Researchers studied 18 randomized, placebo-controlled trials and 7 cohort studies that assessed cannabinoids
Scientists say their research found cannabis products can cause short-term reductions in chronic pain, but little else.
“With so much buzz around cannabis-related products, and the easy availability of recreational and medical marijuana in many states, consumers and patients might assume there would be more evidence about the benefits and side effects,” said Marian McDonagh, a doctor of pharmacy at OHSU.
However, the evidence is slim.
Researchers looked at both tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, and cannabidiol, or CBD, products.
They found evidence indicating two FDA-approved synthetic products, dronabinol and nabilone, which are made of 100% THC, are both effective as short-term treatments for neuropathic pain caused by damaged peripheral nerves. This includes diabetic neuropathy, which results in burning and tingling pain.
Although effective, these products can also cause side effects such as sedation and dizziness.
Another product, made of equal parts THC and CBD, known as nabiximols, proved effective at providing some benefit for neuropathic pain. The product is not available in the U.S. and also led to side effects like nausea, sedation and dizziness.
Dr. McDonagh said the limited amount of evidence about the effectiveness of cannabis products surprised OHSU researchers.
“Unfortunately, there is very little scientifically valid research into most of these products,” she said. “We saw only a small group of observational cohort studies on cannabis products that would be easily available in states that allow it, and these were not designed to answer the important questions on treating chronic pain.” [Read More @ KOIN News]
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