Cannabis Lacks Strong Evidence for Pain Relief

Although limited evidence suggests that cannabis may benefit neuropathic pain, insufficient evidence is available for other types of chronic pain, according to a recent review.

In their systematic review, the reviewers analyzed intervention trials and observational studies that examined pain, quality of life, and adverse effects associated with cannabis use among adults.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
RELATED CONTENT
Evidence Supporting Medical Marijuana Use Is Weak
Frequent Cannabis Use Linked to Depression, Suicidal Thoughts
Rheumatology Patients Should Avoid Herbal Cannabis Therapy
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Of 27 chronic pain trials included in their analysis, the reviewers found low-strength evidence that suggested cannabis alleviated neuropathic pain. However, there was insufficient evidence for other types of chronic pain.

Eleven systematic reviews and 32 primary studies found that cannabis increased the risk for motor vehicle accidents, psychotic symptoms, and short-term cognitive impairment among the general population.

In addition, adverse pulmonary effects were not found in younger individuals who used cannabis, but there was insufficient evidence on other long-term physical harms, as well as harms for heavy or long-term users and older populations. 

“Limited evidence suggests that cannabis may alleviate neuropathic pain in some patients, but insufficient evidence exists for other types of chronic pain,” the researchers concluded. “Among general populations, limited evidence suggests that cannabis is associated with an increased risk for adverse mental health effects.”

—Melissa Weiss

Reference:

Nugent SM, Morasco BJ, O’Neil ME, et al. The Effects of Cannabis Among Adults With Chronic Pain and an Overview of General Harms: A Systematic Review [published online August 15, 2017]. Ann Intern Med. doi:10.7326/M17-0155.