The researchers analyzed research from the past 20 years into the effects and potential benefits of cannabinoids on neuropathic pain.
A recently published study looked at data on the use of cannabinoids, primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), for the relief of neuropathic pain and their impact on patients’ quality of life. The study, “Cannabinoids as natural alternatives for the management of neuropathic pain: a systematic review of randomized placebo-controlled trials,” was published in Cureus on September 23, 2024.
The researchers examined data from studies published in PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Turning research into practice (Trip), and Google Scholar from January 1, 2000 to August 31, 2024. After applying exclusion criteria, five articles were finally selected for the study. Double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trials were also included for data synthesis.
The researchers summarized five studies, noting dosage, method of administration, and results. The summary states the main findings as follows: “Compared to placebo, cannabinoids significantly reduced chronic pain as measured by the visual analog scale (33% vs. 15%). Transdermal CBD administration produced a more significant reduction in sharp pain according to the neuropathic pain scale. Few side effects were recorded, further highlighting the potential benefits of cannabinoids.”
The study also discusses the potential of cannabinoids as an alternative to commonly used medications for treating neuropathic pain, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids. These medications are estimated to reduce pain by 50% in one-third of patients, but serious side effects and possible addictive properties are of concern. The researchers say that the stigma surrounding cannabinoids and uncertain legal status are reasons for the lack of extensive data on their use in pain management, and this lack of data contributes to hesitation to recommend them. The researchers note that more data on the long-term effects and interactions of cannabinoids are needed, and conclude by suggesting that further studies be conducted with larger sample sizes in more diverse participant populations.
reference
Reechaye D.; Perrine A.; Jahajeeah Y.; Dookhee, F.; Robinson, J.; Banerjee, I. Cannabinoids as natural therapies for neuropathic pain management: a systematic review of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Cureus 16(9). DOI:10.7759/cureus.70021
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