• Inflammatory pain results from tissue damage or inflammation, leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort.
• Role of Cannabinoids: CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate inflammatory pain by reducing inflammation and immune response. Additionally, cannabinoids like THC may modulate immune function and suppress inflammatory signaling pathways.

Medical Cannabis Against Osteoarthritis

Medical cannabis should not be used as a treatment option for osteoarthritis, a chronic degenerative joint disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. However, it can be used in conjunction with other treatment options. Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating pain perception and inflammation.

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which can help relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis. THC can reduce pain by activating the body's CB1 receptors in the central nervous system, while CBD can reduce inflammation and pain by acting on multiple pathways in the body.

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis Against Osteoarthritis?

Studies have shown that medical cannabis can help improve pain, sleep, and quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis.

According to a 2020 study, ‘Cannabidiol: A Brief Review of Its Therapeutic and Pharmacologic Efficacy in the Management of Joint Disease’, studies have shown that CBD can effectively reduce pain response in mice with acute arthritic conditions and improve fracture healing in a group of mice with mid-femoral fractures by enhancing collagen cross-linking. However, there is a shortage of high-quality and innovative research on the use of CBD for musculoskeletal diseases in humans, apart from anecdotal reports.

Another 2020 study states that CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in animal models of rheumatoid arthritis. The mechanism of action is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to involve the activation of TRPA1 and mitochondrial targets. CBD may decrease chronic inflammation in the joint and specifically target pro-inflammatory immune cells and fibroblasts, which can help resolve inflammation. CBD may also work well with other anti-rheumatic drugs to provide additional benefits. CBD also targets TRPV2, which may increase the uptake of cytotoxic drugs and reduce RASF invasion and matrix metalloproteinase production. In conclusion, CBD may be useful as an additional treatment for rheumatoid arthritis that can enhance the effectiveness of existing anti-rheumatic drugs.

It's important to note that while these studies show promise for the use of CBD in osteoarthritis, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for human use.

Does cannabis for osteoarthritis 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:

• Medical cannabis can be used in conjunction with other treatment options for osteoarthritis, but it should not be used as the primary treatment.

• Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which can help relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis.

• Studies have shown that CBD can effectively reduce pain response in mice with acute arthritic conditions and improve fracture healing in a group of mice with mid-femoral fractures by enhancing collagen cross-linking.

• CBD may be useful as an additional treatment for rheumatoid arthritis that can enhance the effectiveness of existing anti-rheumatic drugs by targeting pro-inflammatory immune cells and fibroblasts, decreasing chronic inflammation, and increasing the uptake of cytotoxic drugs.

Please note: It is important to note that while medical cannabis may provide pain relief, it may also have potential side effects and risks, and further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for treating osteoarthritis. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider before considering medical cannabis as a treatment option.