibited THC-induced pain relief, temperature changes, tolerance, and dependence in rats, suggesting cannabis and opiates share brain pathways.
A Single Cannabis Cigarette Measurably Improved Both Spasticity and Tremor in an MS Patient ↗
Smoking cannabis measurably improved both muscle spasticity and hand tremor in an MS patient, confirmed by clinical rating, EMG, and electromagnetic recording.
MS Patients Reported Cannabis Improved Spasticity, Pain, Tremor, and Up to 11 Other Symptoms ↗
The first survey of cannabis use in MS found 112 patients reported improvement in up to 14 symptoms, with spasticity and chronic pain most commonly improved.
What Science Actually Knew About Medical Cannabis in 2001 ↗
Comprehensive review finding solid evidence for cannabinoids in nausea and appetite, emerging evidence for pain and spasticity, and weak evidence for glaucoma and asthma, while advocating for non-smoked delivery methods.
What Was Known About Cannabis for MS Spasticity and Pain in 2002 ↗
Review of 9 clinical trials and animal research finding cannabinoids reduced spasticity, pain, tremor, and bladder symptoms in MS, with elevated endocannabinoid levels in spastic conditions.
Are Cannabinoids Better Than Existing MS Treatments for Pain and Spasticity? ↗
Review finding cannabinoids can reduce MS spasticity and pain but questioning their superiority over existing treatments, with too few controlled trials for definitive conclusions.
The Birth of Sativex: How GW Pharmaceuticals Developed Cannabis Medicine ↗
GW Pharmaceuticals developed Sativex and other cannabis medicines, with phase III trials showing significant neuropathic pain reduction in MS, leading to licensing with Bayer AG.
A Comprehensive Map of What Cannabinoids Could Treat in the Brain ↗
Comprehensive review cataloging cannabinoid therapeutic potential across MS, Parkinson's, neuroprotection, pain, and appetite, highlighting non-psychoactive cannabinoids as potentially offering benefits without psychoactivity.
What MS Patients Said About Their Cannabis Use: A Survey of 420 ↗
Survey of 420 MS patients finding 96% aware of cannabis therapeutic potential, 16% using it medicinally with reported improvements in anxiety, spasticity, and chronic pain.
Cannabis Extracts Helped Neurological Pain and Symptoms That Standard Treatments Could Not ↗
Controlled trial showing sublingual cannabis extracts (THC and CBD) significantly improved pain and bladder symptoms in 24 patients with treatment-resistant neurological conditions.
The Landmark CAMS Trial: 667 MS Patients Test Cannabis for Spasticity ↗
Landmark trial of 667 MS patients found cannabis did not improve clinician-rated spasticity but showed significant patient-reported improvements in spasticity (p=0.003) and pain.
Cannabis Sprays Reduced Nerve Pain from Brachial Plexus Injury ↗
Randomized trial in 48 patients finding cannabis sprays produced statistically significant neuropathic pain and sleep improvements, though below the predefined clinical significance threshold.
How Many MS Patients in Nova Scotia Use Cannabis? A Survey of 220 ↗
Survey of 220 MS patients finding 14% currently using cannabis for symptoms, with stress, sleep, mood, spasticity, and pain reported as most effectively relieved.
The Case For and Against Cannabis Treatment in MS: Where Did the Evidence Stand in 2004? ↗
Review noting strong animal and patient-report evidence for cannabinoids in MS but acknowledging that objective clinical evidence remained lacking across 10 published reports with 78 patients.
Do Cannabinoids Actually Work for MS? A Skeptical Assessment of 2004 Evidence ↗
Critical review noting that despite exciting receptor research, only 10 clinical reports with 78 MS patients existed, and better-designed studies failed to show objective spasticity improvement.
Cannabis Sprays for Chronic Pain: Lessons from 34 Individual Patient Trials ↗
34 individual patient trials of sublingual cannabis extracts for chronic pain found THC-containing formulations most effective, with wide dosing needs and acceptable side effects.
The Theory That Named What Patients Already Knew: Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency ↗
The hypothesis that migraine, fibromyalgia, and IBS share underlying endocannabinoid deficiency. Now supported by CSF studies (reduced anandamide, p < 0.0001), platelet data, neuroimaging, and genetics — but still awaiting definitive clinical trials.
Cannabis Extracts for MS Spasticity: What the Latest Trials Showed in 2004 ↗
Critical review distinguishing between oral THC (failed to reduce spasticity objectively) and sublingual THC:CBD (showed more promise) for MS treatment.
Cannabis Extract Capsules Reduced Spasticity in MS Patients Who Took Enough of the Medication ↗
Crossover trial of 57 MS patients found cannabis extract capsules significantly reduced spasm frequency and improved mobility in the 37 patients who took at least 90% of their dose.
Sativex Spray Significantly Reduced MS Spasticity But Not Other Symptoms in 160-Patient Trial ↗
Trial of 160 MS patients found Sativex spray significantly reduced spasticity (P = 0.001) but the primary composite symptom measure did not reach significance.
Review of 15 Clinical Trials Found Cannabinoids Most Promising for Spasticity, Tics, and Nerve Pain ↗
Review of 15 randomized clinical trials found the strongest evidence for cannabinoids treating MS spasticity, Tourette's tics, and neuropathic pain, while trials for cachexia and Parkinson's were negative.
Review of How the Endocannabinoid System Works and Its Potential for New Treatments ↗
Review of the endocannabinoid signaling system describes how it maintains physiological balance and identifies therapeutic potential for pain, epilepsy, spasticity, eating disorders, and inflammation.
Comprehensive Review of Cannabinoid Pharmacology, Receptor Systems, and Therapeutic Applications ↗
Comprehensive review of 15 years of cannabinoid research catalogs receptor distribution across the body and identifies therapeutic potential for pain, neurological disorders, obesity, and addiction.
Sativex Spray Approved for MS Neuropathic Pain, With Trials Showing Benefit for Spasticity and Sleep ↗
Five RCTs of Sativex (THC:CBD spray) in 368 neurological patients showed significant benefits for neuropathic pain, spasticity, and sleep, leading to approval in Canada for MS pain.
Historical Review: Cannabis Medicine Has Thousands of Years of History But Modern Clinical Research Is Just Beginning ↗
Review found that despite thousands of years of medicinal use, clinical cannabis research remained in its infancy, with studies hampered by small sizes, poor controls, and inconsistent formulations.
Cannabis-Based Spray Significantly Reduced MS Central Pain and Sleep Problems in Rigorous Trial ↗
Randomized trial of 66 MS patients found THC:CBD spray significantly reduced central neuropathic pain (P = 0.005) and sleep disturbance (P = 0.003) with 97% completion rate.
Largest MS Cannabinoid Trial Found Small But Significant Spasticity Benefit After 12 Months ↗
12-month follow-up of 630 MS patients found oral THC produced a small but significant spasticity reduction (P = 0.01), suggesting a longer-term treatment effect not seen in the initial 15-week study.
Brief Review of Cannabinoid Therapeutic Potential for Neurological Diseases Including MS, Pain, and Glaucoma ↗
Brief review outlines therapeutic potential of cannabinoid agonists for spasticity, pain, and inflammation, and CB1 antagonists for Parkinson's disease.
Sativex Clinical Review: Typically 8-12 Sprays Daily, Effective for MS Spasticity and Neuropathic Pain ↗
Clinical review of Sativex shows patients typically use 8-12 sprays daily (22-32 mg THC + 20-30 mg CBD), with positive trial results for MS spasticity and neuropathic pain.
Clinical Experience: 15 of 20 Chronic Pain Patients Reported Improvement With Synthetic Cannabinoid Nabilone ↗
Clinical case series of 20 chronic pain patients found 75% reported improvement with nabilone, with sleep and nausea benefits being the primary reasons for continued use.
Cannabis Extract for Post-Surgical Pain: Clear Dose-Response But Trial Stopped Over Safety Concern ↗
Dose-escalation trial showed cannabis extract produced clear dose-related pain relief (NNT comparable to standard analgesics) but was terminated after a serious vasovagal event at the highest dose.
Sativex Review: Effective Across Multiple Pain Conditions Without Tolerance or Withdrawal ↗
Review of Sativex clinical development shows efficacy across multiple pain conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, and MS symptoms, with no significant intoxication, tolerance, or withdrawal reported.
A Q&A Overview of Marijuana's Potential Role in Pain Management ↗
Patient-oriented Q&A article that briefly covered marijuana for pain alongside topics like fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, and hypnosis.
A Review of How Cannabinoids Could Help With Pain, Nausea, and Symptoms in Serious Illness ↗
Review found cannabinoids showed promise for managing pain, appetite loss, nausea, and other symptoms in serious illness, with potential to complement and reduce opioid use.
Sativex Significantly Reduced Neuropathic Pain and Allodynia in a Controlled Trial ↗
Sativex reduced neuropathic pain nearly three times more than placebo in 125 patients, with benefits lasting a full year in an extension study without dose escalation.
Two Years of Sativex Use for MS Pain Showed Sustained Relief With No Tolerance ↗
Two-year open-label follow-up of 28 MS patients found sustained Sativex pain relief without tolerance or dose escalation, though 25% of all participants dropped out due to side effects.
Plant Cannabinoids Activate Pain-Sensing Ion Channels Beyond the Known CB1 and CB2 Receptors ↗
Six plant cannabinoids activated the pain-sensing TRPA1 channel (CBC most potent at 60 nM) and blocked the cold-sensing TRPM8 channel, revealing non-CB1/CB2 mechanisms for pain relief.
Scientists Found the Endocannabinoid System in Connective Tissue Cells, With Implications for Pain and Bodywork ↗
Database analysis found fibroblasts and connective tissue cells express a full endocannabinoid system that may help regulate pain, inflammation, and tissue remodeling in muscles and fascia.
A Comprehensive Review of Cannabinoids for Difficult-to-Treat Pain ↗
Comprehensive review found strong trial evidence for cannabinoid analgesics in neuropathic, cancer, and inflammatory pain, with Sativex already approved in Canada for two pain indications.
The Theory That Some Conditions Are Caused by an Endocannabinoid Deficiency ↗
Proposed that migraine, fibromyalgia, and IBS may share a common cause: clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, providing a rationale for cannabinoid-based treatments.
Chart Review of 139 Medical Cannabis Patients Revealed Complex Pain and Major Access Barriers ↗
Chart review of 139 medical cannabis patients found 88% had multiple pain conditions (most commonly myofascial and neuropathic pain) and 37% faced significant access barriers despite legal authorization.
CBD Directly Activated Glycine Receptors Involved in Pain Processing ↗
CBD enhanced glycine receptor function at low micromolar concentrations and directly activated them at higher concentrations, providing a non-cannabinoid mechanism for pain relief.
How Cannabinoids Fight Inflammation: A Review of Recent Research ↗
A review found that all classes of cannabinoids show anti-inflammatory activity, potentially through promoting inflammation resolution rather than blocking its initiation.
Can Cannabinoids Work as Pain Relievers? A Review of the Evidence ↗
A review found that cannabinoids show analgesic potential in preclinical and clinical studies, with particular promise as opioid-sparing agents that could reduce opioid dose requirements.
In Mice, One Brain Dose of a CB1 Agonist Led to Weeks-Long Tolerance Tied to Gz Proteins ↗
In mice, a single brain dose of a CB1 agonist produced more than two weeks of tolerance and reduced morphine analgesia. Gz proteins were required.
Blocking Endocannabinoid-Degrading Enzymes Reduced Neuropathic Pain in Mice ↗
Inhibiting FAAH and MAGL enzymes reduced neuropathic pain in mice through different cannabinoid receptor mechanisms, without the behavioral side effects of direct cannabinoid agonists.
Blocking 2-AG Breakdown Raised Brain Levels 8-Fold and Produced Cannabinoid Effects in Mice ↗
The first selective MAGL inhibitor (JZL184) raised mouse brain 2-AG eightfold and produced CB1-dependent analgesia, hypothermia, and reduced movement, establishing 2-AG as a key endocannabinoid modulator.
Five Strategies to Make Cannabinoid Medicines Work Without the High ↗
Published three months after rimonabant's withdrawal, this review by Roger Pertwee proposed five strategies for developing cannabinoid medicines without psychoactive side effects — from peripheral restriction to cannabinoid-opioid synergy.
A Single Amino Acid Change Eliminated Cannabinoid Effects on Pain-Related Glycine Receptors ↗
A single amino acid mutation in the glycine receptor completely abolished the ability of CBD, ajulemic acid, and HU210 to modulate this pain-related receptor, identifying a critical molecular interaction site.
THC/CBD Spray Reduced Cancer Pain That Opioids Could Not Fully Control ↗
In 177 cancer patients with opioid-refractory pain, THC/CBD spray significantly reduced pain (43% responders vs 21% placebo), while THC alone did not reach significance, highlighting CBD importance in the formulation.
How cannabinoid and opioid systems interact at the cellular level ↗
Review identified three cellular mechanisms of cannabinoid-opioid interaction: peptide cross-release, receptor-receptor interaction, and converging signaling pathways.
Cannabis-based medicines showed subjective improvement in MS spasticity despite mixed results on clinical scales ↗
Review found cannabis-based medicines improved patient-reported MS spasticity but often did not show effects on the Ashworth clinical scale.
Nabilone was better than amitriptyline for improving sleep in fibromyalgia patients ↗
Crossover RCT of 29 fibromyalgia patients found nabilone improved sleep quality more than amitriptyline, though neither affected pain in two-week treatment periods.
Sativex (THC+CBD) was as effective as baclofen for MS spasticity in a mouse model ↗
Review found Sativex (THC+CBD) matched baclofen effectiveness for MS spasticity in mice, with endocannabinoid levels altered in both MS animal models and patient cerebrospinal fluid.
Fibromyalgia patients who used cannabis reported significant pain and stiffness relief within 2 hours ↗
Fibromyalgia cannabis users reported significant pain and stiffness relief within 2 hours and better mental health scores compared to non-users.
MS patients who used cannabis performed worse on cognitive tests and were twice as likely to be cognitively impaired ↗
MS patients who used cannabis performed significantly worse on cognitive tests across multiple domains and were twice as likely to be globally cognitively impaired.
Boosting endocannabinoid 2-AG protected against stomach bleeding caused by common painkillers in mice ↗
Boosting endocannabinoid 2-AG with a MAGL inhibitor prevented NSAID-induced stomach bleeding in mice through CB1 receptors, without tolerance development.
About half of inflammatory bowel disease patients had used cannabis, with one-third to half using it for symptom relief ↗
About half of IBD patients reported lifetime cannabis use, with 33-50% of users specifically using it for symptom relief, especially those with prior surgery and chronic pain.
Review for family doctors: cannabis helps chronic and nerve pain but carries addiction risk and psychotropic side effects ↗
Review for family doctors found cannabis helped chronic/neuropathic pain with addiction risk, and highlighted cannabinoid-opioid synergy that could reduce opioid dependence.
15 of 18 high-quality trials found cannabinoids significantly reduced chronic pain compared to placebo ↗
Systematic review found 15 of 18 high-quality trials showed significant analgesic effects of cannabinoids for chronic non-cancer pain, with no serious adverse effects.
Headaches were common among substance abusers, with cannabis use duration linked to higher rates ↗
Among 1,015 substance users, 27% had headaches (94.5% starting after drug use), with cannabis use duration specifically linked to higher headache rates.
A natural plant compound reduced pain by boosting endocannabinoids without binding to cannabinoid receptors ↗
Beta-amyrin did not bind cannabinoid receptors (correcting prior claims) but potently inhibited 2-AG breakdown, suggesting indirect cannabinoid-based pain relief.
Smoked cannabis significantly reduced MS spasticity and pain in a placebo-controlled trial ↗
Smoked cannabis significantly reduced MS spasticity and pain compared to placebo in 30 patients, but also impaired cognitive performance.
Clearing away the smoke: clinical evidence for medical marijuana with a prescribing guide ↗
Review of medical cannabis evidence supporting neuropathic pain and spasticity, with a practical physician algorithm for prescribing decisions.
Growing evidence that cannabis could reduce reliance on prescription opiates for chronic pain ↗
Review finding cannabis enhanced opiate pain relief, prevented tolerance, and potentially reduced opiate dependence, positioning it as a harm-reduction strategy.
New Chemical Compounds Can Precisely Target the Brain's Cannabis-Processing Enzymes ↗
A new class of chemical compounds can selectively block endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes in the brain, potentially offering pain and mood benefits without full psychoactive effects.
Sativex Shows Promise for Multiple Sclerosis Spasticity in Clinical Trials ↗
Review of clinical trial data found Sativex (THC/CBD spray) reduced MS spasticity symptoms and improved patients' ability to perform daily activities.
Five Strategies for Making Cannabinoid Medicines More Effective With Fewer Side Effects ↗
Review identified five strategies for making cannabinoid medicines more effective while reducing psychoactive side effects, covering applications from pain to neurodegeneration.
Nabiximols (Sativex) for MS Spasticity, Pain, and Bladder Problems: What the Trials Show ↗
Review found nabiximols (THC/CBD spray) effectively treated spasticity, pain, and bladder dysfunction in MS, though long-term data were limited.
Injecting Cannabinoids Directly Into Muscles Reduced Pain in Rats ↗
Cannabinoid agonists injected directly into muscles reduced pain in rats, with local administration outperforming systemic in one of two models tested.
The Endocannabinoid System: A Master Regulator of Brain Health and Disease ↗
Overview described the endocannabinoid system as a master regulator involved in neuroprotection, pain, memory, neurogenesis, and immune function.
Fibromyalgia Patients Using Cannabis Had More Mental Health Problems and Drug-Seeking Behavior ↗
Among 457 fibromyalgia patients, 13% used cannabinoids, with herbal cannabis use linked to mental illness, opioid drug-seeking, and male sex.
Blocking 2-AG Breakdown in the Spinal Cord Powerfully Reduced Pain Signaling in Rats ↗
Spinal administration of an enzyme inhibitor powerfully reduced pain signaling and blocked inflammation-induced sensitization in rats via endocannabinoid mechanisms.
Cannabis Extract Nearly Doubled the Rate of Muscle Stiffness Relief in Multiple Sclerosis ↗
Phase III trial found oral cannabis extract nearly doubled muscle stiffness relief compared to placebo in 279 MS patients, with benefits for pain and sleep.
Systematic Review: What CBD Does (and Does Not) Do in Humans ↗
Systematic review of 34 human studies found preliminary CBD benefits for anxiety, insomnia, and epilepsy, with complex THC interactions depending on delivery route.
How Endocannabinoid Enzyme Inhibitors Are Revealing the Different Roles of Anandamide and 2-AG ↗
Review detailed how enzyme-specific inhibitors revealed different roles for anandamide and 2-AG in pain, anxiety, and addiction, guiding therapeutic development.
Medical Cannabis Review: Pain and Spasticity Have the Best Evidence, but Safety Concerns Remain ↗
Review found medical cannabis has the best evidence for pain and spasticity, with dizziness as the most common side effect and adolescent psychosis risk as the main safety concern.
How the Cannabinoid System Controls Pain: From THC to Natural Brain Mechanisms ↗
Review described multiple cannabinoid pain-relief mechanisms, including CB2 agonists without psychoactive effects and a novel endocannabinoid circuit in the midbrain.
Long-Term THC/CBD Spray Was Well Tolerated for Cancer Pain With No Loss of Effect Over Time ↗
Long-term THC/CBD spray for cancer pain showed sustained relief without dose escalation or tolerance, with improved sleep, pain, and fatigue scores.
Low-Dose MAGL Inhibitor Maintained Pain Relief and Stomach Protection Without Causing Tolerance ↗
Low-dose MAGL inhibitor maintained pain relief and stomach protection without causing CB1 tolerance or dependence, unlike high doses which caused both.
THC/CBD Spray for MS Nerve Pain Showed Mixed Results but Prevented Relapse When Stopped ↗
THC/CBD spray for MS pain failed its primary endpoint at 14 weeks (50% vs 45% placebo), but withdrawal showed clear benefit: 57% lost control on placebo vs 24% on spray.
THC Reduced Pain Unpleasantness Without Reducing Pain Intensity, Working Through the Amygdala ↗
THC reduced pain unpleasantness without changing pain intensity, working through the amygdala by disconnecting emotional from sensory pain processing in the brain.
Joint Mobilization Relieved Post-Surgical Pain Through Cannabinoid Receptors, Enhanced by FAAH and MAGL Inhibitors ↗
Joint mobilization reduced post-surgical pain through CB1 and CB2 receptors, and FAAH/MAGL inhibitors significantly extended the pain-relieving effect in mice.
Cannabis Had a Long History as a Headache Treatment Before Prohibition, With No Controlled Studies Since ↗
Cannabis was a standard migraine treatment before prohibition. Patients continue to use it for headaches, but no controlled studies exist due to Schedule 1 classification.
Sativex Patients and Caregivers Reported Improved Daily Function and Reduced Need for Other Medications ↗
Survey of 124 Sativex patients found majority reported improved daily function, reduced use of other anti-spasticity medications, and fewer healthcare visits.
Sativex Spray Provided Meaningful Spasticity Relief for MS Patients Who Failed Other Treatments ↗
Sativex spray reduced MS spasticity by 30%+ in three-quarters of initial responders, with continued benefit over a year and no dose escalation needed.
The Cannabinoid and Opioid Systems Interact Closely, Suggesting Cannabis Could Help Manage Opiate Withdrawal ↗
Review found extensive cannabinoid-opioid interactions in the brain's stress circuits, suggesting endocannabinoid targeting could help manage opiate dependence and withdrawal.
Sativex Was Safe and Effective for MS Spasticity Over Nearly a Year With No Tolerance Development ↗
Sativex for MS spasticity over 334 days average showed no tolerance, no psychosis, no withdrawal symptoms, and maintained spasticity benefit.
Clinical evidence for cannabis in cancer care was limited but growing ↗
Review found clinical evidence for cannabis in cancer symptom management was only partial, with lab-based anti-cancer findings having no clinical research support.
Evidence review of medical marijuana for neurological conditions ↗
Expert review found clinical evidence for cannabinoids in MS spasticity, refractory pain, and nausea, with emerging evidence for epilepsy, dystonia, tics, and other neurological conditions.
A targeted endocannabinoid enzyme blocker reduced pain without producing a cannabis-like high ↗
A selective endocannabinoid enzyme blocker (KML29) reduced inflammatory and nerve pain in mice without cannabis-like side effects like sedation or immobility.
Oral THC produced psychoactive effects comparable to smoking marijuana in chronic pain patients ↗
In chronic pain patients, oral THC at 10-20 mg produced psychoactive effects comparable in peak intensity to smoking marijuana, peaking at 2 hours vs. 30 minutes for smoking.
American Academy of Neurology systematic review: what medical marijuana evidence actually shows ↗
The AAN systematic review found oral cannabis extract effective for MS spasticity and pain, but ineffective for tremor and of unknown efficacy for epilepsy (pre-CBD trials).
Many Everyday Activities and Medications May Boost the Body's Own Cannabinoid System ↗
Systematic review found that exercise, massage, acupuncture, several medication classes, and lifestyle factors all upregulate the endocannabinoid system, relevant to conditions like migraine and fibromyalgia.
Cannabis Showed Promise for Crohn's Disease, but Evidence Remains Limited ↗
Review of early clinical data found cannabis improved Crohn's disease activity scores in small trials, but low-dose CBD alone did not work, and larger controlled studies are needed.
New Data on Sativex for MS Spasticity: No Cognitive Decline and No Driving Impairment ↗
Review of data from 1,000+ MS patients found Sativex did not cause cognitive decline at 12 months, did not impair driving, and maintained effectiveness at lower real-world doses.
Overview of Cannabinoid Medicine: From MS Spasticity to Epilepsy to Addiction Treatment ↗
Broad review of cannabinoid medicine covered therapeutic potential in MS spasticity, pain, nausea, epilepsy, psychosis, and addiction, contrasting THC and CBD pharmacology.
THC/CBD Spray Helped Some Patients with Treatment-Resistant Nerve Pain ↗
RCT of 246 neuropathic pain patients found THC/CBD spray achieved significant 30% pain response rates (p=0.034) and improved sleep quality versus placebo.
Revisiting the Theory That Some Chronic Conditions Stem from Endocannabinoid Deficiency ↗
Ten-year review of the clinical endocannabinoid deficiency hypothesis argues growing evidence supports low endocannabinoid tone as a factor in migraine, fibromyalgia, and IBS.
Cannabis Relieved IBD Symptoms but Was Linked to Higher Surgery Risk in Crohn's Disease ↗
Survey of 313 IBD patients found 83.9% reported cannabis improved pain, but Crohn's patients who used cannabis >6 months had 5x higher odds of requiring surgery.
Comprehensive Review of Sativex for MS Spasticity: How It Works and What the Trials Show ↗
Comprehensive drug review confirmed Sativex significantly reduces MS spasticity in patients who respond to an initial 4-week trial, with early dizziness and fatigue as main side effects.
The Endocannabinoid System as a Target for New Pain Medications ↗
Review of endocannabinoid-based pain therapy highlights FAAH and MAGL inhibitors as promising approaches that boost natural pain-modulating molecules locally, potentially avoiding psychoactive effects.
AAN Guidelines: Cannabis Extract Effective for MS Spasticity Symptoms and Pain ↗
AAN guidelines gave Level A (highest) recommendation for oral cannabis extract for MS spasticity symptoms and pain, while noting ineffectiveness for objective spasticity measures.
AAN Official Guideline: Cannabis for MS Spasticity, Pain, and Urinary Symptoms ↗
Official AAN guideline recommends oral cannabis extract for MS spasticity symptoms and pain (Level A), with Sativex for symptoms/pain/urinary frequency (Level B).
A CB2 Receptor Drug Reduced Pancreatic Pain and Protected Tissue in Rats ↗
CB2 receptor agonist reduced pain behaviors and protected pancreatic tissue from damage in a rat model of chronic pancreatitis without affecting brain function.
Cannabis in Cancer Care: From Nausea Control to Potential Tumor-Fighting Properties ↗
Review of cannabis in cancer care covers established uses (chemotherapy nausea, wasting) and emerging potential for cancer pain (possibly synergistic with opioids) and preclinical antitumor effects.
Can cannabinoids help with tremor from Parkinson's, MS, and other movement disorders? ↗
Review of cannabinoid potential for tremor in Parkinson's, MS, and other motor disorders found high receptor density in motor brain regions but inconclusive clinical evidence.
A comprehensive history and science review of medical cannabis, with a focus on headache and migraine ↗
Comprehensive review of cannabis in medicine found deep historical roots in headache treatment and relevant pharmacology, but almost no controlled clinical trial evidence for migraine.
For most conditions that qualify for medical marijuana, there isn't enough evidence to support it yet ↗
Review of evidence across 13 state-approved medical marijuana conditions found insufficient evidence for most, with the strongest support for chronic pain and muscle spasticity.
Prescription cannabinoids showed effectiveness for MS spasticity and pain, but herbal marijuana coverage remains unlikely ↗
Commentary on AAN review found prescription cannabinoids effective for MS spasticity and pain with insurance coverage justified, while herbal marijuana remains federally illegal and uncovered.
A new CBD derivative (HU-444) reduced arthritis inflammation in mice without any psychoactive effects ↗
Novel CBD derivative HU-444 reduced arthritis severity, liver inflammation, and TNF-alpha production in mice without psychoactive effects and without the ability to convert to THC.
Among 1.3 million VA patients on opioids for pain, more opioid prescriptions were associated with higher rates of cannabis use disorder ↗
Analysis of 1.3 million VA patients found more opioid prescriptions associated with higher rates of cannabis use disorder, suggesting the substances complement rather than substitute.
THC/CBD spray maintained pain relief for 38 weeks in neuropathic pain patients without dose escalation ↗
THC/CBD spray maintained neuropathic pain relief (6.9 to 4.2 on 10-point scale) over 38 weeks in 380 patients without dose escalation, with 62% completing the study.
Older Adults Using Cannabis as a Safer Alternative to Other Drugs ↗
Qualitative study found Baby Boomer cannabis users consciously substituted cannabis for alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substances, perceiving it as safer and less addictive.
How Cannabinoids Regulate Nausea, Vomiting, and Gut Pain ↗
Review found cannabinoid receptors throughout the GI tract regulate nausea and vomiting, but clinical evidence for visceral pain relief in conditions like IBS was lacking.
Blocking Anandamide Breakdown Eliminated Migraine-Like Pain in Mice ↗
Mice lacking the FAAH enzyme were completely protected from migraine-like pain, and FAAH-inhibiting drugs reproduced this protection through CB1 receptors.
Targeting Pain Nerves Outside the Brain Could Make Cannabinoid Pain Drugs Practical ↗
Review found targeting cannabinoid receptors on peripheral nerves could provide pain relief without psychoactive effects, with promise for diabetic and chemotherapy neuropathy.
People With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Were More Likely to Have Used Cannabis and Started Younger ↗
A national survey found that people with IBD had higher rates of cannabis use (67.3% vs. 60%), started younger, and used more per session than matched controls.
The Most Comprehensive Review of Medical Cannabis Evidence Found Modest Benefits for Pain, Spasticity, and Nausea ↗
79 RCTs: strong signal for chemo nausea, but pain relief averaged under 0.5 points on a 0-10 scale.
Who Uses Medical Cannabis Dispensaries in Rhode Island and Why ↗
A survey of 200 Rhode Island dispensary patients found most were male, college-educated, and insured, using cannabis primarily for chronic pain, with 20% reporting a substance use history.
How Cannabis Fits Into Cancer Care: Symptom Management and Beyond ↗
A clinical review found cannabis helps cancer patients with pain, nausea, appetite, and neuropathy, with preclinical data hinting at possible anti-tumor effects that lack clinical trial confirmation.
A GPR55 Receptor Agonist Reduced Morphine Reward and Physical Dependence in Mice ↗
The atypical cannabinoid O-1602, a GPR55 receptor agonist, reduced morphine reward and physical dependence symptoms in mice, suggesting a potential new target for opioid dependence.
One in Five Canadians With MS Uses Cannabis, and Half Would Use It If Legal ↗
A survey of 225 Canadian MS patients found 19.5% currently use cannabis (mainly for sleep, pain, anxiety, spasticity), with half saying they would use if legal.
Medical Cannabis Patients Reported 64% Less Opioid Use After Starting Cannabis ↗
A survey of 244 chronic pain patients at a Michigan dispensary found medical cannabis use was associated with 64% less opioid use, fewer medication side effects, and 45% better quality of life.
Cannabinoids for MS Spasticity and Pain: What the Clinical Trials Show ↗
Randomized trials provide Class 1-2 evidence for cannabinoids treating MS spasticity and pain, but cognitive side effects are a particular concern in this already-impaired population.
It Takes Nearly 6 Months for New Jersey Patients to Get Their First Medical Marijuana Treatment ↗
New Jersey medical marijuana patients waited nearly 6 months on average to get treatment, with chronic pain and spasticity as the top conditions and half referred by physicians.
The Evidence on Cannabinoids for Cancer Symptoms and Potential Anti-Tumor Effects ↗
Cannabinoids modestly reduce cancer pain and are useful backup antiemetics, dronabinol improves taste disturbances, and preclinical data show anticancer potential through multiple mechanisms.
Systematic Review Finds Insufficient Evidence for Cannabinoids in Rheumatic Pain ↗
A systematic review found only four small, short trials of cannabinoids for rheumatic pain, with inconsistent results. The evidence was insufficient to support clinical recommendations despite some potential for pain and sleep benefits.
Review Confirms Very Limited Evidence for Cannabinoids in Rheumatic Disease Pain ↗
A systematic review of four trials with 203 patients found limited evidence for cannabinoids in rheumatic pain, with nearly half of patients experiencing side effects and one osteoarthritis trial terminated for futility.
Adding THC to Morphine Increases Pain Tolerance Buildup but Does Not Worsen Withdrawal in Monkeys ↗
Rhesus monkeys receiving morphine plus THC developed faster pain relief tolerance than those on morphine alone, but THC did not worsen opioid withdrawal when treatment stopped.
Computer Modeling of the CB2 Receptor Reveals How Its Active and Inactive States Differ and Identifies New Drug Candidates ↗
Computer modeling of the CB2 cannabinoid receptor in active and inactive states identified key structural differences and led to the discovery of two novel compounds, advancing rational drug design for CB2-targeted therapies.
Genetic Stress Vulnerability Changes How Repeated Stress Affects Pain and the Endocannabinoid System ↗
Stress-normal and stress-vulnerable rat strains showed opposite pain responses after repeated stress, with matching differences in endocannabinoid system changes in the spinal cord and amygdala.
Medical Cannabis in Canada: Evidence for Neuropathic Pain and Practical Barriers to Use ↗
Review of medical cannabis in Canada found strong evidence for neuropathic pain relief but identified significant barriers including cost, stigma, and physician reluctance from both patient and provider perspectives.
Synthetic THC Shows Modest Ability to Suppress Opioid Withdrawal but Causes Too Many Side Effects ↗
An inpatient study found dronabinol provided modest opioid withdrawal relief at higher doses, but with concerning side effects including rapid heart rate and sedation, making it an unlikely clinical candidate.
A Clinical Guide to Using Cannabinoid Therapies for Cancer Patients at Every Stage of Disease ↗
A practical oncology guide describes how cannabinoid therapies can address pain, nausea, and appetite loss in cancer patients at all disease stages, potentially reducing the need for multiple other medications.
What Healthcare Professionals Need to Know When Patients Ask About Medical Marijuana ↗
Review of 68 studies finds medical marijuana shares uses with approved cannabis medications (mainly pain and nausea) but evidence for marijuana itself remains limited, with moderate support only for pain and seizures.
Twelve Years of Evidence: Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Gains Objective Support ↗
The 2016 evidence update that moved CECD from speculation to supported hypothesis: CSF anandamide reduced in migraineurs (p < 0.0001), PET imaging shows CB1 changes in PTSD, platelet studies confirm altered endocannabinoid levels, genetic associations identified.
Social Rejection in Adolescent Rats Changed Pain Sensitivity Through the Endocannabinoid System ↗
Adolescent rats experiencing social rejection from unresponsive partners developed altered pain sensitivity through endocannabinoid CB1 signaling, linking social and physical pain processing.
Medical Implications of Cannabinoids: What the Evidence Supports and Where Caution Is Needed ↗
Comprehensive review finds strong evidence for cannabinoids in chronic pain and MS symptoms, emphasizes careful patient selection and informed consent about cognitive, behavioral, and health risks.
THC:CBD Spray Improved MS Spasticity in Real-World Italian Clinics at Lower Doses Than Clinical Trials ↗
Large Italian observational study finds MS patients achieve spasticity improvements with THC:CBD spray at one-third the clinical trial dose and one-third the adverse event rate in real-world practice.
Cochrane Review Found No Convincing Evidence That Cannabinoids Help Fibromyalgia ↗
Cochrane review found only 2 small studies (72 patients) of cannabinoids for fibromyalgia, all with very low quality evidence, concluding no convincing support for their use.
An Endocannabinoid-Boosting Drug Enhanced Morphine's Pain Relief Without the Side Effects ↗
MAGL inhibitor MJN110 synergized with morphine for neuropathic pain relief without constipation, cannabis-like effects, or tolerance development after 6 days of dosing.
Parkinson's patients reported significant improvements in falls, pain, depression, tremor, and sleep with medical cannabis ↗
Survey of 47 Parkinson's patients found large self-reported improvements in falls, pain, and tremor with medical cannabis, but 17% experienced confusion or hallucinations.
Review of clinical studies finds some evidence that cannabis-based medicines reduce cancer pain ↗
Review of five clinical studies found some evidence that THC and CBD formulations reduce cancer pain, with effective doses as low as 2.7mg THC plus 2.5mg CBD, but the evidence base remains small.
The endocannabinoid system may offer new approaches to managing endometriosis pain ↗
Review identifying the endocannabinoid system as a promising pharmacological target for the complex, multi-mechanism pain of endometriosis.
46% of cannabis users reported replacing their prescription medications — mostly opioids, anxiety meds, and antidepressants ↗
Nearly half of 2,774 cannabis users reported substituting cannabis for prescription drugs — opioids, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants most commonly replaced. Medical users were 5x more likely to substitute.
First large Italian study of cannabis for chronic pain found 76% of patients continued treatment after initial follow-up ↗
First large Italian study of medical cannabis for chronic pain found 76% of 614 patients continued treatment, with no severe side effects reported.
Using Cannabis Compounds to Treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Where the Science Stands ↗
Expert review finding that cannabinoids may help IBD symptoms like pain and diarrhea, but clinical evidence remains insufficient for evidence-based treatment guidelines.
How Cannabis Use Patterns Differ by Age Among Medical Dispensary Patients ↗
Dispensary study of 217 patients finding younger medical cannabis users consume more and show more problematic use than older users, with early initiation as a key risk factor.
What High-Quality Reviews Say About Cannabis for Pain and Palliative Care ↗
Umbrella review of 11 systematic reviews finding limited evidence for THC/CBD spray in neuropathic pain and inadequate evidence for cannabinoids in cancer pain, rheumatic pain, or anorexia.
Medical Cannabis for Pain: Separating Evidence From Misconceptions ↗
Narrative review identifying chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and MS spasticity as the three conditions with strongest evidence for medical cannabis, while highlighting the gap between patient expectations and science.
Cannabis Use Among Older Americans: Public Health Concern or Useful Alternative? ↗
Essay examining rising cannabis use among Americans 65+, arguing cannabis may be a viable alternative to opioids for pain but calling for more research on this understudied population.
Could Cannabis Be a Treatment for Autoimmune Diseases? ↗
Review finding cannabis compounds modulate immune function by reducing inflammation, with early clinical evidence for MS, IBD, and fibromyalgia and preclinical promise for rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes.
Who Gets Medical Cannabis in Switzerland? A Look at 1,193 Approved Patients ↗
Analysis of 1,193 Swiss patients approved for medical cannabis showing 52% growth in one year, with chronic pain and spasticity as primary conditions and 91% paying out of pocket.
Cannabis for Pain and Headaches: What Physicians Need to Know ↗
Physician-focused primer reviewing cannabis compounds for pain and headaches, covering FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and the emerging role of terpenes and flavonoids.
Cannabis for Brain Tumor Patients: Symptom Relief and Possible Anti-Tumor Effects ↗
Review showing cannabinoids provide established palliative benefits for brain tumor patients (pain, nausea, anxiety) and demonstrated 50-95% tumor regression in animal glioma studies, with synergistic effects in combination therapies.
63% of Medical Cannabis Patients Said They Used It as a Substitute for Prescription Drugs ↗
Survey of 271 Canadian medical cannabis patients finding 63% used cannabis as a substitute for prescriptions (30% opioids, 16% benzodiazepines), with 42% also buying from illegal sources.
Where Cannabinoid Medicine Stands After Five Years of THC/CBD Spray Use ↗
Expert review confirming THC/CBD spray efficacy for MS spasticity after five years of clinical use and cataloging expanding research into cannabinoids for pain, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and epilepsy.
Brain Mapping Shows How THC Activates Specific Neural Systems in Awake Rats ↗
First fMRI study of THC effects in awake rats showing low-dose THC produced distinct activation patterns in cannabinoid-rich regions, pain circuits, and hippocampal networks.
Meta-Analysis: Cannabinoids Provide Small Pain Relief for Chronic Neuropathic Pain ↗
Meta-analysis of 11 RCTs finding selective cannabinoids provide a small but significant reduction in neuropathic pain (-0.65 on 0-10 scale), with improvements in sleep and quality of life.
What Randomized Trials Say About Medical Marijuana for Psychiatric and Neurologic Conditions ↗
Review of randomized trials of plant-based cannabis (excluding synthetics) for psychiatric and neurologic conditions finding limited evidence across conditions, highlighting the gap between policy approval and clinical evidence.
What Works for Abdominal Pain in IBD? Relaxation and Cannabis Show Promise ↗
Systematic review finding few tested treatments for IBD abdominal pain, with relaxation/CBT showing the most consistent benefit and one controlled cannabis trial showing promise.
CBD-Rich Hemp Oil Improved Quality of Life in Girls with Chronic Symptoms After HPV Vaccination ↗
Small observational study found CBD-rich hemp oil improved physical functioning, vitality, and pain in young women with chronic symptoms after HPV vaccination, though one-third of participants dropped out.
CBD Blocked Pain and Nerve Damage in Rat Osteoarthritis, Especially When Given Early ↗
Rat study found that locally administered CBD reduced osteoarthritis pain and, when given early, prevented pain development and protected joint nerves from damage.
Most Medical Cannabis Patients Reported Reducing Their Use of Opioids, Sleep, and Anxiety Medications ↗
Survey of 1,513 medical cannabis patients found over 75% reduced opioid use and 65-72% reduced sleep and anxiety medications, though their primary care doctors often did not know.
What Chronic Pain Patients Like and Dislike Most About Medical Cannabis ↗
Survey of 984 dispensary members found patients rated medical cannabis 74.6% effective for their conditions, with cost, side effects, and stigma as the main drawbacks.
97% of Medical Cannabis Patients Said They Could Reduce Their Opioid Use When Using Cannabis ↗
Survey of nearly 2,900 medical cannabis patients found 97% reported being able to reduce opioid use with cannabis, and 81% found cannabis alone more effective than the combination.
A Compound from Black Pepper Reduces Inflammation and Pain by Boosting the Body's Own Cannabinoids ↗
Mouse study found that guineensine from black pepper produced potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects by blocking endocannabinoid reuptake, with effects partially mediated through CB1 receptors.
Cannabis Pharmacology Beyond THC and CBD: How Terpenes and Lesser-Known Compounds Contribute to the Plant's Effects ↗
Major pharmacology review arguing that cannabis's therapeutic potential involves far more than THC and CBD, with terpenes and lesser-known compounds providing meaningful synergistic pharmacological activity.
Cannabis in Cancer Care: Best Evidence for Nausea and Pain, Emerging Evidence for Appetite, Sleep, and Anxiety ↗
Review finding the strongest evidence for cannabis in cancer care is for nausea and pain, with emerging evidence for appetite, sleep, and anxiety, plus preclinical anti-cancer effects.
A Drug That Boosts Both Endocannabinoids Enhanced Morphine's Pain Relief and Reduced Heroin-Seeking Behavior in Mice ↗
Mouse study found a dual endocannabinoid-boosting compound reduced pain, enhanced morphine's effects at low doses, and decreased heroin-seeking behavior.
Major national report found strong evidence that cannabis treats chronic pain, nausea, and spasticity ↗
NASEM review of 10,000 abstracts found conclusive evidence for cannabis treating chronic pain, chemo nausea, and MS spasticity, with moderate evidence for sleep.
Evidence for medical cannabis in palliative care remains inconclusive despite patient interest ↗
Review finds strong public support but inconclusive clinical evidence for medicinal cannabis in palliative care, recommending clinical trials and careful off-label prescribing for refractory symptoms.
Most migraine patients using medical cannabis chose high-THC hybrid strains and many replaced opioids ↗
Survey of 2,032 medical cannabis patients found 88% of headache patients had probable migraine, preferred high-THC hybrids, and 41-60% replaced prescriptions, most often opioids.
A comprehensive guide to the medicinal properties of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in cannabis ↗
Comprehensive review catalogues medicinal properties of individual cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, explaining the entourage effect and building the case for strain-specific cannabis medicine.
The endocannabinoid system shows promise for bladder pain but faces challenges in clinical translation ↗
Review finds strong preclinical evidence for endocannabinoid-based bladder pain treatment but identifies pharmacological challenges including TRPV1 activation and complex enzyme interactions.
Only 7 randomized trials have tested smoked cannabis, and the evidence for most conditions was limited ↗
Review of only 7 randomized trials of smoked cannabis found no pain benefit, impractically brief glaucoma relief, but consistent appetite stimulation.
Cannabis and the endocannabinoid system may play roles in several ear, nose, and throat conditions ↗
Review finds the endocannabinoid system is involved in several ENT conditions, with therapeutic potential for pain, inflammation, and head/neck cancers alongside known risks from cannabis smoking.
A 4-year study found no evidence that cannabis improved pain or reduced opioid use in chronic pain patients ↗
Four-year study of 1,514 chronic pain patients on opioids found cannabis users had worse pain, more anxiety, and lower self-efficacy, with no evidence of opioid reduction.
Three patients with a rare blistering skin disease reported faster healing and less pain using topical CBD oil ↗
Three patients with the rare blistering condition epidermolysis bullosa reported faster wound healing, less blistering, and pain relief from topical CBD, with one stopping opioids completely.
Comprehensive review of endocannabinoid system targets for treating inflammatory and neuropathic pain ↗
Major review found endocannabinoid system targets produce reliable pain relief in preclinical models with opioid-sparing potential, though clinical translation for enzyme inhibitors lags behind.
Comprehensive review of approved and emerging medical uses of cannabinoids across multiple conditions ↗
Comprehensive review cataloged six approved cannabinoid medications and evidence across pain, epilepsy, cancer, neurodegeneration, PTSD, anxiety, and addiction, spanning the full endocannabinoid system.
Cannabinoids show preclinical promise for inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer but clinical evidence is lacking ↗
Review found cannabinoids show preclinical anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects relevant to IBD and colorectal cancer, but clinical evidence remains limited to questionnaires and small studies.
94% of fibromyalgia patients who used cannabis reported pain relief, though most were not medically licensed ↗
Israeli survey of 383 fibromyalgia patients found 84% used cannabis with 94% reporting pain relief, though only 44% were medically licensed and most smoked rather than using other methods.
All 26 fibromyalgia patients improved on every measure after starting medical cannabis, with half stopping other medications ↗
Small study of 26 fibromyalgia patients found all improved on every measure after medical cannabis, with 50% stopping all other medications and only mild adverse effects in 30%.
70% of people with spinal cord or brain injuries used cannabis before injury, and about half continued after ↗
Colorado survey found 70% of SCI/TBI patients used cannabis before injury and 48% after, with spasticity reduction (SCI) and recreation/stress relief (TBI) as primary reasons.
Cannabis-based medicines may be cost-effective for MS spasticity, but evidence is uncertain and industry-influenced ↗
Systematic review found cannabis-based medicines potentially cost-effective for MS spasticity in European analyses, but evidence limited to 10 studies (all MS), mostly industry-sponsored, with uncertain quality of life benefits.
Your Blood Carries Endocannabinoids That Track Exercise, Stress, Sleep, and Inflammation ↗
Review mapping how blood endocannabinoid levels shift with exercise, sleep, stress, pain, and metabolism — showing why cannabis affects so many different systems.
A review found cannabis has not been proven to cause lung cancer but evidence remains limited ↗
Review found smoking cannabis has not been proven to cause lung cancer, while noting emerging therapeutic potential for chemo-related nausea and cancer pain. Better studies needed.
A review found emerging but insufficient evidence for cannabinoids in treating rheumatic diseases ↗
Nature Reviews Rheumatology review found emerging evidence for cannabinoid immunomodulatory effects relevant to rheumatic diseases, but concluded evidence is insufficient to recommend cannabis treatment for these conditions.
A European survey found striking differences between countries in cannabis medicine availability, approval, and insurance coverage ↗
European survey found dramatic country-by-country differences in cannabis medicine availability, with THC/CBD spray approved in 21 countries but broader medical cannabis access limited to a few.
CBD-enriched cannabis oil improved spasticity, pain, and sleep in children with complex motor disorders ↗
Pilot study of 25 children with complex motor disorders found CBD-enriched cannabis oil improved spasticity, dystonia, sleep, pain, and quality of life over 5 months, with rare adverse effects.
A CB2 receptor drug suppressed neuropathic pain without tolerance and prevented morphine tolerance in mice ↗
CB2 agonist LY2828360 suppressed neuropathic pain without tolerance in mice, prevented morphine tolerance, and worked even in morphine-tolerant animals. Its G protein-biased signaling may explain the sustained efficacy.
A provincial survey found 43% of cancer patients had used cannabis, with 18% using it recently, mostly for pain and nausea ↗
Survey of 1,987 cancer patients found 43% had ever used cannabis and 18% used it recently, mostly for pain and nausea. Only 10% got it from medical dispensaries; 80% got it from friends.
A Cochrane review of 16 trials found cannabis-based medicines provide modest pain relief for neuropathic pain but with significant side effects ↗
Cochrane review of 16 trials (1,750 patients) found cannabis-based medicines provide modest neuropathic pain relief (NNT 20 for 50% relief) with significant side effects (61% nervous system AEs, 17% psychiatric AEs). Harms may outweigh benefits.
A review of reviews found cannabinoids may have modest effects on MS pain and spasticity, but evidence for other symptoms is lacking ↗
Review of 11 systematic reviews found cannabinoids may have modest benefits for MS pain and spasticity, but evidence for other symptoms is insufficient and no studies compare cannabinoids to existing treatments.
A survey of 455 medical cannabis patients found strain preferences were highly dispensary-specific, with many using sativa by day and indica at night ↗
Survey of 455 medical cannabis patients found 1,987 strains available, with preferences highly dispensary-specific and many patients using sativa by day and indica at night.
Cannabis Shows Promise for Managing Symptoms in Advanced Kidney Disease ↗
Review suggests cannabinoids could help manage pain, nausea, appetite loss, and itching in advanced kidney disease patients, but direct evidence in this population remains limited.
Strong Evidence Supports Cannabinoids for MS Spasticity and Pain ↗
Strong evidence from systematic reviews shows cannabinoids (nabiximols, oral cannabis extract, synthetic THC) are probably effective for MS-related spasticity and pain at doses of 20-40 mg THC daily.
Medical Cannabis Patients Stopped Using Dangerous Prescription Drugs at High Rates ↗
After joining New Mexico's medical cannabis program, 34% of chronic pain patients stopped all scheduled prescription medications, with significant monthly decreases across all measures compared to non-enrolled patients.
Large Meta-Analysis Found Cannabis Provides Only Modest Pain Relief With Significant Side Effects ↗
Meta-analysis of 104 studies (9,958 patients) found cannabinoids provide a statistically significant but clinically small pain reduction (3 mm on a 100 mm scale), with 1 in 6 patients experiencing adverse events.
Medical Cannabis Laws Were Linked to Fewer Opioid Deaths and Lower Healthcare Costs ↗
Systematic review of 10 studies found medical cannabis laws associated with decreased opioid use, fewer opioid hospitalizations, lower overdose deaths, and reduced healthcare costs.
No Evidence Cannabis Enhances Athletic Performance, but Pain and Recovery Benefits Deserve Study ↗
Review found no evidence cannabis enhances athletic performance, limited evidence of serious harms in athletes, and promising but unconfirmed potential for pain management and concussion symptom relief.
Oncologist Makes the Case That Cancer Doctors Should Recommend Cannabis to Patients ↗
Oncologist argues cancer doctors should recommend cannabis for its ability to simultaneously address pain, nausea, appetite, mood, and sleep - a rare multi-symptom intervention in palliative care.
Only 18% of prescribed cannabinoid patients in Manitoba were still using them after one year ↗
A study of 5,452 cannabinoid prescription users in Manitoba found only 18% continued use at one year, with median duration of 31 days varying by diagnosis and medication type.
A cannabis-derived compound reduced HIV drug-induced nerve pain in mice through CB2 receptors ↗
Beta-caryophyllene, a non-psychoactive cannabis compound, prevented and reduced HIV drug-induced nerve pain in mice by activating CB2 receptors and reducing inflammatory cytokines.
Cancer patients in Minnesota's medical cannabis program reported significant symptom improvement across the board ↗
Cancer patients in Minnesota's medical cannabis program reported significant improvement across all 8 tracked symptoms, with 27-50% achieving lasting clinically meaningful reductions and only 10.5% reporting side effects.
Women with endometriosis rated cannabis as their most effective self-management strategy for pain ↗
In a survey of 484 women with endometriosis, cannabis was rated the most effective self-management strategy for pain (7.6/10), ahead of heat, CBD oil, and dietary changes.
Most adult-use dispensary customers reported using cannabis for pain or sleep and cutting back on other medications ↗
A survey of 1,000 Colorado recreational dispensary customers found 65% used cannabis for pain and 74% for sleep, with most reporting they reduced or stopped using other medications including opioids.
A comprehensive profile of THC: from ancient medicine to modern controversy ↗
A comprehensive review of THC covers its pharmacology as a CB1 partial agonist, approved uses for pain and nausea, and ongoing debates about psychosis risk, cognitive effects, and addiction potential in 192 million users worldwide.
A cannabis compound reduced bladder inflammation and pain in mice better than the standard treatment ↗
Beta-caryophyllene, a cannabis compound with GRAS safety status, reduced bladder inflammation and pain in mice better than the FDA-approved treatment DMSO through CB2 receptor activation.
Older adults in Colorado want more cannabis education from doctors but feel stigma prevents open conversations ↗
Focus groups with 136 Colorado adults over 60 found older adults want cannabis education from providers but stigma and lack of research prevent meaningful conversations about use.
About 80% of medical cannabis users with chronic pain reported substituting it for traditional pain medications ↗
A survey of 1,321 chronic pain patients found 80% substituted cannabis for traditional pain meds, including 53% for opioids, citing fewer side effects and better symptom control.
Women, medical-only users, and cannabis novices prefer lower-THC products and edibles over smoking ↗
A survey of 1,321 chronic pain patients found wide variability in cannabis preferences by sex and experience, with only 2.6% receiving medical professional guidance on product selection.
CBD shows therapeutic potential across a wide range of neuropsychiatric disorders with few side effects ↗
A review found CBD shows therapeutic potential across autism, anxiety, psychosis, pain, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases, with mainly diarrhea and somnolence as side effects.
Most Italian cancer patients know about medical cannabis but almost none learned about it from their doctors ↗
Among 232 Italian cancer patients, 81% knew about medical cannabis but only 2% learned from healthcare professionals, while 34% had considered using it, revealing a clinician communication failure.
MS patients who use cannabis for symptoms face stigma that prevents open conversations with nurses ↗
A review found MS patients commonly use cannabis for symptoms but avoid discussing it with nurses due to stigma, highlighting a communication gap that undermines person-centered care.
Veterans with both opioid and cannabis use disorders had fewer opioid prescriptions but more psychiatric hospitalizations ↗
Large veteran study found co-occurring opioid and cannabis use disorders linked to fewer opioid prescriptions but higher psychiatric admissions and homelessness compared to opioid use disorder alone.
CB1 receptor blockers caused diarrhea so consistently they might actually treat constipation-dominant IBS ↗
Meta-analysis of 18 trials shows CB1 receptor blockers consistently caused diarrhea and GI symptoms, suggesting potential repurposing for constipation-predominant IBS if psychiatric side effects can be avoided.
Canadian rheumatology group says no evidence supports medical cannabis for joint diseases but offers pragmatic guidance ↗
Canadian Rheumatology Association finds zero clinical trials and insufficient evidence for cannabis in joint diseases, but issues pragmatic guidance acknowledging widespread patient use.
Boosting endocannabinoids in tissue reduced heightened pain in a depression mouse model ↗
Mouse study shows depression-induced pain amplification involves changes in brain endocannabinoid levels, and locally boosting endocannabinoids reduced the heightened pain response only in depressed animals.
Lancet review finds strong evidence for CBD in severe epilepsy but not for other neurological disorders ↗
Lancet Neurology review finds strong RCT evidence for CBD in severe childhood epilepsies and some cannabis treatments for MS, but no demonstrated benefit for Huntington's, ADHD, or dementia.
Half of Danish MS patients have used cannabis, mostly illegally, reporting high efficacy for pain and spasticity ↗
Largest MS cannabis survey finds 49% of 2,009 Danish patients have used cannabis, mostly illegally, reporting high efficacy for pain and spasticity with mild side effects, while 44% of non-users would consider it if legalized.
CBD helped manage chronic pain and mood disorder in a patient with neurofibromatosis ↗
Case report of CBD use for chronic pain and mood disorder in neurofibromatosis type 1, suggesting potential but requiring controlled trials for validation.
Half of MS patients use cannabis medicinally, but neurologists have limited prescribing guidance ↗
Clinical review for neurologists notes about half of MS patients use cannabis medicinally, while practitioners lack prescribing guidance and pharmaceutical-grade products remain restricted.
CBD reduced diabetic nerve pain in rats through serotonin receptors, not cannabinoid receptors ↗
Rat study shows CBD reduces diabetic nerve pain through spinal cord serotonin 5-HT1A receptors rather than cannabinoid receptors, with chronic treatment restoring depleted serotonin levels.
Can cannabis help people reduce their opioid use for pain? ↗
Review of evidence on cannabis as a potential substitute or complement to opioids for pain management, finding promising but preliminary support.
Cannabis shows promise for cancer symptom management but evidence gaps persist ↗
Review finds reasonable evidence for cannabis in cancer-related nausea, appetite loss, and pain, with promising data for neuropathy and sleep issues.
Scoping review maps what is known about cannabis use around surgery ↗
Scoping review identifies altered pain processing, anesthetic requirements, and withdrawal risk as key perioperative concerns for cannabis users, but notes limited evidence.
Daily cannabis use associated with 50% lower odds of daily illicit opioid use among people with chronic pain ↗
Longitudinal study of 1,152 people with chronic pain found daily cannabis use associated with 50% lower odds of daily illicit opioid use.
CB2 receptor drug AM1710 relieved chemo-induced pain and delayed morphine tolerance in mice ↗
CB2 agonist AM1710 reliably reduced chemo-induced nerve pain and delayed morphine tolerance in mice, but was ineffective for inflammatory or surgical pain.
Large survey of Canadian medical cannabis patients reveals widespread substitution for prescription drugs, opioids, and alcohol ↗
Survey of 2,032 Canadian medical cannabis patients found 69% substituted for prescription drugs, with 59% of opioid substituters reporting complete cessation.
Post-approval trials confirm THC:CBD spray is safe and effective for resistant MS spasticity ↗
Post-approval trials confirm THC:CBD spray (Sativex) effectively treats resistant MS spasticity without cognitive or mood side effects through 50 weeks.
SAVANT trial: Add-on Sativex significantly outperformed optimized standard treatment for MS spasticity ↗
SAVANT RCT found 77% of MS patients on add-on Sativex achieved meaningful spasticity improvement vs 32% on optimized standard treatment (p<0.0001).
Medical cannabis patients describe it as having fewer side effects than prescriptions but face stigma and dosing confusion ↗
Qualitative study of 25 medical cannabis cardholders found patients prefer cannabis over prescriptions but face stigma, cost, and lack of clinical dosing guidance.
A review of 72 reviews on medical cannabis found mixed results and mostly low-quality evidence ↗
A review of 72 systematic reviews on medical cannabis found mostly inconclusive results, frequent mild harms, and overwhelmingly low-quality evidence.
Medical cannabis states had lower opioid prescription rates in adults under 55 ↗
Medical cannabis states had 24-44% lower opioid prescription rates in adults under 55, but recreational cannabis and decriminalization laws showed no effect.
The endocannabinoid system controls fear and pain differently depending on which part of the prefrontal cortex is involved ↗
Endocannabinoid signaling in different prefrontal cortex subregions had opposing effects on pain suppression and fear behavior in rats.
Medical cannabis significantly reduced pain scores in fibromyalgia patients over six months ↗
In 367 fibromyalgia patients, medical cannabis reduced median pain from 9 to 5 over six months, with 81% responding and mostly mild side effects.
Cannabinoids for rheumatic diseases: anti-inflammatory potential but lacking rigorous evidence ↗
Cannabinoids have theoretical benefits for rheumatic diseases, but reviews are outpacing actual trials and evidence remains insufficient.
The claim that medical cannabis laws reduce opioid deaths reversed when extended through 2017 ↗
The widely-cited finding that medical cannabis laws reduce opioid deaths reversed from -21% to +23% when extended through 2017, likely indicating a spurious correlation.
Current and upcoming cannabis-based pharmaceuticals for pain ↗
Review of cannabis-based pharmaceuticals for pain, including nabiximols for MS and cancer pain and newer synthetic cannabinoids targeting neuropathic pain.
Single cannabis inhalation showed limited pain relief in fibromyalgia patients ↗
Rigorous crossover trial in 20 fibromyalgia patients found single cannabis inhalation had limited pain effects, with a surprising finding that CBD reduced THC's analgesic benefit.
Does marijuana legalization reduce opioid abuse? Evidence is mixed. ↗
Review of 10 studies found mostly positive associations between marijuana legalization and reduced opioid use, but the one individual-level study found increased adverse outcomes.
Adding medical cannabis to standard pain treatment improved outcomes in fibromyalgia patients ↗
In 31 fibromyalgia patients, adding medical cannabis to standard analgesics improved pain, function, and range of motion beyond what standard treatment alone achieved.
Despite hype, evidence does not support cannabis replacing opioids for pain ↗
Despite strong animal evidence, controlled human studies do not support cannabis replacing opioids for pain or producing significant opioid-sparing effects.
Cannabis for fibromyalgia: surveys look promising but rigorous trials are few ↗
Review of cannabis for fibromyalgia finds patient surveys suggest significant benefit, but randomized trial evidence remains limited and questioned.
Critical review finds cannabinoid evidence for fibromyalgia pain is promising but methodologically limited ↗
A critical review of five studies (827 participants) found cannabinoid treatments showed promise for fibromyalgia pain, but significant methodological limitations in the research prevent definitive conclusions about efficacy.
Italy's accidental CBD liberalization led to significant drops in prescriptions for anxiety, sleep, pain, and psychiatric medications ↗
When Italy accidentally liberalized CBD products in 2017, prescription sales of anxiolytics, sedatives, opioids, antidepressants, and antipsychotics dropped significantly in provinces where the products became available.
THC-rich cannabis oil significantly improved fibromyalgia symptoms in a small RCT ↗
A small RCT found THC-rich cannabis oil significantly improved fibromyalgia scores in 17 women over 8 weeks, with gains in pain, fatigue, ability to work, and overall well-being.
Endocannabinoid 2-AG in the brain's pain-processing region modulated fear-driven pain suppression via CB2 receptors ↗
In rats, increasing the endocannabinoid 2-AG in the anterior cingulate cortex reduced fear-driven pain suppression via CB2 (not CB1) receptors, revealing an unexpected role for brain CB2 receptors in pain modulation.
Major review maps the expanded endocannabinoid system and its therapeutic potential across neurological diseases ↗
A Nature Reviews Neurology article describes the expanded "endocannabinoidome" beyond CB1/CB2 and reviews its involvement in neurological diseases, noting approved therapies for MS and epilepsy and potential applications across neurodegeneration.
CBD reduced pain sensitivity in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease ↗
CBD reversed the increased pain sensitivity in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease, with effects mediated through CB1 receptors and potentially by increasing endogenous anandamide levels.
Daily cannabis users with sickle cell disease had fewer hospital admissions despite reporting worse pain ↗
Daily cannabis users with sickle cell disease reported worse pain but had nearly 2 fewer annual hospital admissions and similar opioid use compared to matched non-users, suggesting cannabis may help manage pain outside of hospitals.
CB1 receptor positive allosteric modulator unexpectedly antagonized opioid pain relief in morphine-withdrawn rats ↗
A CB1 receptor positive allosteric modulator unexpectedly antagonized opioid pain relief in the PAG of morphine-withdrawn rats, challenging assumptions about cannabinoid-opioid synergy.
Review maps CBD's diverse molecular targets including serotonin, TRPV1, and cannabinoid receptors ↗
A review found CBD acts on diverse molecular targets including serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, TRPV1 channels, and cannabinoid receptors, explaining its broad therapeutic profile across anxiety, pain, and epilepsy.
Daily THC reduced pain, shrank cysts, and restored memory in a mouse model of endometriosis ↗
Mouse study found daily low-dose THC reduced endometriosis pain, restored memory, and inhibited endometrial cyst growth, suggesting potential disease-modifying effects beyond symptom relief.
Expert review finds nabiximols effective for MS spasticity when first-line drugs fail ↗
Expert review of 33 studies and 7,500+ patients finds nabiximols safe and effective for MS spasticity when first-line drugs fail, but no scientific evidence supports smoked marijuana for MS.
Adding medical cannabis to fibromyalgia treatment improved sleep and reduced other pain medications ↗
Observational study of 102 fibromyalgia patients found adding medical cannabis improved sleep in 44%, overall symptoms in 33%, and allowed 47% to reduce other pain medications over 6 months.
MS patients in states with legal cannabis were 4.5 times more likely to use it for symptom relief ↗
Survey of 548 MS patients found cannabis use for symptoms was 4.5 times more likely in recreationally legal states, more common in men and those with severe disability.
Cannabinoids were more potent in older mice, and low doses had opposite effects in young versus old animals ↗
Mouse study found cannabinoids were more potent in aged mice than young adults, with stronger pain relief and movement suppression, suggesting elderly users may need lower doses.
CB2 receptor drug enhanced morphine pain relief while reducing morphine reward and physical dependence in mice ↗
Mouse study found the CB2 agonist LY2828360 synergized with morphine for neuropathic pain relief while blocking morphine reward and partially reducing physical dependence.
What does the evidence say about THC and CBD for treating multiple sclerosis? ↗
Critical review found moderate evidence for THC:CBD spray (Sativex) reducing MS spasticity and pain, but limited evidence for other MS symptoms.
Cannabis and vaping may affect sedation and pain management during surgery ↗
Review found cannabis users may need more sedation and pain medication during surgery, with THC vaping adding respiratory risks from potential lung injury.
What could CBD do for athletes? A review of the evidence ↗
Review found preclinical evidence for CBD benefits relevant to athletes (pain, inflammation, anxiety), but no studies have directly tested CBD in athletic populations.
THC:CBD spray consistently reduced MS spasticity regardless of disability level or duration ↗
SAVANT trial subgroup analysis showed nabiximols halved MS spasticity and pain scores consistently across all disability levels, with severe patients showing the most significant gains.
Medical cannabis may reduce opioid doses by 64-75% for chronic pain, but evidence is weak ↗
Systematic review of 9 studies (7,222 patients) found 64-75% opioid dose reduction with medical cannabis for chronic pain, but all studies had high bias risk.
Emotion dysregulation may explain why cannabis problems lead to worse mental health in chronic pain patients ↗
Study of 431 chronic pain patients found emotion dysregulation explained the link between cannabis use problems and anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
Cannabis use disorder was 68% more common in pediatric patients hospitalized for prescription opioid overdose ↗
Analysis of 27M pediatric hospitalizations found cannabis use disorder 68% more common in prescription opioid overdose cases, alongside high rates of mood disorders.
Daily cannabis use was associated with 26% faster cessation of opioid injection in people who inject drugs ↗
Thirteen-year study of people who inject drugs found daily cannabis use associated with 26% faster opioid injection cessation, with no increase in relapse risk.
Medical cannabis improved pain, quality of life, and reduced opioid use over 12 months in 751 patients ↗
Twelve-month study of 751 chronic pain patients found sustained improvements in pain, quality of life, and opioid dose reduction with medical cannabis.
40% of chronic pain patients fully stopped opioids after starting medical cannabis, with 87% reporting improved quality of life ↗
Survey of 525 chronic pain patients found 40% completely stopped opioids after starting medical cannabis, with 87% reporting improved quality of life.
Allosteric CB1 ligands reduced eye pain and inflammation in a mouse corneal injury model ↗
Novel allosteric CB1 receptor ligands reduced corneal pain and inflammation in mice, especially when combined with low-dose THC, suggesting a new approach for eye pain treatment.
Chemotherapy-treated mice had lower endocannabinoid levels in their paws, and restoring them relieved pain ↗
Mice with chemotherapy-induced nerve pain had depleted endocannabinoid levels in their paw tissue. Restoring 2-AG locally reversed pain sensitivity through both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
A precision cannabis inhaler allowed hospitalized patients to use far less cannabis while achieving pain relief ↗
A metered-dose cannabis inhaler reduced daily consumption by 95% (1,000 mg to 51 mg) while providing significant pain relief and high satisfaction in hospitalized patients.
A CB2 agonist relieved nerve pain in mice even without CB1 receptors, working through anti-inflammatory pathways ↗
The CB2 agonist AM1710 reversed neuropathic pain in mice with or without CB1 receptors by boosting anti-inflammatory IL-10 and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord.
About 39% of surveyed families used cannabis for children with a rare neurodegeneration causing severe dystonia ↗
A survey of families with children who have PKAN found 39% used cannabis products after other treatments failed, with most reporting improvements in dystonia, pain, and sleep.
Most chronic pain patients in Ohio were willing to try medical marijuana and wanted to reduce opioid use ↗
A survey of 242 chronic pain patients in Ohio found 84% willing to try medical marijuana, 68% wanting to reduce opioids, and 94% willing to follow their specialist's guidance on concurrent use.
Medical marijuana laws increased cannabis use in women but did not reduce opioid misuse overall ↗
Analysis of 2002-2014 survey data found medical marijuana laws increased cannabis use among women but did not reduce opioid misuse, with divergent effects for pregnant versus parenting women.
Targeting the endocannabinoid system showed promise for HIV-related nerve pain in preclinical studies and two clinical trials ↗
A systematic review found consistent preclinical evidence and two positive clinical trials supporting endocannabinoid system modulation for HIV-associated neuropathic pain.
Half of New Zealand IBD patients had used cannabis, with most reporting symptom improvement ↗
A New Zealand survey found 51% of IBD patients had used cannabis, with most medicinal users reporting improvements in pain, nausea, and appetite, and 54% would request it if legally available.
New Zealand women with endometriosis report using cannabis to manage pain and reduce other medications ↗
A New Zealand survey of 213 women with endometriosis found 81% reported cannabis made their pain "much better." Over three-quarters reduced their use of other medications, and 40% of stopped pain medications were opioids.
Young adult cannabis users fall into three distinct pain profiles that shape how and why they use cannabis ↗
Young adult cannabis users fall into three pain groups: low pain (56%), multiple pain conditions (27%), and nonspecific pain (16%). Those with more pain were more likely to use cannabis medically and consume edibles.
Medical cannabis for nerve pain has documented side effects but safety data remains incomplete for most products ↗
Only nabiximols is approved and safety-monitored for neuropathic pain. The many other cannabis products widely used for nerve pain lack adequate safety data, making it impossible to establish correct risk-benefit profiles.
Most people with fibromyalgia who use CBD report substituting it for pain medications including opioids ↗
Among 878 fibromyalgia patients using CBD, 72% reported substituting it for other medications. Over half substituted for opioids, and most said they reduced or stopped those medications entirely.
About a third of people with fibromyalgia currently use CBD, mostly for pain, and most report improvement ↗
A survey of 2,701 fibromyalgia patients found about a third currently use CBD, mainly for pain. Most reported improvement, but two-thirds who told their doctor did not ask for physician guidance on CBD use.
Cannabis shows promise for managing abdominal pain in inflammatory bowel disease but not the underlying inflammation ↗
A review found cannabis does not appear to treat the underlying inflammation in IBD but consistently reduces abdominal pain in both animal and human studies, offering potential symptom relief alongside standard therapy.
A practical guide for clinicians on cannabis use by IBD patients, including clinical vignettes ↗
A practical clinician guide finds cannabis may help some IBD symptoms but does not reduce inflammation. Clinicians should discuss dosing inconsistencies, dependence, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome with IBD patients who use cannabis.
BMJ guideline gives a weak recommendation to try non-inhaled medical cannabis for chronic pain ↗
A BMJ clinical guideline weakly recommends trying non-inhaled medical cannabis for chronic pain when standard treatments fail. The recommendation balances small improvements in pain, function, and sleep against mostly minor, temporary side effects.
Over a third of Argentine MS patients use cannabis, but most never discuss it with their neurologist ↗
A survey of 281 MS patients in Argentina found over a third use cannabis, but most never discussed it with their neurologist. Chronic pain and younger age were the strongest predictors of use.
Nearly a quarter of women with chronic pelvic pain use cannabis, and 96% of users report symptom improvement ↗
Among 113 women with chronic pelvic pain, 23% used cannabis as an adjunct therapy. Nearly all users (96%) reported symptom improvement, and over a third reduced their healthcare visits as a result.
People who inject drugs use cannabis for pain relief, emotional support, and as an opioid substitute ↗
Among 387 people who inject drugs, cannabis was commonly used for pain relief, emotional support, and as an opioid substitute. Using cannabis for pain was strongly linked to using it as an opioid replacement.
Cancer patients who seek medical cannabis use it differently than other patients ↗
Survey of 1,485 medical cannabis patients in Michigan found that the 72 with cancer used less cannabis, less often, and were less likely to smoke it than non-cancer patients.
Cannabis-using IBD patients received more opioids during hospitalization ↗
Retrospective study of 423 IBD patients found that preadmission cannabis use was associated with higher inpatient opioid doses, even after adjusting for disease severity and prior opioid use.
Nearly 1 in 4 osteoarthritis patients had tried CBD products, but they reported worse pain than non-users ↗
Survey of 200 osteoarthritis patients found 24% had tried CBD products, but CBD users reported significantly worse pain scores than non-users at their initial orthopedic evaluation.
Six children in palliative care saw fewer seizures and less pain with medical cannabis ↗
Case series of six children in Italian palliative care found medical cannabis reduced seizure frequency and pain over one year with only mild, transient side effects.
States with recreational cannabis laws saw a temporary 7.6% drop in opioid-related ER visits ↗
Analysis of ED data from 29 states found recreational cannabis laws reduced opioid-related emergency visits by 7.6% for two quarters, with effects concentrated in men aged 25-44, but the reduction faded after six months.
Medical cannabis may be cost-effective for MS spasticity and Dravet syndrome, but evidence is limited ↗
Systematic review of 12 economic evaluations found medicinal cannabis may be cost-effective for MS spasticity and Dravet syndrome, but results varied widely by product, indication, and setting.
First 129 UK medical cannabis patients showed improved quality of life at 1 and 3 months ↗
The first 129 patients in the UK Medical Cannabis Registry showed significant improvements in anxiety, sleep, pain, and quality of life at 1 and 3 months, with 24% reporting adverse events.
Young adults who preferred CBD products also used more illicit drugs, especially psilocybin ↗
Survey of 239 young LA cannabis users found CBD-dominant product users were more medically motivated and reported more pain, but also used more illicit drugs, especially psilocybin.
Most gynecologic cancer patients on medical marijuana reported symptom improvement, especially for nausea ↗
Chart review of 45 gynecologic cancer patients on medical marijuana found 71% reported symptom improvement, with nausea responding much better (>70%) than pain (36%).
Nearly 1 in 4 Canadian fibromyalgia patients had tried medical cannabis after legalization ↗
Survey of 1,000 Canadian rheumatology patients found 24% of fibromyalgia patients had tried medical cannabis, with 61% continuing use and reporting 7/10 symptom relief.
Cannabis oil improved pain, anxiety, and depression in 17 patients with burning mouth syndrome ↗
Pilot study of 17 burning mouth syndrome patients found cannabis oil improved pain, anxiety, and depression over 4 weeks, with benefits lasting through 24-week follow-up.
Cannabis use among women with pelvic pain jumped from 13% to 22% after Canadian legalization ↗
Among 3,426 women with pelvic pain, cannabis use jumped from 13% to 22% after Canadian legalization, with newer users being more educated and taking fewer daily opioids.
Cannabis use doubled the odds of opioid use on the same day, contradicting the substitution hypothesis ↗
Daily tracking of 211 adults found opioid use was twice as likely on days they also used cannabis, regardless of pain, contradicting the cannabis-as-opioid-substitute hypothesis.
Boosting both endocannabinoids simultaneously reduced migraine-like pain in rats ↗
Dual endocannabinoid enzyme inhibition reduced migraine-like pain and CGRP levels in rats through CB1 receptors, affecting both central and peripheral inflammatory markers.
Chronic morphine increased CB2 receptors on spinal neurons in rats ↗
Rat study found chronic morphine significantly increased CB2 cannabinoid receptor expression on spinal neurons, more than nerve injury alone, suggesting a mechanism for opioid-cannabinoid treatment synergy.
About 20% of rheumatology patients actively use cannabis, and meta-analysis shows pain improvement ↗
Meta-analysis of 10,873 rheumatology patients found 40% had used cannabis and 15% were current users, with significant pain reduction among users, especially in fibromyalgia.
Medical cannabis reduced pain and improved sleep across rheumatology conditions ↗
Survey of 319 rheumatology patients found self-reported pain reductions of 57-83% and sleep improvements of 71-87% with medical cannabis, with neuropathic pain patients reporting the greatest benefit.
Female mice developed tolerance to THC pain relief faster than males in chronic pain model ↗
Mouse study found females developed tolerance to THC pain relief faster than males in a chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain model, with effects mediated primarily through CB1 receptors.
Systematic review found medical cannabis shows promise for fibromyalgia pain but evidence gaps remain ↗
Systematic review of 22 studies found medical cannabis shows promise for fibromyalgia pain, with different THC/CBD ratios affecting different symptoms, though dosing and long-term data remain limited.
Nearly 90% of MS patients using cannabis for bladder symptoms reported improvement ↗
Survey of 775 MS patients found 37.5% used cannabis, with users reporting twice the odds of improvement in urinary frequency, urgency, leakage, and bladder emptying.
Systematic review found medical cannabis may benefit some fibromyalgia patients with mild side effects ↗
Systematic review of 10 studies found medical cannabis was safe and potentially beneficial for fibromyalgia, with only mild side effects and no serious adverse events.
Over half of medical cannabis users reported substituting it for prescription drugs ↗
Survey of 2,841 medical cannabis users found over half used cannabis to replace prescriptions, with 38% stopping and 46% reducing their prescription drug use, primarily pain medications.
Expert panel created consensus guidelines for managing cannabis users before and after surgery ↗
Expert panel of 17 developed consensus guidelines for managing cannabis users during surgery, emphasizing screening, potential weaning, extra nausea prevention, and higher pain medication needs.
Cannabis terpenes activated cannabinoid receptors and enhanced cannabinoid effects in mice ↗
Study found four cannabis terpenes activated CB1 receptors and produced cannabinoid-like effects in mice, with selective enhancement of cannabinoid activity providing first strong evidence for the entourage effect.
Medical cannabis authorization linked to reduced opioid use in high-dose patients ↗
A study of 5,373 matched patient pairs in Alberta found that medical cannabis authorization was associated with reduced opioid use, with the largest reductions seen in patients on the highest opioid doses.
Cannabinoid receptor GPR18 activation relieved bladder pain and overactivity in rats ↗
In a rat model of interstitial cystitis, activating the cannabinoid receptor GPR18 reduced pain and improved bladder function by inhibiting TRPV1 pain receptors in nerve tissue.
Medical cannabis patients reduced opioid use by 78% over six months ↗
A prospective study of 1,145 Canadian medical cannabis patients found opioid use dropped from 28% to 11% over six months, with a 78% reduction in daily dosage, alongside quality-of-life improvements.
Daily THC during adolescence did not permanently alter pain responses in adult mice ↗
Mice given daily THC throughout adolescence showed no lasting changes in pain sensitivity, morphine effectiveness, or morphine tolerance when tested as adults, suggesting pain circuits may be resilient to moderate adolescent THC exposure.
Medical cannabis improved pain in fibromyalgia patients who failed other treatments ↗
A case series of 38 fibromyalgia patients found medical cannabis significantly improved pain and disability, but nearly half stopped treatment due to side effects like mental confusion.
Does adding medical cannabis to opioids reduce opioid use for chronic pain? ↗
Meta-analysis of 17 studies finds uncertain evidence for cannabis reducing opioid use, with RCTs showing little effect on pain and increased nausea and vomiting.
Does medical marijuana improve quality of life for people using it for pain? ↗
Prospective study of 181 medical marijuana patients finds improved quality of life, pain, and anxiety over 6 weeks, but a decline in self-care measures.
THC Stimulated Dental Pulp Cells to Form Bone-Like Tissue in a Lab — a Surprising Finding for Tooth Repair ↗
THC promoted mineralization and bone-like tissue formation in human dental pulp cells through CB1/CB2 receptors — an unexpected finding with potential for dental regeneration research.
How effective is CBD-rich treatment for pain, anxiety, and depression in real patients? ↗
Real-world study of 279 patients finds CBD-rich treatment significantly improves pain, anxiety, and depression at 3 months, but only in those with moderate-to-severe symptoms.
How common is cannabis use among people with multiple sclerosis? ↗
Survey of 1,000 MS patients finds 30% currently use cannabis, with most using multiple routes and perceiving benefit, particularly among younger, lower-income, and more disabled patients.
Why are Florida patients using medical marijuana and is it working? ↗
Survey of 157 Florida medical marijuana patients finds anxiety and pain are top uses, with 65% reducing or stopping other medications.
Are low-dose cannabis oils safe and effective for MS symptoms? ↗
Prospective study of 28 MS patients finds low-dose cannabis oils (4 mg THC, 7 mg CBD) significantly reduce pain, spasticity, and sleep problems without impairing function.
One in Five People with MS Uses Cannabis for Symptom Relief ↗
Survey of 3,249 MS patients found 20% currently use cannabis for symptoms like spasticity (80%), pain (69%), and sleep (61%), while many non-users cited insufficient data on safety and efficacy.
Cannabis Helped Endometriosis Pain, Especially When Inhaled ↗
Study of 252 endometriosis patients tracking over 16,000 cannabis sessions found inhaled forms more effective for pain while oral forms worked better for mood and GI symptoms.
Massive Review Confirms Cannabinoids Reduce Pain in Animal Studies ↗
Meta-analysis of 374 animal studies confirmed that cannabinoid receptor agonists consistently reduce pain behaviors, though CBD showed mixed results for inflammatory pain and most studies used only male animals.
Evidence That Cannabis Laws Reduce Opioid Problems Is Still Inconclusive ↗
Review of 21 studies found largely inconclusive evidence on whether cannabis laws affect opioid prescribing, use, or mortality, identifying six major research challenges limiting current evidence.
The Most Rigorous Meta-Analysis of Cannabis for Chronic Pain Shows Real but Modest Benefits ↗
Most rigorous meta-analysis of cannabis for chronic pain: 32 trials, 5,174 patients. Real but modest benefit — NNT ~24 with manageable side effects.
Medical cannabis for chronic pain was linked to reduced pain, anxiety, and improved sleep over 3 months ↗
Prospective study of 46 adults using real-time smartphone assessments found medical cannabis reduced pain intensity, anxiety, depression, and improved sleep over 3 months.
Most older adults using cannabis started after age 60 and used it primarily for pain and sleep ↗
Survey of 568 adults 65+ found 15% used cannabis, with most starting after 60 for medical purposes (mainly pain), yet only 41% told their healthcare provider.
CB2 receptor activation reduced fentanyl-induced respiratory depression in mice ↗
Mouse study found a CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist protected against fentanyl-induced respiratory depression without affecting breathing on its own, confirmed through knockout mice.
Cannabis use was linked to 6 times higher odds of medication overuse headache in chronic migraine patients ↗
Study of 368 chronic migraine patients found cannabis users had 6.3 times higher odds of medication overuse headache, with 81% of cannabis users affected vs. 41% of non-users.
Pilot trial found medical cannabis feasible and potentially helpful for pain in stage IV cancer patients on opioids ↗
Pilot RCT of 30 stage IV cancer patients found medical cannabis via state program was feasible, well-tolerated, and showed trends toward reduced opioid use and better pain control.
Expert cancer group found insufficient evidence to recommend cannabinoids for nausea, appetite, or taste problems in cancer patients ↗
Systematic review of 36 RCTs found cannabinoids better than placebo but not superior to other antiemetics for chemo-induced nausea, leading MASCC to find insufficient evidence for recommending cannabinoids for GI symptoms in cancer.
Long-term observational studies of cannabis for chronic pain show modest benefits but very low evidence quality ↗
A meta-analysis of six long-term studies found cannabis produced modest pain reduction (1.75 points on a 0-10 scale) for chronic pain, but evidence quality was very low and nearly half of patients stopped treatment.
Major meta-analysis of 152 RCTs finds cannabinoid effectiveness varies dramatically by specific drug and condition ↗
A meta-analysis of 152 RCTs found CBD has high-grade evidence for epilepsy, while dronabinol and nabiximols show moderate evidence for pain, spasticity, and other conditions.
Survey of 1,087 chronic pain patients finds those using both inhaled and oral cannabis report the most benefit ↗
A survey of 1,087 chronic pain patients found those using both inhaled and oral cannabis reported greater health improvements and more medication substitutions than single-route users.
Survey of 878 fibromyalgia patients finds most use low-dose CBD with no clear dose-response relationship ↗
A survey of 878 fibromyalgia patients found typical CBD doses under 50 mg/day, with no relationship between dose and reported benefit, and most patients guided by personal research rather than doctors.
Review finds endocannabinoid system alterations in fibromyalgia and some promise for cannabinoid treatments ↗
A review finds fibromyalgia patients have altered endocannabinoid systems and that cannabinoid treatments show promise, but methodological gaps prevent clinical recommendations.
Systematic review reveals healthcare professionals feel underprepared to guide patients on medicinal cannabis for chronic pain ↗
A review of 26 studies found healthcare professionals see medicinal cannabis as a viable pain option but consistently feel underprepared to prescribe it, citing lack of education and clinical guidelines.
Pilot study of nanoparticle THC/CBD spray shows safety and early pain relief signals in advanced cancer patients ↗
A pilot study of nanoparticle THC/CBD spray in 25 advanced cancer patients showed acceptable bioavailability, general safety, and preliminary pain relief, especially for bone metastases.
IBD patients who use cannabis report more symptoms but do not have worse underlying disease ↗
Among 383 IBD patients, cannabis users reported more pain, gas, and joint symptoms but did not have worse underlying disease, suggesting non-luminal factors drive their symptom burden.
Can cannabis or THC help ease opioid withdrawal symptoms? ↗
A systematic review of 11 studies found inconsistent evidence that cannabis or THC alleviates opioid withdrawal, with a potentially narrow therapeutic window.
Could boosting natural endocannabinoids help treat migraine pain? ↗
Blocking the enzymes that break down natural endocannabinoids could offer a new approach to migraine pain without cannabis-related psychoactive effects.
What does the evidence say about cannabis in palliative care? ↗
Systematic review of 52 studies found some positive cannabis effects on palliative care symptoms, but all evidence was rated very low to low quality.
Could cannabis reduce opioid use in gynecology and obstetrics? ↗
Review found cannabis may reduce opioid use for gynecological pain but noted unclear risks during pregnancy due to lack of controlled trials.
Acidic cannabinoids, especially CBGA, blocked a key inflammatory pathway in immune cells ↗
Minor acidic cannabinoids, especially CBGA, potently blocked a key calcium-driven inflammatory pathway in immune cells, while CBD and THC did not.
Broad-spectrum cannabis oil reversed fibromyalgia-like symptoms in mice ↗
Low-THC broad-spectrum cannabis oil reversed pain, thermal sensitivity, and depression in a mouse fibromyalgia model at doses as low as 0.1 mg/kg.
Cochrane review: nabiximols probably reduces MS spasticity, but pain evidence is uncertain ↗
Cochrane review of 25 trials found nabiximols probably reduces MS spasticity (moderate certainty) but uncertain evidence for chronic pain, with modestly increased side effects.
Arthritis patients reported less pain and reduced medication use with CBD ↗
Survey of 428 arthritis patients found CBD was associated with 44% average pain reduction, and 60% reduced or stopped other medications including opioids.
Cannabinoids showed limited benefit for chronic primary pain in short-term studies ↗
Meta-analysis of 8 small trials found cannabinoids showed limited short-term pain benefit, but treatment beyond 4 weeks significantly reduced chronic primary pain.
Getting a medical cannabis license did not reduce opioid prescription use in Rhode Island ↗
Population-based study found obtaining a medical cannabis license in Rhode Island was not associated with any change in opioid prescription filling patterns.
Three months of medical cannabis did not change metabolic markers in chronic pain patients ↗
In 28 chronic pain patients, three months of medical cannabis produced no significant changes in blood sugar, cholesterol, insulin, cortisol, or body weight.
Cannabis-based treatments show the strongest evidence for MS pain and spasticity ↗
Cannabis-based treatments, especially nabiximols spray and oral cannabinoids, consistently helped with MS pain and spasticity but showed only slight improvement for other MS symptoms.
Male and female mice develop tolerance to THC through different molecular mechanisms ↗
Blocking CB1 receptor desensitization delayed THC tolerance in male mice but not females, revealing sex-specific mechanisms. Females were also less sensitive to cannabinoid pain relief.
Cannabinoids in rheumatology: potential pain benefits weighed against drug interactions and side effects ↗
Cannabinoids show some pain benefits for rheumatic conditions but carry drug interaction risks with common rheumatology medications, leading the review to conclude they are more foe than friend.
CBD enhanced morphine pain relief and partially prevented morphine tolerance in rats ↗
In rats with nerve injury pain, CBD enhanced morphine's effectiveness at sub-therapeutic doses and partially prevented morphine tolerance development.
Cannabis use did not reduce mortality in veterans on opioids, and increased risk in older adults ↗
Among 297,620 veterans on opioids, cannabis use did not reduce mortality. In adults 65+ on long-term opioids, cannabis was associated with 55% higher 90-day mortality.
Despite decades of use, the best cannabis approach for chronic pain remains unknown ↗
Most evidence supports cannabis for pain, but no head-to-head comparison exists between preparations. The entourage effect lacks systematic support for pain.
CBD shows potential as an add-on treatment for managing opioid withdrawal symptoms ↗
CBD has multiple properties relevant to opioid withdrawal management and is safe with opioids, but large clinical trials are needed before it can be recommended as an adjunct treatment.
First meta-analysis finds altered endocannabinoid levels in fibromyalgia patients ↗
First meta-analysis finds fibromyalgia patients have altered levels of endocannabinoid-like molecules, supporting endocannabinoid system involvement in chronic widespread pain.
Capsaicin Cream for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in the ER ↗
The largest retrospective study of capsaicin cream for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome found modest pain relief and that 42% of patients needed no additional treatment afterward.
Systematic Review: Cannabis for Gynecologic Pain Shows Promise but Lacks Standardization ↗
Systematic review found 61-95.5% of women reported pain relief from cannabis for gynecologic conditions, and PEA-combination studies showed a 3.35-point pain reduction, but inconsistent formulations limit conclusions.
CB2 Receptors in Skin Cells Suppressed Chemo-Induced Nerve Pain in Mice ↗
Mouse study identified CB2 cannabinoid receptors in skin immune cells as the mechanism for suppressing chemotherapy-induced nerve pain, working through a peripheral pathway that avoids psychoactive effects.
How TRPV1 Channels Explain Both Cannabis Pain Relief and Hyperemesis Syndrome ↗
Review identified the TRPV1 ion channel as the common mechanism behind both cannabis pain relief and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, explaining why capsaicin and hot showers treat CHS.
Nabiximols Did Not Reduce Spasticity After Stroke but Appeared Safe for Heart Patients ↗
Double-blind RCT found nabiximols did not reduce spasticity after stroke compared to placebo, but demonstrated cardiovascular safety in this high-risk population, encouraging further research.
Cannabis Terpene Myrcene Reduced Arthritis Pain and Inflammation in Rats ↗
Cannabis terpene myrcene reduced chronic arthritis pain and inflammation in rats through cannabinoid receptors, but did not synergize with CBD, challenging "entourage effect" assumptions.
How People in Opioid Recovery Use Cannabis: Insights from Reddit Forums ↗
Analysis of Reddit forums found people in opioid recovery use cannabis primarily for withdrawal management, while active opioid users use it to enhance the high, revealing two distinct patterns.
CBD for Endometriosis: Preclinical Promise but Not Enough Evidence to Recommend ↗
Systematic review found mostly lab-based evidence for cannabis in endometriosis with conflicting results. Few human studies exist, and UK guidance currently cannot recommend cannabis for this condition.
Treating Cannabis Dependence Improved Depression, Sleep, and Pain Even Without Full Abstinence ↗
In a cannabis dependence trial, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and pain all improved over 12 weeks regardless of medication type, and even without complete abstinence from cannabis.
Cannabis Did Not Reduce Opioid Use or Real-Time Pain in Chronic Pain Patients ↗
Real-time monitoring of 46 chronic pain patients found no pain reduction or opioid-sparing effect from cannabis co-use, though retrospective reports suggested greater perceived relief, highlighting recall bias.
CBD May Reduce Early Nerve Damage Symptoms from Chemotherapy ↗
Cancer patients taking 300 mg/day CBD showed reduced early peripheral neuropathy symptoms during chemotherapy, with particular benefit seen in vibrometry scores and cold sensitivity.
17% of Danish Cancer Patients Reported Peripheral Neuropathy, Higher in Cannabis Users ↗
Survey of 2,839 Danish cancer patients found 17% had significant neuropathy. Cannabis users were nearly twice as likely to report high symptom burden, though directionality is unclear.
Cannabinoids Showed Opioid-Sparing Potential in Animal Studies but Not in Human Trials ↗
Meta-analysis found cannabinoids reduced effective morphine dose 3.5x in animals but human RCTs showed no opioid-sparing effect. Observational studies were more positive, highlighting a research-design gap.
Cannabis for Rheumatic Disease Pain: Growing Interest, Limited Clinical Evidence ↗
Review found growing interest in cannabis for rheumatic disease pain but noted the literature skews toward reviews over original research, with very few randomized trials completed.
Long-Term Cannabis Oil Therapy Was Linked to Fewer Patients Using Opioids for Chronic Pain ↗
Italian pain clinic data showed opioid non-users rose from 32% to 55% after long-term cannabis oil therapy. No changes seen in other pain medication classes.
CBD-Melatonin Compound Improved Sleep, Anxiety, and Pain in Small Pilot Study ↗
Small pilot study of 20 patients found a CBD-melatonin sublingual compound improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety, and decreased pain over 3 months, but lacked a control group.
Cannabis Patients with Advanced Bile Duct Cancer Survived Nearly 7x Longer Than Standard Care Alone ↗
Advanced bile duct cancer patients in Thailand receiving medical cannabis survived 5.7 months vs. 0.8 months with standard care — dramatic but needs randomized trial confirmation.
Older Cannabis Users in Hawaii Had Higher Rates of Heart Disease, Stroke, and Pain ↗
Matched cohort in Hawaii found older cannabis users (50+) had higher rates of heart disease, stroke, chronic pain, MI, and used more healthcare services over two years compared to non-using controls.
79% of Florida Medical Cannabis Patients Reported Reducing or Stopping Pain Medications ↗
Survey of 2,183 Florida medical cannabis patients found 79% reported reducing or stopping pain medications after starting cannabis, with improvements in pain and physical functioning.
Umbrella Review: Cannabinoids Have Moderate Evidence Only for Chemo Nausea and Ulcerative Colitis QoL ↗
Umbrella review of 68 systematic reviews found no high-certainty evidence for cannabinoids in any condition. Moderate evidence supported chemotherapy nausea benefit; no benefit found for chronic non-cancer pain.
First Survey of CBG Users: Most Reported It Worked Better Than Conventional Medications ↗
First CBG patient survey found users reported it effective for anxiety (51%), pain (41%), and depression (33%), with 74-80% rating it superior to conventional medications and 44% reporting no side effects.
UK Medical Cannabis Registry Shows Improved Health in First 678 Patients ↗
UK's first medical cannabis registry enrolled 678 patients (mostly chronic pain and anxiety). Preliminary 3-month data showed significant self-reported health improvement with moderate-to-large effect size.
Nearly Two-Thirds of Canadian MS Patients Have Tried Medical Cannabis ↗
Survey of 344 Canadian MS patients found 65% had tried medical cannabis, primarily for sleep (84%), pain (80%), and spasticity (68%). 74% learned about it outside the healthcare system.
Most endometriosis patients using cannabis obtained it illicitly despite legal access ↗
Survey of 237 endometriosis patients found 72-88% used illicit cannabis despite legal access, with over 60% reporting more than 50% reduction in pain medication use.
Australian women with period pain want medicinal cannabis but face major access barriers ↗
Focus groups with 26 Australian women found interest in medicinal cannabis for period pain was high, but cost, stigma, drug driving laws, and prescriber bias blocked access.
CBD did not reduce pain in hand osteoarthritis or psoriatic arthritis compared to placebo ↗
Rigorous RCT of 136 arthritis patients found synthetic CBD 20-30 mg daily showed no pain benefit over placebo after 12 weeks.
Large Australian registry showed medicinal cannabis was safe and effective for at least two years ↗
Australian registry of 3,961 patients found medicinal cannabis was safe and showed sustained improvements in pain, mental health, and insomnia over 2+ years.
Scoping review found cancer patients use medical cannabis mainly for nausea, pain, and appetite ↗
Scoping review of 163 studies found cancer patients use medical cannabis mainly for nausea, pain, and appetite, with oils as the most common form.
Cannabis substitution for opioids was common but not affected by legalization status ↗
Survey of 44,119 cannabis consumers found 79-84% of pain users substituted cannabis for opioids, but legalization status made no significant difference.
Adverse Events Are Common With Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain, but Serious Harms Are Rare ↗
Review of 39 studies (12,143 patients) found about 26% of medical cannabis users for chronic pain experience adverse events, but serious harms occur in fewer than 5% of patients.
Traumatic Brain Injury Disrupts the Brain's Endocannabinoid System, Worsening Damage ↗
Mouse study found traumatic brain injury depleted endocannabinoids by increasing their metabolizing enzymes, contributing to brain barrier damage, reduced blood flow, and anxiety.
87% of Parkinson's Patients Reported Symptom Improvement With Medical Cannabis ↗
Chart review of 69 Parkinson's patients found 87% reported symptom improvement with medical cannabis, with 56% of opioid users reducing or stopping opioid medications.
Recreational Cannabis Laws Initially Reduced Opioid Misuse, but the Effect Faded After 2-3 Years ↗
National survey analysis found recreational cannabis laws initially reduced opioid misuse, but the effect faded within 2-3 years when using methods accounting for staggered adoption.
26% of Cancer Patients Used Cannabis, Reporting Benefits for Sleep, Nausea, and Pain Despite Feeling Worse Overall ↗
Survey of 267 cancer patients found 26% used cannabis, reporting benefits for sleep, nausea, and pain but worse overall symptoms compared to non-users.
States that legalized medical marijuana saw reduced opioid use among cancer patients ↗
JAMA Oncology study of 58,000+ cancer patients found medical marijuana legalization was associated with reduced opioid dispensing and fewer pain-related hospital visits.
Cannabis extracts produced different pain relief than pure THC-CBD blends at the same ratio ↗
Animal study found a whole cannabis extract and a pure 1:1 THC:CBD mix produced different pain-relief patterns and engaged different brain receptors, despite matching THC:CBD ratios.
Standard diagnostic criteria both overestimate and underestimate cannabis use disorder in chronic pain patients ↗
Study found standard DSM-5 criteria flagged 30% of medical cannabis patients for cannabis use disorder, but adjusted scoring accounting for therapeutic use dropped the rate to 2%.
Colorado county-level cannabis access showed mixed effects on opioid prescribing ↗
Colorado county-level analysis found recreational cannabis access reduced opioid prescription fills and inpatient visits but not total opioid consumption or ED visits.
One-third of fibromyalgia patients used medical cannabis despite limited evidence-based guidance ↗
Survey of 63 fibromyalgia patients found 35% using medical cannabis, alongside widespread use of opioids and NSAIDs that contradict clinical guidelines.
CBG Reduced Inflammation in Rheumatoid Arthritis Cells Through a Pain-Sensing Channel ↗
CBG reduced key inflammatory markers in rheumatoid arthritis cells through the TRPA1 pain-sensing channel, with selectivity for inflamed over healthy tissue.
What New Medical Cannabis Patients Say After One Month: Most Report It Helps Their Chronic Pain ↗
After one month, 63% of new medical cannabis patients reported effective pain relief, plus reduced medication use, less anxiety, and better sleep — though finding the right product was a common struggle.
Medical Cannabis Did Not Significantly Improve Pain, Nausea, or Sleep Scores in Elderly Cancer Patients ↗
A chart review of elderly cancer patients found no significant improvement in pain, nausea, appetite, insomnia, or anxiety scores after starting medical cannabis.
Scoping Review Finds Preclinical Promise but Limited Clinical Evidence for Cannabis in Rheumatoid Arthritis ↗
Scoping review found preclinical support for cannabinoids in rheumatoid diseases but scarce and mixed clinical evidence.
CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors Are Concentrated in Pain-Processing Spinal Cord Regions in Both Rats and Humans ↗
CB1 cannabinoid receptors are concentrated in spinal cord pain-processing regions in both rats and humans, consistent across sex.
Medical Cannabis Improved Pain and Spasticity in Most MS Patients and Reduced Opioid Use ↗
A retrospective review of 141 MS patients found 72% reported pain relief with medical cannabis, and opioid use dropped significantly.
High-CBD Cannabis Vapor Reduced Opioid Reward and Self-Administration in Female Rats Without Causing Harm ↗
In female rats, high-CBD cannabis vapor reduced opioid reward and fentanyl self-administration with no abuse potential and a robust safety profile.
CBD Injected Into the Amygdala Reversed Empathy-Related Pain Sensitivity in Mice Through Serotonin Receptors ↗
CBD injected into the amygdala reversed pain sensitivity caused by living with a partner in chronic pain, working through serotonin 5-HT3 receptors.
A Review of Cannabinoids for Spine Surgery Pain Found Potential Promise but Very Few Studies and Major Knowledge Gaps ↗
Review of cannabinoids for spine surgery pain found mechanistic promise through endocannabinoid receptors but very few clinical studies with variable results.
Cannabis for Gynecological Pain: Growing Patient Use, Limited Clinical Evidence ↗
Women increasingly use cannabis for endometriosis, pelvic pain, and period cramps, with retrospective data suggesting benefit — but clinical trials are nearly nonexistent and barriers to medical access persist.
What the evidence says about cannabis for multiple sclerosis symptoms ↗
Review of cannabinoids for multiple sclerosis finds preclinical promise and some clinical support for spasticity relief, but limited trial data overall.
Fibromyalgia patients who slept better and felt less anxious on medical cannabis also reported less pain ↗
12-month study of 323 fibromyalgia patients found medical cannabis reduced pain partly through improvements in sleep and anxiety/depression symptoms.
Systematic review finds limited but promising evidence for cannabis in fibromyalgia ↗
Systematic review of 9 studies (564 patients) found low-quality evidence supporting short-term pain reduction with cannabis in fibromyalgia.
Medical cannabis patients filled slightly fewer opioid prescriptions over 6 months ↗
Retrospective study of 68 chronic pain patients found a small reduction in opioid prescriptions after starting medical cannabis, with no changes in other healthcare use.
Open-label trial compared cannabis, oxycodone, and their combination for fibromyalgia pain ↗
Proof-of-concept RCT compared cannabis alone, oxycodone alone, and cannabis+oxycodone for fibromyalgia pain to test opioid-sparing potential.
UK medical cannabis registry showed improvements in fibromyalgia patients' quality of life ↗
UK Medical Cannabis Registry analysis found fibromyalgia patients improved on quality-of-life measures after at least one month of cannabis-based treatment.
Review examines the evidence for medical cannabis in hand surgery pain management ↗
Review finds growing interest in medical cannabis for hand surgery pain but limited specific evidence, with opioid-sparing potential as the main driver.
Randomized trial tested THC, CBD, and their combination for peripheral neuropathic pain ↗
Four-arm randomized trial compared CBD, THC, CBD/THC combination, and placebo capsules for peripheral neuropathic pain.
CBD reduced pain in rats with sex-dependent dose differences across the estrous cycle ↗
Rat study found CBD reduced pain effectively in both sexes, but females in late diestrus responded to doses 10-fold lower than males, suggesting hormonal influence on CBD efficacy.
Black cancer patients more likely to view cannabis as more effective than opioids for pain ↗
Survey of 1,220 cancer patients found Black patients less likely to use opioids and 2.5x more likely to view cannabis as more effective, though socioeconomic factors partly explained the difference.
Cannabis co-use with opioids linked to worse mental health but not worse pain in Black adults ↗
Study of 401 Black adults found cannabis-opioid co-use linked to worse mental health and opioid dependence but not worse pain, challenging assumptions about cannabis as an opioid complement.
Cannabis extract relieved neuropathic pain in rats comparably to gabapentin ↗
Two cannabis extracts matched gabapentin for neuropathic pain relief in rats, with complex effects on brain cannabinoid receptors that varied by region and dose.
Clinical guidelines for using cannabis in chronic pain management ↗
Evidence-based guidelines found moderate support for cannabinoids in chronic pain, with benefits for sleep, anxiety, and conditions like MS and fibromyalgia. Emphasize patient education and collaborative dosing.
A Genetic Variant in the Endocannabinoid System May Protect Against Priapism in Sickle Cell Disease ↗
A CB2 cannabinoid receptor genetic variant was associated with 61% lower odds of priapism in sickle cell anemia patients — connecting the endocannabinoid system to blood vessel complications.
63% of medical cannabis users with rheumatic conditions substituted it for other medications ↗
Survey of 763 rheumatic disease patients found 63% substituted medical cannabis for other medications, most commonly NSAIDs and opioids, reporting fewer side effects.
CBD and THC relieve pain through different receptor systems in worm models ↗
In C. elegans worm models, CBD and THC both reduced pain responses but through entirely different receptor systems, with CBD effects wearing off within 6 hours while THC effects persisted.
Cannabis-positive spine surgery patients used more opioids postoperatively ↗
Among 353 spine surgery patients, those who tested THC-positive preoperatively consumed more opioids over 90 days than THC-negative patients, with the highest consumption in multi-drug users.
A Comprehensive Guide to How Cannabinoids Interact with Drugs for Epilepsy, Cancer, Pain, and More ↗
Comprehensive review maps cannabinoid drug interactions across epilepsy, cancer, MS, and pain — CYP450 inhibition by CBD and THC can significantly alter blood levels of co-administered medications.
Trauma patients who tested positive for THC used more than twice the opioids during hospitalization ↗
Trauma patients with pre-hospital THC exposure used 2.5 times more opioids during hospitalization than THC-negative patients, though they also had higher injury severity and more co-occurring substance use.
Cannabinoids protected nerve cells from chemotherapy damage in lab tests ↗
Lab study found cannabinoids preserved 70-89% of neuron viability (vs. 40% with chemo alone) and limited axon shortening to 23-44% (vs. 63%), suggesting potential for preventing chemotherapy-induced nerve damage.
How Chronic Pain Rewires the Brain's Reward System — And Why That Makes Cannabis and Opioid Misuse More Likely ↗
Chronic pain and addiction share a common neurobiological root — reduced dopamine signaling — explaining why pain patients who self-medicate with opioids or cannabis are vulnerable to escalating into misuse.
1 in 5 Older Adults Have Used Marijuana — and Current Users Show More Depression and Anxiety ↗
Population study of 910 adults 65+ found 20% had used marijuana and 5% used recently — current users showed more depression, anxiety, and functional impairment.
Cannabis use disorder was linked to more complications after spine fusion surgery but also less opioid dependence ↗
Analysis of 177,636 spine fusion patients found cannabis use disorder was linked to higher neurological, wound, and cardiac complications but also decreased opioid dependence after surgery.
Low-dose medical cannabis as a tea reduced fibromyalgia pain from 8 to 4 on a 10-point scale over 6 months ↗
Pilot study of 30 fibromyalgia patients found low-dose cannabis tea (100 mg/day Bedrocan) reduced pain from 8/10 to 4/10 over 6 months with improvements in physical and mental health quality of life.
Chronic pain patients on buprenorphine who struggle with physical discomfort used more cannabis and alcohol ↗
Among 163 chronic pain patients on buprenorphine for opioid use disorder, those with lower tolerance for physical discomfort used cannabis and alcohol more frequently.
How THC and CBD capsules move through the body in multiple sclerosis patients with pain ↗
A pharmacokinetic substudy of 23 MS patients found oral THC and CBD capsules showed wide individual variation in blood levels, with profiles similar to healthy volunteers.
Prescribed medical cannabis for chronic pain linked to doubled arrhythmia risk in Danish nationwide study ↗
A Danish nationwide study found prescribed medical cannabis for chronic pain was associated with doubled risk of new-onset arrhythmia within 180 days, though no link to heart attacks was found.
Older veterans using medical cannabis reported improved pain and sleep, with some reducing opioid use ↗
A longitudinal survey of older US veterans in a medical cannabis program found improved pain and sleep outcomes, with 44% of opioid co-users stopping opioids at follow-up.
Nearly 1 in 4 Opioid Addiction Patients Use CBD — Mostly for Anxiety, Pain, and Sleep ↗
Survey of 550 opioid addiction patients found 23% use CBD — primarily for anxiety, pain, and sleep, with 42% using it specifically for withdrawal relief.
Where Things Stand With Synthetic Cannabinoid Pain Medications ↗
A review found that FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoids dronabinol and nabilone show some analgesic promise but lack strong clinical evidence for pain treatment.
Boosting a Natural Brain Cannabinoid Blocked Opioid Reward Without Reducing Pain Relief ↗
Boosting the endocannabinoid 2-AG in mice blocked opioid reward without reducing pain relief, suggesting a potential strategy to make opioid treatment less addictive.
Medical cannabis products show real benefits for chronic pain and spasticity with manageable side effects ↗
Narrative review finds strongest evidence for THC-based medical cannabis in chronic neuropathic pain and balanced THC/CBD products for MS spasticity, with manageable side effects and low dependence risk.
Comprehensive evidence map finds medical cannabis most effective for pain, spasticity, and seizures ↗
Evidence map of 194 studies found medical cannabis showed positive effects in 57% of treatment descriptions across 71 health outcomes, with strongest support for pain, seizures, and spasticity.
Cannabis users needed nearly twice as many opioids after spinal fusion surgery ↗
Opioid-naive cannabis users needed nearly twice the morphine equivalent doses after spinal fusion surgery compared to non-users, despite having fewer overall health problems.
A cannabis extract reduced inflammatory pain in rats without the behavioral disruption caused by THC alone ↗
A non-euphoric cannabis extract reduced inflammatory pain in rats without the behavioral impairment caused by THC or synthetic cannabinoids, supporting the entourage effect.
UK medical cannabis patients with MS reported improved quality of life across multiple domains over six months ↗
UK registry data from 141 MS patients found prescribed cannabis products improved quality of life across cognitive, physical, emotional, and social domains over six months.
Cannabis Legalization Showed No Clear Effect on Opioid Prescriptions or Overdose Deaths ↗
Rigorous 15-year analysis found cannabis legalization had no significant effect on opioid prescriptions or deaths overall.
Could Cannabinoids Help Recovery After Open-Heart Surgery? ↗
Review of preclinical evidence suggests cannabinoids, especially CBD, could help manage pain, inflammation, and tissue damage after open-heart surgery.
Arthritis Patients Who Used Cannabinoids Reported Less Pain, Stiffness, and Fatigue ↗
Survey of 290 arthritis patients found about 15% used cannabinoids, reporting significant pain reduction with minimal side effects, though placebo effects cannot be ruled out.
Medical Cannabis May Work Less Well for People With Nociplastic Pain ↗
Study of 1,213 medical cannabis patients found those with higher nociplastic pain scores reported less pain relief and more side effects from cannabis, despite substituting it for more other medications.
Nearly Half of Fibromyalgia Patients at Mayo Clinic Had Used Cannabis for Symptoms ↗
Mayo Clinic survey of 1,336 fibromyalgia patients found nearly half used cannabis, primarily for pain (82% reported improvement), fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia.
Non-Intoxicating Cannabinoids Show Promise for Gut Pain in Preclinical Research ↗
Review of preclinical evidence finds multiple non-intoxicating cannabinoids beyond CBD can reduce gut pain and inflammation through TRP and ion channels, not just classical cannabinoid receptors.
Adding Cannabis to Oxycodone for Fibromyalgia Offered No Advantage and Was Poorly Tolerated ↗
Fibromyalgia RCT found cannabis combined with oxycodone reduced opioid intake by 35% but offered no advantage in pain or side effects, with one-third of cannabis users dropping out.
Hemp Extract Reduced Chemotherapy-Induced Nerve Pain in Rats Through Multiple Biological Pathways ↗
Hemp extract reduced chemotherapy-induced nerve pain in rats through multiple pathways including inflammation, neural signaling, lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota, revealed by multi-omics analysis.
Endocannabinoid-Boosting Drug Shows Neuroprotective Promise in HIV Brain Disease Model ↗
MAGL inhibitor ABX1431 reversed HIV protein-induced neuron overexcitement by boosting natural endocannabinoid 2-AG levels, showing neuroprotective potential for HIV-associated brain disease.
Adding Medical Cannabis to Opioids Reduced Pain in Hospice Patients With Few Side Effects ↗
Adding CBD-dominant cannabis to scheduled opioids in 66 hospice patients produced statistically significant pain reduction (p = .003) with only 4.5% experiencing minor side effects.
CBD for Tooth Extraction Pain: A Tiny Pilot Trial Shows It's Feasible to Study ↗
Pilot trial of oral CBD after tooth extraction (n=8) established that the trial protocol is feasible — setting up a larger study to determine whether CBD actually works for dental pain.
THC reduced pain and enhanced a specific pain inhibition pathway in fibromyalgia patients ↗
Small crossover RCT found sublingual THC reduced fibromyalgia pain and selectively enhanced offset analgesia but not conditioned pain modulation.
Cannabis terpene myrcene reduced neuropathic pain in mice through CB1-dependent mechanism ↗
Mouse study found cannabis terpene myrcene reduced neuropathic pain through CB1-dependent mechanism, with greater potency in females, despite not directly activating CB1 receptors.
Cannabis use shifted from recreational to medical purposes after spinal cord injury ↗
Survey of 80 Canadians with spinal cord injury found 42.5% used cannabis post-injury, shifting from recreational to pain and sleep motivations with edibles as preferred method.
Systematic review found cannabis-based medicines reduced neuropathic pain in most but not all RCTs ↗
Systematic review of 22 RCTs found cannabis-based medicines reduced neuropathic pain in 68% of trials, with better outcomes using personalized dosing strategies.
CBD and beta-caryophyllene together produced synergistic pain relief and antidepressant effects in mice ↗
Mouse study found combining CBD and beta-caryophyllene produced synergistic pain relief with antidepressant effects through reduced neuroinflammation.
10 'Minor' Cannabinoids Tested for Pain Relief: THCP and CBC Were the Most Potent ↗
Systematic testing of 10 minor cannabinoids on pain neurons found THCP and CBC most potent at reducing pain signaling — expanding the analgesic toolkit beyond THC and CBD.
High-CBD Extract Reduced Arthritis Severity in Two Mouse Models and Suppressed Human Immune Cell Inflammation ↗
High-CBD extract reduced inflammatory cytokines from human immune cells and lessened arthritis severity in two mouse models of RA — the most complete preclinical package yet for cannabinoids in rheumatoid arthritis.
Male Fibromyalgia Patients Were More Likely to Use Medical Cannabis ↗
Study of 3,044 fibromyalgia patients found 48% of males used medical cannabis vs 35% of females, alongside gender differences in PTSD, diagnosis age, and obesity.
Fibromyalgia Patients Said Nurses Could Fill Gaps in Medical Cannabis Knowledge ↗
Qualitative study found two-thirds of fibromyalgia patients were never offered medical cannabis despite years of ineffective treatment, and nursing education helped fill this gap.
Young Adults Feared Opioids After Surgery and Turned to Cannabis Instead ↗
Qualitative study found young adults often underused prescribed opioids due to addiction fears and intentionally turned to cannabis for post-surgical pain and anxiety management.
Low-Dose CBD Enhanced Opioid Pain Relief Without Adding Side Effects ↗
Double-blind RCT found 50 mg CBD enhanced opioid pain relief and reduced psychomotor impairment without additional side effects, suggesting opioid-sparing potential.
Cannabis Coaching Program Helped Veterans Reduce Pain With Personalized Guidance ↗
A pilot coaching program helped 22 veterans optimize cannabis use for chronic pain, with pain intensity dropping from 7.1 to 5.7 and 63% reporting much or very much improvement.
Adding CBD to Low-Dose Buprenorphine Boosted Pain Relief and Reduced Breathing Suppression in Rats ↗
Rat study found combining CBD with sub-therapeutic buprenorphine produced significant pain relief while CBD also reduced buprenorphine-induced respiratory depression, suggesting a safer analgesic approach.
Cannabis Affected Sleep Architecture Differently in People With and Without Chronic Pain ↗
In-home EEG study of 339 nights found cannabis use altered multiple sleep stages, but effects on deep sleep and REM differed significantly depending on whether the person had chronic pain.
THC Alone (Not CBD) Reduced Some Opioid Withdrawal Signs in Monkeys ↗
In morphine-dependent monkeys, THC modestly reduced some withdrawal signs but was not more effective than existing medication lofexidine, while CBD had no effect alone or combined with THC.
What people expect from cannabis influences how much it reduces their anxiety and pain ↗
Cannabis users with more positive health expectancies experienced greater acute reductions in tension and pain, suggesting beliefs about cannabis shape therapeutic outcomes alongside pharmacology.
Cannabis trial for endometriosis pain failed because participants could not stop driving ↗
An endometriosis cannabis trial aimed for 63 participants but enrolled only 12 and retained 4, primarily because the requirement to abstain from driving was unacceptable.
Cannabis products with THC showed small pain improvements with significant side effects, while CBD alone did not help ↗
Living meta-analysis of 29 RCTs found THC-containing cannabis produced small pain reductions with large side effect increases, while CBD alone showed no benefit.
Parents of children with sickle cell disease had similar concerns about medical marijuana as they did about opioids ↗
Parents of children with sickle cell disease expressed concerns about medical marijuana similar to their concerns about opioids, with societal stigma as a major barrier to treatment acceptance.
THC and CBD can inhibit hydromorphone metabolism, potentially increasing opioid levels by 20-30% ↗
Lab and modeling study found THC and CBD inhibit the enzyme that metabolizes hydromorphone, predicting a 20-30% increase in opioid exposure when cannabis and hydromorphone are used together.
Childhood Trauma Linked to Cannabis Use and Greater Pain in People on Methadone ↗
Cross-sectional study of 82 methadone patients found childhood trauma correlated with greater pain, more alcohol use, and earlier cannabis initiation.
Stress Hormone Activates the Endocannabinoid System to Suppress Pain Signals in the Brain ↗
Rodent brain study reveals stress hormone corticosterone triggers endocannabinoid (2-AG) production in a pain-control region, reducing inhibitory GABA signaling through CB1 receptors.
A Pilot Study Found Dronabinol for Sickle Cell Pain Is Feasible and Safe ↗
Pilot trial with 6 sickle cell patients showed dronabinol for pain is feasible and safe. A larger parallel trial is underway.
CBD Combined With Low-Dose THC Was Most Effective Against Migraine-Like Symptoms in Rats ↗
In rat migraine models, CBD combined with 0.3% THC provided the longest pain relief and was the only treatment reducing light sensitivity.
Medical Cannabis Patients With Sleep Problems Saw Greater Pain Improvements Over 12 Months ↗
1,139 UK chronic pain patients on medical cannabis: those with sleep problems showed greater pain improvements over 12 months than those without.
Systematic review finds early evidence that CBD may help with oral pain and inflammation ↗
A systematic review of 7 clinical studies found topical CBD showed promise for oral pain, gum inflammation, and mouth sores with no serious side effects, though evidence remains preliminary due to small study sizes and varying methods.
CBD relieves nerve pain in mice partly through the opioid system ↗
CBD reduced nerve pain in mice through a mechanism involving peripheral mu and delta opioid receptors, suggesting it may engage the body's own pain-relief pathways without being an opioid itself.
Chronic pain patients who use cannabis more frequently show weaker emotion regulation abilities ↗
Among 104 chronic pain patients on long-term opioid therapy, weaker emotion regulation ability predicted more frequent cannabis use, while pain severity did not, suggesting emotional factors may drive cannabis use more than pain itself.
Review explores potential of medicinal cannabis for sickle cell disease complications ↗
A narrative review examines how the endocannabinoid system's roles in pain, inflammation, and vascular function make medicinal cannabis a potential therapeutic option for sickle cell disease, though clinical evidence is still very limited.
Recreational marijuana dispensaries showed a trend toward lower opioid deaths, but results were not significant ↗
A synthetic control analysis found recreational marijuana dispensary openings in Colorado, Washington, and Oregon were associated with lower opioid death rates, but the reductions were not statistically significant despite being consistent across all three states.
Medical cannabis users in Illinois opioid alternative program had similar psychological well-being as non-users ↗
Among 860 enrollees in Illinois' opioid alternative program, medical cannabis users and non-users reported similar levels of psychological well-being, suggesting cannabis substitution for opioids neither improved nor harmed overall mental wellness.
Medical cannabis did not significantly affect quality of life in Illinois opioid alternative program ↗
Quality of life averaged between "good" and "fair" for all 860 enrollees in Illinois' opioid alternative program, with no significant difference between medical cannabis users and non-users.
Combining CBD-rich cannabis oil with fish oil prevented nerve pain in rats ↗
Combining CBD-rich cannabis oil with omega-3 fish oil prevented nerve pain and protected against nerve damage in rats, suggesting a potential combination therapy for neuropathic pain.
Osteoarthritis patients with recorded cannabis use were prescribed more opioids, not fewer ↗
UK data from 662 osteoarthritis patients with recorded cannabis use showed they were 2x more likely to be prescribed opioids than matched non-users, though confounding likely explains much of this association.
Medical cannabis improved pain, anxiety, sleep, and quality of life in complex regional pain syndrome patients ↗
A UK registry study of 64 CRPS patients found cannabis-based medicines improved pain severity, anxiety, sleep, and quality of life over 6 months, though the uncontrolled design limits conclusions.
Full-spectrum cannabis extracts reduced chronic pain by 50% or more in most patients in an open-label study ↗
An open-label study of 88 chronic pain patients found 58% achieved at least 50% pain reduction with full-spectrum cannabis, and 26% reduced or stopped other pain medications.
Blood levels of the body's own cannabinoids showed limited connection to pain sensitivity in healthy adults ↗
In 91 healthy adults, blood endocannabinoid levels showed no broad association with pain sensitivity, though anandamide was linked to pressure pain thresholds.
Nano-Formulated CBD Rapidly Suppressed Neuropathic Pain in Mice Without Side Effects ↗
A nano-formulated CBD preparation fully suppressed neuropathic pain in mice with a single dose by selectively quieting overactive pain circuits.
Combining Anti-Inflammatory Lipids with Cannabinoids Enhanced Pain Relief in Diabetic Rats ↗
Combining an anti-inflammatory lipid mediator with cannabinoid receptor agonists produced enhanced pain relief in diabetic rats beyond either treatment alone.
Medical Cannabis Patients Cut Opioid Use From 40mg to Under 3mg Daily Over One Year ↗
Chronic pain patients on medical cannabis reduced opioid use from 40mg to under 3mg daily over a year, but nearly half couldn't tolerate the cannabis treatment.
CBD Reduced Joint Pain in Breast Cancer Patients on Aromatase Inhibitors ↗
Phase 2 trial found CBD reduced aromatase inhibitor joint pain in 44% of breast cancer patients, with an average 2.36-point improvement among completers.
Nearly Half of Breast Cancer Patients in This Survey Used CBD ↗
Survey found nearly half of breast cancer patients used CBD, mainly for pain and insomnia, with mixed self-reported results.
Older Chronic Pain Patients Starting Medical Cannabis Were More Likely to Later Start Opioids ↗
Older chronic pain patients starting medical cannabis were 54% more likely to begin long-term opioids the following year.
Pediatric Palliative Care Cannabis Clinic Saw Reduced Hospital Days and Medication Use ↗
Pediatric palliative care cannabis clinic saw reduced hospitalizations and polypharmacy across 46 patients.
How the endocannabinoid system may drive fibromyalgia symptoms ↗
Emerging evidence suggests endocannabinoid system dysregulation may underlie fibromyalgia symptoms, potentially opening the door to targeted cannabinoid-based treatments.
THC outperformed CBD for chemotherapy-induced nerve pain in a large real-world study ↗
In 751 cancer patients with chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, THC-dominant cannabis products produced significantly better symptom relief, daily functioning, and quality of life than CBD-dominant products.
Women with fibromyalgia have elevated endocannabinoid levels linked to pain and poor fitness ↗
Women with fibromyalgia had elevated plasma anandamide that correlated with higher pain and lower fitness, while PAG-thalamus brain connectivity was linked to physical activity.
Israeli patients describe complex coping strategies around both the benefits and stigma of medical cannabis ↗
Israeli patients using medical cannabis for pain or PTSD described elaborate coping strategies for adverse effects and social stigma, including concealment, identity management, and building patient communities.
CBD and THC show promise for endometriosis symptoms but human evidence is lacking ↗
Literature review finds CBD showed anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects in experimental endometriosis models, but human clinical evidence for cannabinoid treatment of endometriosis is essentially absent.
Endocannabinoid Levels Track with Pancreatitis Stage and Pain ↗
Case-control study of 231 people found anandamide levels rose with pancreatitis severity while 2-AG dropped with pain intensity.
Combining THC and Opioids Did Not Improve Pain Relief for Knee Osteoarthritis ↗
Controlled trial of 21 knee OA patients found no pain benefit from combining synthetic THC with an opioid, and the combination caused more side effects.
Oral Cannabis Did Not Help Chemotherapy-Induced Nerve Pain in a Small Pilot Trial ↗
Pilot trial of 12 women found oral cannabis capsules (100 mg CBD/5 mg THC TID) did not outperform placebo for chemotherapy-induced nerve pain.
Does Medical Cannabis Help With Cancer Symptoms? A Rigorous Trial Says Mostly No ↗
A double-blind trial of 144 cancer patients found THC:CBD oil didn't improve overall symptoms vs. placebo—but pain scores did improve specifically.
About 1 in 10 Chronic Opioid Patients Tested Positive for THC ↗
Review of 244 urine screens from chronic opioid patients found 9.8% tested positive for THC, with inconsistent provider responses to positive results.
ER Patients with Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Had High Pain, Anxiety, and Repeat Visit Rates ↗
Pilot study of 18 CHS patients found high pain severity, elevated anxiety, extensive prior imaging workups, and a 17% 30-day ER return rate.
Dispensary Staff Recommended Topicals for Pain and Edibles for Sleep, Often Based on Personal Experience ↗
Secret shopper study of 35 Bay Area dispensaries found budtenders consistently recommended topicals for pain and edibles for sleep, based on personal experience.
Do Medical Marijuana Laws Reduce Opioid Use After Cancer Surgery? ↗
After medical marijuana dispensaries opened, cancer surgery patients were less likely to receive strong opioid prescriptions—but just passing the law wasn't enough.
CBD Isolate Survey: What Chronic Pain Users Report ↗
Anonymous survey found chronic pain sufferers using CBD isolate reported decreased pain at low doses with minimal side effects, though the design limits conclusions.
Cannabis Use Disorder Linked to More Opioid Prescriptions After Carpal Tunnel Surgery ↗
Matched cohort study found patients with cannabis-related disorders received more opioid prescriptions and had more ER visits after carpal tunnel surgery, with lower outpatient follow-up rates.
Louisiana Medical Marijuana Patients Report Less Pain and Fewer Prescription Painkillers ↗
Survey of 2,000+ Louisiana medical marijuana patients found average pain reduction of 3.4 points and evidence that MM substitutes for prescription painkillers.
Most Hand Surgery Patients Who Try CBD Do Not Find It Helpful ↗
Survey of 918 hand surgery patients found 15% had tried CBD, with only 39% of users reporting pain relief. CBD users had higher pain scores and worse function.
Adding CBD to THC Actually Reduced Pain Relief in Rats with Inflammation ↗
Rat study found oral THC provided dose-dependent inflammatory pain relief (stronger in females), but adding CBD diminished THC's analgesic effects rather than enhancing them.
Opioid-Cannabis Co-Users Are Younger, Lower Income, and More Psychologically Distressed ↗
National analysis found 15.2% of adults using opioids and/or cannabis co-used both, with co-users being younger, poorer, and more psychologically distressed than single-substance users.
American College of Physicians Issues New Guidance on Cannabis for Chronic Pain ↗
The American College of Physicians issued best practice advice telling clinicians to discuss cannabis benefits and harms with chronic pain patients, while identifying youth, pregnant patients, those with substance use disorders, and frail patients as groups where harms likely outweigh benefits.
Phase 3 Trial: Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extract Significantly Reduces Chronic Low Back Pain ↗
A phase 3 trial of 820 adults in Nature Medicine found full-spectrum cannabis extract VER-01 significantly reduced chronic low back pain vs. placebo, with effects sustained over 12 months and no dependence signals.
93% of Long-Term Medical Cannabis Users Say It Works for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain ↗
A prospective survey of 129 long-term medical cannabis users for chronic musculoskeletal pain found 93% reported symptom improvement, 72% had no cognitive effects, and 80% maintained stable usage over time.
Daily Cannabis Use Linked to 40% Higher Rates of Quitting Illicit Opioids Among People with Chronic Pain ↗
Among 1,242 people with chronic pain using illicit opioids in Vancouver, daily cannabis use was associated with 40% higher rates of opioid cessation, with effects stronger in men.
Key Endocannabinoid 2-AG Is Depleted in Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis Patients ↗
Clinical study found arthritis patients had significantly lower 2-AG (a key pain-regulating endocannabinoid) and altered inflammatory lipid profiles compared to healthy controls.
One in Four Teens with Chronic Pain Use Cannabis, and Most Use It to Self-Treat Symptoms ↗
JAMA study of 245 teens in a pain clinic found 25% used cannabis, with 77% using it to self-treat pain, sleep, or anxiety. Users had higher pain interference and depression scores.
Anandamide Shows Stronger Pain-Blocking Effects Than 2-AG on Migraine-Related Nerve Fibers in Mice ↗
In mouse meningeal preparations, anandamide showed stronger suppression of pain-related firing than 2-AG, pointing to FAAH inhibition as a migraine target.
Survey Reveals Who Uses CBD for Self-Medication in Germany and Why ↗
A German survey of 702 CBD users found 38% self-medicate for sleep, pain, depression, and anxiety, with older and unemployed individuals most likely.
IBD Patients Report Cannabis Helps With Pain, Nausea, and Anxiety, With Some Reducing Opioid Use ↗
A survey of 93 IBD patients found 54% used cannabis, with over 50% reporting symptom relief and 19% reducing opioid use.
Most Pediatric Cancer Patients Using Medical Cannabis Report Symptom Relief ↗
A survey of 24 pediatric cancer patients in a medical cannabis program found most reported symptom relief for nausea, appetite, and pain with minimal side effects.
Do People With Nerve Pain Use Cannabis Differently Than Those With Other Pain? ↗
Pain clinic patients with nerve pain used THC/CBD products more frequently than those with other pain types—possibly reflecting a gap in conventional treatment.
Interspecies Differences in Cannabinoid Receptor Distribution May Explain Why Animal Pain Studies Do Not Translate to Humans ↗
A review finds significant species differences in cannabinoid receptor distribution that may explain why animal cannabinoid pain studies fail to translate to human clinical trials.
Medical Cannabis Reduced Pain and Improved Sleep in People on Opioid Addiction Treatment ↗
Adults with opioid addiction and chronic pain who added a daily THC:CBD capsule to their buprenorphine treatment reported less pain and better sleep after three months, though opioid cravings did not significantly change.
People With Opioid Addiction Described Pain Relief, Better Sleep, and Fewer Cravings After a Year of Medical Cannabis ↗
Year-long interviews with people on opioid addiction treatment found they reported less pain, better mood and sleep, and fewer drug cravings from medical cannabis, though cost and appetite changes were concerns.
Chronic Pain Patients Had Unanswered Questions About Medical Cannabis Effectiveness, Safety, and Cost ↗
Focus groups with 28 chronic pain patients found widespread uncertainty about medical cannabis effectiveness, dosing, safety, and cost, whether or not they had tried it.
Medical Cannabis Dispensary Openings Were Linked to Significant Drops in Opioid Prescribing for Cancer Patients ↗
A JAMA Health Forum study of 3 million cancer patients found medical cannabis dispensary openings linked to 41 fewer patients per 10,000 receiving opioid prescriptions and shorter supply durations.
CBD/THC Extract Did Not Improve Pain Outcomes After Knee Surgery in Dogs ↗
A controlled trial of 42 dogs found CBD/THC extract added to standard painkillers did not improve pain, mobility, or recovery after knee surgery compared to placebo.
A Gene Variant Affecting Dopamine Breakdown Influenced THC Blood Levels in Pain Patients ↗
Small study of 58 pain patients found a dopamine-related gene variant significantly influenced THC blood levels, with biomarker differences between inhaled and oral cannabis routes.
Blocking an Endocannabinoid-Degrading Enzyme Relieved Migraine Pain in Mice Without Tolerance ↗
A drug that boosts natural endocannabinoids by blocking their degradation enzyme relieved both acute and chronic migraine pain in mice without losing effectiveness over repeated dosing.
Cannabis Legalization Was Linked to Slightly Higher Opioid Use Disorder Rates Among Veterans ↗
Analysis of millions of VHA patients from 2005-2022 found cannabis legalization was associated with small increases in opioid use disorder, with the largest effects in older adults with chronic pain.
Medical Cannabis Laws Combined with Prescription Monitoring Reduced Chronic Pain Outpatient Visits ↗
Study of nearly 5 million Medicaid patients found that states with both prescription monitoring and medical cannabis laws saw 19% fewer chronic pain outpatient visits, suggesting cannabis substitution for some conventional treatments.
Medical Cannabis Laws May Reduce Opioid Misuse, but Only Among People Already Using Cannabis ↗
Analysis of national survey data found medical cannabis laws reduced opioid misuse by 43% among cannabis users, but had no effect at the population level.
Educating Rheumatology Staff Quadrupled Medical Cannabis Referrals for Fibromyalgia Patients ↗
Educational intervention about medical cannabis for fibromyalgia quadrupled referral rates from 4% to 17% in a single rheumatology clinic.
Medical Cannabis Laws Had No Effect on Opioid Treatment or Overdose in Chronic Pain Patients ↗
Rigorous analysis of Medicare chronic pain patients in 7 states found medical cannabis laws had no measurable effect on opioid treatment or overdose-related healthcare.
Cannabis Plant Extract Reduces Pain and Inflammation in Animal Models ↗
Cannabis plant extract reduces pain, inflammation, and menstrual cramp-like symptoms in animal models at low doses, with effects from a mix of cannabinoids and other plant compounds.
Cannabis Shows Promise for Autoimmune Diseases, but Evidence Remains Thin ↗
Review finds cannabis shows therapeutic promise for autoimmune and rheumatic diseases, but calls for rigorous clinical trials that legal and social barriers have so far prevented.
Tobacco and Cannabis Use Linked to Worse Outcomes in Opioid Pain Patients ↗
Among 827 opioid pain patients, tobacco and cannabis use were linked to more pain, psychiatric problems, and opioid misuse concerns, while alcohol showed the opposite pattern.
Cannabinoids Show Promise for Dental Pain, but Clinical Evidence Is Lacking ↗
Review finds cannabinoids have properties relevant to dental pain and anxiety, but clinical evidence, standardized protocols, and regulatory clarity are all lacking.
CBD Oil for Knee Arthritis Pain: A Rigorous Trial Shows No Benefit Over Placebo ↗
A 60-day double-blind trial found CBD-rich cannabis oil (45 mg/day) did not reduce knee osteoarthritis pain more than placebo.
One in Five Black and Hispanic Men With Chronic Conditions Use Cannabis ↗
National survey finds 21% of Black and Hispanic men over 40 with chronic conditions use cannabis, driven by pain, stress, and disease burden.
CBD-Based Products Show Promise for Pets With Pain, Seizures, and Skin Problems ↗
Systematic review of 22 studies finds CBD-based products improve pain, seizures, and skin conditions in dogs with no serious side effects, but cat research is minimal.
Women Use More Cannabis Before Their Period, Driven by Mood and Pain ↗
Daily diary study of 40 women finds cannabis use peaks premenstrually, with mood and pain/coping motives interacting differently across menstrual cycle phases.
CBD Improved Walking Speed in MS Patients but Did Not Reduce Spasticity ↗
Randomized trial finds CBD improves walking speed and reduces pain in MS patients but does not directly reduce spasticity, suggesting CBD may help through alternative mechanisms.
CBD Paste Reduced Arthritis Pain in Cats, but Many Refused to Eat It ↗
Controlled study finds CBD/CBDA paste effectively reduces arthritis pain in cats, but nearly half dropped out due to refusal to eat the paste, highlighting a formulation challenge.
Cannabis Pain Research May Be Measuring the Wrong Things, Experts Argue ↗
Experts argue cannabis pain trials measure the wrong things: patients value psychological coping, sleep, and opioid reduction more than direct pain relief.
40% of Cannabis-Using Chronic Pain Patients at High Risk for Cannabis Use Disorder ↗
Two-year study finds 40% of cannabis-using chronic pain patients at high CUD risk with worse mental health, but pain outcomes do not worsen compared to non-users.
Topical CBD Gel Reduced Pain During Sex for Women With Vestibulodynia ↗
A small RCT found that topical CBD plus myrcene gel significantly reduced pain during sex for women with vestibulodynia compared to placebo over 60 days.
Cannabis May Play a Larger Role in Women's Suicidal Behavior Than Men's ↗
A study of 93,743 US adults found that cannabis use mediated a larger share of the link between depression, pain, and suicidal behavior in women than in men.
91% of Cannabis Users With Chronic Conditions Used It Medicinally During COVID-19 ↗
Among 1,466 cannabis users with chronic conditions during COVID-19, 91% used cannabis medicinally for sleep, pain, and headaches, but most lacked medical guidance.
Opioid Treatment Clinicians See Both Harms and Benefits of Cannabis Use in Their Patients ↗
Clinician survey found over half of opioid treatment clients reportedly use cannabis, with recognized benefits for sleep and mental health alongside harms like dependence.
Cancer Survivors in Pain Are More Likely to Use Cannabis—But Less Likely to Drink ↗
Cancer survivors in pain were more likely to use cannabis and cigarettes but less likely to drink—suggesting pain drives specific self-medication choices.
One in Ten Older Veterans Used Cannabis, and Over a Third of Users Screened Positive for Cannabis Use Disorder ↗
JAMA study of 4,503 older veterans found 10.3% used cannabis monthly, with over a third of users screening positive for cannabis use disorder. Smoking was linked to 3.5x higher CUD odds than edibles.
How to Actually Run a Cannabis Clinical Trial in Palliative Care ↗
Six unique challenges of running cannabis trials in palliative care—from legislation to product variability to compassionate access—drawn from real trial experience.
CBG—The 'Minor' Cannabinoid That Fights Nerve Pain Through a Different Pathway ↗
CBG reduced nerve pain in rodent models through CB2 receptors and reduced spinal inflammation—a potential non-psychoactive alternative to THC for pain.
Inhaled Cannabis for Diabetic Nerve Pain: A 5-Year Follow-Up Study ↗
Five-year observational study of 52 patients found inhaled cannabis associated with dramatic pain reduction (9.0 to 2.0) in treatment-resistant diabetic neuropathy, plus opioid-sparing effects.
Combining Endocannabinoid Boosters With Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Reduced Post-Surgical Pain in Mice ↗
Mouse study found that boosting endocannabinoids via MAGL inhibition reduced post-surgical pain through CB2 receptors, with additive benefit when combined with an NSAID at sub-threshold doses.
FAAH Gene Expression Altered in Chronic Migraine Patients, Linked to Psychiatric Symptoms ↗
Small study found FAAH, the enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids, is specifically altered in chronic migraine patients, with changes correlating to headache severity and psychiatric symptoms.
CBD Oil Combined With Orphenadrine Dramatically Reduced Pain in a Patient With Mast Cell Activation Syndrome ↗
Case report shows 87% reduction in pain interference for a mast cell activation syndrome patient treated with CBD oil and orphenadrine over 20 weeks.
The Spinal Endocannabinoid System Can Both Relieve and Worsen Nerve Pain, Depending on Conditions ↗
Review reveals the spinal endocannabinoid system has dual effects on neuropathic pain: typically relieving it, but paradoxically promoting pain under certain pathological conditions.
Injectable CBD Liposomes Work Better Than Oral CBD in Dogs With Arthritis ↗
Injectable liposomal CBD provided sustained blood levels and pain relief in arthritic dogs—bypassing the poor oral absorption that limits current CBD products.
Most People Using Cannabis for Endometriosis Access It Illegally Despite Medical Options ↗
International survey of 889 people using cannabis for endometriosis found most accessed it illegally, nearly all planned to continue, and over 30% hid use from their doctors due to stigma and legal concerns.
Pain Did Not Predict Cannabis Use Among People with Psychotic Disorders ↗
Study of 108 Dutch people with psychotic disorders found pain did not predict cannabis use, but those on less-sedating antipsychotics used more cannabis, suggesting different motivations than pain relief.
Recreational Cannabis Laws Affected Opioid and Non-Opioid Pain Prescriptions Differently ↗
Analysis of national insurance data examined whether recreational cannabis legalization changed opioid and non-opioid pain prescriptions, providing real-world evidence on cannabis-opioid substitution.
Combining Low Doses of Four Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids Reduces Gut Pain in Mice with Colitis ↗
Mouse study showed CBD and CBG each reduced colitis-related gut pain, and a four-cannabinoid combination achieved the same effect at individually subtherapeutic doses through sodium and calcium channel mechanisms.
Systematic Review: CBD and Ketamine Are the Only Drugs Tested Across All Three Major Chronic Pain Conditions ↗
Decade-long review of chronic pain drug trials found no breakthroughs, but identified CBD as one of only two drugs tested across fibromyalgia, CRPS, and chronic low back pain, with cannabinoid mechanisms among the most promising targets.
Two-Thirds of Women with Chronic Pelvic Pain and Fibromyalgia Have Tried CBD, with 81% Reporting Pain Improvement ↗
Survey of 1,382 women with chronic pelvic pain and fibromyalgia found 81% of current CBD users reported pain improvement, with correlated improvements in sleep, mood, and fatigue.
Cannabis Expectancies Predict Use Patterns in Chronic Pain Patients More Than Pain Severity Does ↗
A survey of 258 chronic pain patients found positive expectations about cannabis, not pain severity, were the strongest predictor of use frequency and problematic use.
Targeting CB2 and TRPV1 Receptors Together Shows Promise for Osteoarthritis Pain in Mice ↗
A mouse study found targeting both CB2 and TRPV1 receptors reduced osteoarthritis pain and inflammation more effectively than either target alone.
Common Pain Relievers Like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen May Work Partly Through the Endocannabinoid System ↗
NSAIDs, paracetamol, and other common painkillers enhance endocannabinoid levels and interact with cannabinoid signaling.
CBD Relieved Facial Nerve Pain More Consistently Than Standard Treatment in Both Male and Female Rats ↗
CBD reduced facial nerve pain consistently in both male and female rats without motor impairment, working through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms in pain pathways — outperforming carbamazepine on consistency.
CBD Shows Promise for Chronic Jaw and Facial Pain But Not Acute Dental Pain ↗
A systematic review found CBD effective for chronic jaw and facial muscle pain (TMD, bruxism) especially when applied topically, but not consistently helpful for acute dental pain — clarifying where CBD works best.
What Happened When a Geriatrics Clinic Started Supervising Older Adults' Cannabis Use ↗
A geriatric primary care clinic embedded a medical cannabis program—providing 144 supervised visits to older adults navigating cannabis use with complex medical needs.
Pain Predicted Young Adults Would Start Using Both Alcohol and Cannabis Together ↗
Among 3,544 young adults in the PATH study, moderate-to-severe pain predicted starting concurrent alcohol and cannabis use — a particularly risky pattern associated with heavier use and more harm.
Pain Was a Significant Predictor of Starting Cannabis Use for the First Time Among Young Adults ↗
Among 4,185 young adults who had never used cannabis, those with moderate-to-severe pain were significantly more likely to start — the first study establishing pain as a prospective predictor of cannabis initiation.
Cannabis Therapy Helped 91.5% of Nerve Pain Patients—and a Novel Biomarker Tracked Anxiety, Not Pain ↗
Cannabis therapy achieved 91.5% response in 200 neuropathic pain patients over 4 years—and a novel biomarker tracked anxiety 6x better than pain.
CBD and THC Together Rescue Migraine Symptoms in a Mouse Model ↗
Preclinical study showing a 100:1 CBD:THC ratio pretreatment rescues CGRP-induced migraine symptoms including light aversion and pain in mice.
Older Adults Using Cannabis for Chronic Pain Had More Depression and Pain Interference Over Time ↗
Among 353 older adults with chronic pain, the small minority using cannabis had more pain interference and depression over time—though the tiny sample size limits conclusions.
Cannabis and Opioid Receptors May Work Through Separate Brain Circuits, Not Direct Interaction ↗
Knockout mouse study challenges the theory that cannabis and opioid receptors interact directly, finding limited brain co-expression and no functional cross-dependence for pain relief or other effects.
The Cochrane Verdict on Cannabis for Nerve Pain: Modest Benefit, Significant Side Effects ↗
The Cochrane Review found cannabis provides modest neuropathic pain relief for a minority of patients, but side effects are common—the benefit-harm balance is delicate.
1 in 3 CBD Users Take It Instead of or Alongside Conventional Medications ↗
National survey finds 90 million US adults have tried CBD, with one-third of users taking it to replace or supplement conventional medications — most commonly OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen.
1 in 4 Cancer Patients Use Cannabis — Mostly for Sleep, Pain, and Nausea ↗
Survey of 2,602 cancer patients finds 1 in 4 use cannabis — primarily for sleep, with higher use among Stage 4 and chemotherapy patients, using multiple consumption methods.
CBD Reduced Opioid Self-Administration in Rats Without Reducing Pain Relief ↗
CBD reduced opioid self-administration in rats with nerve pain without reducing oxycodone's analgesic effects—a potential path to safer opioid prescribing.
People in Pain Are Willing to Pay More for Cannabis and Harder to Discourage from Using ↗
Behavioral economics study shows people in pain want more cannabis, pay more for it, and are harder to deter — underscoring pain as a key driver of cannabis demand and potential misuse.
Updated Review: Does Cannabis Actually Help Chronic Pain? ↗
Updated systematic review of 25 RCTs found THC products slightly reduce chronic pain but with significant side effects; CBD-dominant products showed no benefit.
Your Body's Cannabis-Like Chemicals Respond to Knee Surgery and Pain ↗
Study of 40 knee replacement patients found the body's endocannabinoid system actively responds to surgical pain, with lower anandamide levels linked to higher pain — opening doors for non-opioid pain strategies.
Medical Cannabis May Improve Quality of Life for Cancer Patients ↗
Review of 16 studies found medical cannabis may improve pain, sleep, appetite, mental health, and reduce opioid use in cancer patients — promising but in need of more rigorous clinical trials.
CBD May Reduce Pain Sensitivity Differently Depending on Opioid Treatment Type ↗
Proof-of-concept study in 7 opioid use disorder patients found CBD improved heat pain tolerance in those on buprenorphine but not methadone, with excellent safety at doses up to 1200mg — suggesting medication type matters for CBD pain relief.
Cancer Survivor Replaced High-Dose Opioids With Medical Cannabis for Pain ↗
Case report: 27-year-old cancer survivor completely replaced 120mg/day opioids with medical cannabis within 4 weeks, maintaining pain control at VAS 2-3 with unexpected resolution of a chronic infection over 9 months.
Your Body's Cannabis System May Be a Key to Treating Migraine ↗
Comprehensive review maps extensive overlap between migraine pathways and the endocannabinoid system, identifying multiple therapeutic targets for patients who don't respond to current treatments.
Moroccan Cannabis Seed Varieties Show Anti-Inflammatory and Pain-Reducing Properties ↗
Lab study of three Moroccan cannabis seed varieties found anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties from polyphenolic compounds, with Beldiya variety most active.
Cannabis Use Rose 900% Among Rheumatology Patients With Major Racial Disparities ↗
NLP analysis of 2.6 million medical notes found cannabis use surged 900% among rheumatology patients, with Black and Hispanic patients disproportionately using for pain — highlighting both a treatment gap and health disparity.
Medical Cannabis Improved Pain and Quality of Life for Endometriosis Patients Over 18 Months ↗
UK registry study of 63 endometriosis patients found medical cannabis improved pain, quality of life, anxiety, and sleep over 18 months — the first longitudinal evidence for this common women's health condition.
What Research Actually Shows About Cannabis for Pain Management ↗
A comprehensive review finds mixed evidence for cannabis as a pain treatment, with effectiveness depending on the cannabinoid, delivery method, and type of pain — underscoring the need for more rigorous research.
JAMA's Comprehensive Review of What Cannabis Can and Can't Treat ↗
JAMA review found strong evidence for cannabinoids treating nausea, appetite loss, and seizures, but guidelines recommend against inhaled or high-potency cannabis for most conditions.
Cannabis Use in MS Patients Linked to Higher Pain and Fatigue the Next Day ↗
Daily tracking in 258 MS patients found cannabis use predicted worse fatigue and pain the next day, paradoxically worsening the symptoms patients likely use it to manage.
Does Cannabis Use Before Surgery Affect Pain and Opioid Needs Afterward? ↗
Review of 42 studies finds cannabis users may need more opioids after surgery, particularly for spine procedures, though results vary significantly by surgical type and study design.
THC Kills Pain by Blocking Nerve Signals — Without Involving Cannabis Receptors ↗
THC directly blocks pain-signaling sodium channels NaV1.7 and NaV1.8 through the local anesthetic binding site, revealing a cannabinoid-receptor-independent mechanism for pain relief.
Fruit Flies Validate a New Model for Studying Chronic Pain — and CBD Works in It ↗
Genetically modified fruit fly with chronic pain-related sodium channel mutation responds to CBD but not conventional treatment, validating a fast, ethical model for screening new pain medications.
Cannabis Used by Up to 95% of Endometriosis Patients for Pain, But No Controlled Trials Exist ↗
Up to 95% of endometriosis patients use cannabis for pain, but no controlled trials exist to confirm efficacy.
Medical cannabis improved sleep, fatigue, and pain for patients with muscle spasticity or spasms, but not physical functioning ↗
Medical cannabis improved sleep, fatigue, and pain for spasticity/spasm patients but not physical functioning.
The Growing Risk of Cannabis Drug Interactions as Legal Access Expands ↗
Review mapped how cannabinoids interfere with drug metabolism through CYP450 enzymes, potentially altering effectiveness of antidepressants, blood thinners, opioids, and more.
How Medical Cannabis Could Help Patients With Head and Neck Cancer ↗
Review explores how medical cannabis could address the severe symptom burden in head and neck cancer, including pain, nausea, cachexia, and difficulty swallowing.
Veterans in Addiction Treatment Describe Using Cannabis to Manage Pain ↗
Qualitative study found veterans in addiction treatment used cannabis to manage chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep — framing it as a harm reduction alternative to more dangerous substances.
Cannabis Users Were Less Likely to Go Opioid-Free After Colorectal Surgery ↗
Prospective study finds half of colorectal surgery patients can go opioid-free after discharge, but cannabis users were far less likely to achieve this.
Can Cannabinoids Help With Pain in Older Adults? A Review of the Science ↗
Review explored how age-related endocannabinoid system changes and chronic inflammation ('inflammaging') create a rationale for cannabinoid pain therapy in older adults, though clinical evidence is limited.
Hemp's Potential for Brain Diseases: A Review of Seeds, Leaves, and Flowers ↗
Review found hemp-derived compounds from seeds, leaves, and flowers show neuroprotective potential across epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and MS — mostly in preclinical studies.
Cannabis Users Reported More Pain After Breast Reconstruction Surgery ↗
Retrospective study of 237 breast reconstruction patients found cannabis users reported higher pain and used 52% more opioids, though this was not independent of other factors.
Two Lesser-Known Cannabinoids Reduced Pain Through Multiple Receptor Pathways ↗
Study finds lesser-known cannabinoids CBV and THCV reduce pain through both vanilloid and cannabinoid receptor pathways in a genetic model organism.
THC/CBD therapy nearly halved jaw pain scores and eliminated most functional limitations in TMD patients ↗
A crossover study of 20 TMD patients found 90 days of sublingual THC/CBD (1:1 ratio, 10 mg/day) halved pain scores, improved jaw function, and nearly eliminated pain sensitization, with large effect sizes and minimal placebo response.
Opioid users showed blunted endocannabinoid stress response compared to healthy controls ↗
Healthy controls increased 2-AG endocannabinoid levels after social stress while chronic opioid users showed a blunted response, suggesting a dysfunctional stress buffer that may contribute to opioid vulnerability and relapse.
First RCT: vaporized THC+CBD was superior to placebo for acute migraine, with effects lasting 48 hours ↗
The first RCT of cannabis for acute migraine found vaporized THC+CBD significantly superior to placebo for pain relief (67% vs 47%), pain freedom, and symptom freedom at 2 hours, with sustained benefits to 48 hours, while CBD alone was ineffective.
Medical cannabis authorization did not significantly reduce opioid prescribing in a university pain clinic ↗
A university pain clinic study found medical cannabis authorization was associated with a non-significant 14 mg/day decrease in opioid doses, while long-term opioid use status dominated prescribing patterns regardless of cannabis access.
Preoperative cannabis use had no effect on pain or outcomes after cardiac surgery ↗
A prospective study of 73 cardiac surgery patients found no differences in postoperative morphine requirements, pain scores, extubation time, ICU stay, or complications between cannabis users and non-users.
Four small trials suggest cannabinoids may reduce diabetic nerve pain, but the evidence is too limited for firm conclusions ↗
Systematic review of four small RCTs found three showed significant pain reduction from cannabinoids in diabetic peripheral neuropathy, with THC doses around 16-18 mg/day showing promise.
About a third of endometriosis patients using cannabis reported side effects, but some of those effects might actually be helpful ↗
International survey subset found 32% of endometriosis patients using cannabis reported side effects, but researchers argue some adverse effects may have therapeutic value in this population.
A CBD-rich cannabis extract reduced inflammation and pain in lab animals in a dose-dependent manner ↗
Preclinical study found a chemically characterized CBD-rich cannabis extract reduced inflammatory markers in cells and showed dose-dependent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in animal models.
Medical cannabis program participation was linked to reduced opioid prescriptions over 18 months in a New York study ↗
JAMA Internal Medicine cohort study of 204 chronic pain patients found New York medical cannabis program participation associated with 3.53 fewer daily morphine milliequivalents per month of full dispensation over 18 months.
CBD Suppositories Showed Promise for Chronic Pelvic Pain in Men ↗
Pilot trial of rectal CBD/hyaluronic acid suppositories found 81% of men with chronic pelvic pain improved over 30 days, with significant reductions in symptom scores.
Canadian veterans who used cannabis regularly had higher rates of chronic pain, mental disorders, and suicidal thoughts but were also more likely to seek help ↗
Study of 1,992 Canadian veterans found regular cannabis users had 2-4 times the odds of chronic pain, mental disorders, and suicidal ideation, but also 5.6 times the odds of seeking professional help.
THC/CBD combinations showed modest opioid-sparing potential after orthopedic surgery, but CBD alone had mixed results ↗
Scoping review of 14 studies found THC/CBD combinations showed modest opioid-sparing potential after orthopedic surgery, while CBD-only interventions had inconsistent results.
An international expert panel agreed on 40 key items for assessing cannabis use risk in rheumatology patients ↗
Delphi study with 12 international experts reached consensus on 40 items for a cannabis risk assessment tool in rheumatology, covering demographics, medical history, and consumption patterns.
Nearly 500 fibromyalgia patients in the UK saw improvements in pain, anxiety, and sleep after starting medical cannabis ↗
UK registry data from 497 fibromyalgia patients showed medical cannabis was linked to improved pain, anxiety, sleep, and quality of life, though nearly half reported side effects.
Kidney disease patients say cannabis helps manage overwhelming symptoms but face major barriers to accessing it legally ↗
Interviews with 17 kidney disease patients revealed they value cannabis for symptom relief but face financial barriers, stigma, and clinicians who lack knowledge about prescribed options.
The endocannabinoid system plays a central role in headache disorders, and targeting it could offer new treatments ↗
Review found the endocannabinoid system regulates key headache mechanisms including pain signaling, inflammation, and cortical excitability, with sex differences shaping treatment responses.
Canadian medical cannabis patients saw improvements in pain, anxiety, and depression over 6 months, but none reached clinically meaningful thresholds ↗
Canadian 24-week study found medical cannabis patients improved on pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life measures, but improvements fell below clinically meaningful thresholds.
A pilot trial found medical cannabis feasible and potentially helpful for pain, appetite, and insomnia in pancreatic cancer patients ↗
Pilot RCT of 32 pancreatic cancer patients found medical cannabis feasible through state program partnership, with promising but non-significant improvements in pain, appetite, and insomnia.
Topical THC and CBD balms were well tolerated for joint pain in breast cancer survivors on aromatase inhibitors ↗
Randomized trial found topical THC and CBD balms well tolerated for breast cancer treatment-related joint pain, with 86% reporting improvement and THC balm outperforming CBD.
CBD Oil Reduces Arthritis Pain in Dogs — The First Controlled Trial ↗
The first controlled trial of CBD for dog arthritis — from Cornell University — found significant pain reduction and activity improvement. Dogs can't placebo, making this unusually clean evidence.
Twenty Years of the Endocannabinoid Deficiency Hypothesis: What Held Up and What Didn't ↗
Twenty-year reassessment of the hypothesis that migraine, fibromyalgia, and IBS share underlying endocannabinoid dysfunction — evolved from simple deficiency to nuanced dysregulation model.