‘Is Cannabis An Effective Pain Reliever?

Ancient civilisations have used cannabis for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, recognising its potential to treat various ailments. In recent years, there has been a surge in interest regarding the potential of cannabis to relieve pain, particularly in individuals suffering from chronic conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and fibromyalgia. The legalisation of medicinal cannabis in the UK in 2018 for certain medical conditions has led to increased research into its therapeutic benefits. But is cannabis truly effective in relieving pain? In this article, we explore the science behind cannabis as a pain reliever, its uses, and the current evidence supporting its efficacy.

How Cannabis Works In The Body

Cannabis contains several active compounds, the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain, mood, and appetite.

• THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the “high” sensation. It works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, which can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Contrarily, CBD is non-psychoactive and frequently used for its therapeutic effects. It does not produce a “high” but is believed to reduce pain by interacting with different receptors in the body, including those involved in pain modulation.

The way these compounds affect the body’s pain response varies from person to person, making the effectiveness of cannabis in pain relief a subject of on-going research.

The Science Behind Cannabis And Pain Relief

Studies have shown that cannabis, particularly CBD and THC, may have a role in managing pain. However, to fully understand its efficacy and safety, the scientific community still needs more research to draw definitive conclusions.

Researchers have found cannabis to be beneficial in treating various types of chronic pain. The Journal of Pain published a study demonstrating that cannabis, specifically THC, can alleviate pain in patients suffering from conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, and cancer-related pain. Researchers believe that THC’s activation of the body’s cannabinoid receptors aids in reducing pain and inflammation. Many patients report feeling an improvement in their pain levels and overall quality of life after using cannabis.

• Neuropathic Pain: Nerve damage causes neuropathic pain, which is notoriously difficult to treat. Research has shown that both THC and CBD can be effective in managing neuropathic pain. A study from the European Journal of Pain found that cannabis reduced the intensity of pain in patients with conditions such as MS and spinal cord injuries. The pain-relieving effects are believed to come from the cannabinoids’ ability to reduce inflammation and provide neuroprotective effects, thus improving the function of the nervous system.
• Arthritis Pain: One of the most common types of chronic pain is arthritis. Both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) cause joint pain and inflammation, which can be debilitating. There is evidence to suggest that cannabis may help alleviate this pain. Rheumatology published a study that found CBD oil significantly reduced pain and improved sleep in people with arthritis. But THC may help with joint inflammation and mobility.
• Cancer Pain: Cancer patients frequently endure extreme pain as a result of the disease or as a side effect of treatment, such as chemotherapy. Researchers have investigated cannabis’s potential to alleviate both cancer-related pain and treatment-related side effects like nausea and loss of appetite. The Clinical Journal of Pain published a study that found cannabis significantly reduced cancer pain, especially when used in combination with opioids. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the benefits of cannabis, despite its demonstrated ability to reduce pain and improve quality of life in cancer patients.

The Pros And Cons Of Using Cannabis For Pain

While cannabis holds promise as a pain reliever, it’s important to consider both the potential benefits and drawbacks before using it as part of a pain management plan.

Pros

1. Non-Addictive Alternative: People often view cannabis as a safer alternative to highly addictive opioids for managing chronic pain. It has a much lower risk of addiction and overdose, making it a compelling option for those seeking non-addictive pain relief.
2. Fewer Side Effects: Traditional painkillers, especially opioids, can come with significant side effects, including nausea, constipation, and drowsiness. Cannabis, particularly CBD, tends to have fewer and less severe side effects, though THC can cause dizziness or fatigue in some users.
3. Versatility: Cannabis can be consumed in various forms, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and vapourised products, making it easier for individuals to find a method that works for them. This versatility is one of the reasons cannabis has gained popularity as a pain management option.

Cons

1. Psychoactive Effects: THC can cause feelings of euphoria or impairment, which may not be suitable for everyone, particularly for those who need to stay alert for daily activities like driving or working.
2. Variable Effects: The effects of cannabis can vary depending on the strain, method of consumption, and individual biology. This means that not all patients will experience the same level of pain relief.
3. Legal and Access Issues: While medicinal cannabis is legal in the UK for certain conditions, it is not universally available and may require a prescription from a specialist. This can create barriers for individuals seeking cannabis-based pain relief.

Is Cannabis The Right Option For You?

Cannabis may offer significant benefits for those suffering from chronic pain, particularly when traditional treatments have been ineffective or have caused unwanted side effects. However, it is not a universally applicable solution. If you are considering using cannabis to manage pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition. In the UK, a doctor or medical cannabis specialist may prescribe medicinal cannabis for certain conditions, and it’s important to understand the legal requirements and guidelines for its use.

At The MARUCANNA, we offer a range of treatments for pain management, including innovative approaches that may include cannabis-based therapies where appropriate. If you are struggling with chronic pain, contact us today to discuss your options and find the right treatment plan for you.

While cannabis is not a miracle cure for pain, it has shown considerable promise in the management of chronic pain, particularly for conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, and cancer. With on-going research, cannabis-based treatments may become more widely available and accessible. If you are considering using cannabis for pain relief, it is important to have an informed discussion with a healthcare provider to ensure it is the right choice for your needs.