Trials are underway to assess the benefits of cannabis for certain serious illnesses
Cannabis and CBD may help with nerve-related pain Creativan/Shutterstock
Reader Question: Has France legalized cannabis for medical reasons? And what is the “CBD” I see being sold?
France is experimenting with legalizing (and reimbursing) cannabis for people suffering from serious illnesses. It started in 2021 and was originally for two years, but will last at least until the end of this year. However, if you have not yet participated in a trial, you will not be able to participate in a trial at this time.
Nerve-related pain that is not adequately relieved by standard treatments, certain types of epilepsy, certain cancer symptoms (or side effects of cancer drugs), palliative care, pain associated with multiple sclerosis or similar central disease. It is prescribed for symptoms such as convulsions. Nervous system condition.
It is inhaled as dried flower in a vaporizer or prescribed orally as an oil. Does not include versions designed for smoking.
Read more: French hospitals approve medical cannabis as painkiller
As for CBD – cannabidiol – this is the second most active ingredient in cannabis.
The sale and use of CBD products was officially legalized in France in 2022 after several years of legal uncertainty.
It is essentially a form of cannabis that contains no or only trace amounts of THC, the drug's “psychoactive” ingredient.
This means that it does not give the user a “high” feeling and is not considered addictive. It comes in the form of oils, dried flowers, herbal teas, and resins.
A Harvard University study found evidence that it may be effective for conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. The study said it was “relatively non-toxic” but could have side effects such as nausea, fatigue and irritability, and doctors did not recommend smoking it.
