Cannabis Against Chronic Pain In Cancer

Chronic pain is a common symptom experienced by cancer patients, and it can be caused by cancer itself, its treatment, or a combination of both. This pain can significantly affect a patient's quality of life and may be resistant to traditional forms of pain relief, such as opioids.

Medical cannabis has been shown to be effective in alleviating chronic pain in cancer patients. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, can interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain perception and inflammation. This interaction can help reduce pain associated with cancer-related conditions, including neuropathy, bone pain, and post-surgical pain.

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis Against Chronic Pain in Cancer?

A May 2023 study by BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care concluded that cannabis is a safe option for managing pain, alongside other drugs. The results have been derived from responses of 358 cancer patients over 3.5 years.

The study also pointed out that products that had an equal balance of the active ingredients tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) were the most effective compared to THC-dominant or CBD-dominant products.

Sleepiness and fatigue were the two most commonly reported side effects. Of the total patients, eleven reported moderate to severe side effects, and five stopped taking medicinal cannabis.

“Our data suggest a role for [medicinal cannabis] as a safe and complementary treatment option in patients with cancer [who fail] to reach adequate pain relief through conventional analgesics, such as opioids,” the researchers said.

Another study, ‘Cannabinoids for Symptom Management and Cancer Therapy’: The Evidence, 2018 suggests that CBD, in combination with other cannabinoids, may be useful for palliative care. The article discusses the potential benefits of cannabinoids for symptom management in cancer patients, including pain, nausea, and appetite loss.

In terms of pain management, the authors conclude that there is "strong evidence" to support the use of cannabinoids for chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and spasticity. They note that THC and nabiximols are effective in clinical trials, while the evidence for CBD is more limited.

Does cannabis for chronic pain in cancer have side effects?

The side effects of using medical cannabis for pain, palliative, and cancer care can vary depending on the individual, the method of use, the dosage, and the type of cannabis used.

It can range from Psychotropic effects like euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion to cognitive ones including issues related to memory, attention, and reaction time. Besides, smoking or inhaling cannabis can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and bronchitis. This can be a concern for patients with preexisting lung conditions.

Cannabis can also cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Key takeaways:

• Chronic pain is a common symptom experienced by cancer patients and can be caused by the cancer itself, its treatment, or a combination of both.

• Medical cannabis is effective in alleviating chronic pain in cancer patients by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system to help reduce pain associated with cancer-related conditions, including neuropathy, bone pain, and post-surgical pain.

• A 2023 study by BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care concluded that cannabis is a safe option for managing pain alongside other drugs, with products that have an equal balance of THC and CBD being the most effective.

Please Note: It's important to note that while medical cannabis can be a useful treatment for pain-related conditions, it should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The appropriate dosage and form of cannabis will depend on the individual's condition and medical history, and careful monitoring is necessary to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.