Cannabis Matches Ibuprofen for Chronic Pain Relief, OHSU Review Reveals

A systematic review conducted by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) researchers has evaluated the effectiveness of cannabis in treating chronic pain. Published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the review analyzed 25 randomized controlled trials across Europe, the United States, and Canada. The findings reveal that while cannabis may contribute to pain relief, the overall effect is minimal, averaging a reduction of only one point on a scale of 1 to 10.

Cannabis vs. Conventional Painkillers

Interestingly, the results indicated that cannabis products perform similarly to conventional painkillers, including ibuprofen and opioids, in clinical trials. However, the review highlighted a critical insight: only those products containing significant amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) demonstrated any effect in reducing pain. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis, while cannabidiol (CBD) is another important component.

Key Findings from the Review

• The average pain reduction from cannabis is about 1 point on a scale of 1 to 10.
• Products with THC are more effective, whereas CBD-only products showed negligible effects on pain.
• Side effects from THC-containing products can include nausea, sedation, and dizziness.
• The review was funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Roger Chou, a pain management expert at OHSU and the lead author of the study, expressed disappointment over the minimal efficacy of CBD alone. “The idea that CBD could provide significant therapeutic effects was not supported by our findings,” he stated. Despite the overall modest benefits, some individuals may still find CBD effective for their specific needs, and the review’s average results do not diminish personal experiences.

Modern Perspectives on Pain Management

Pain specialists are keen on discovering safer alternatives to opioids. Cannabis remains a controversial yet popular choice, especially since many states now provide legal access to it for medical and recreational purposes. Patients and doctors alike are encouraged to weigh the potential benefits and risks of cannabis-based treatments.

Chou emphasized that the current review should not deter current CBD users experiencing positive effects. The research highlights the disparity between medical-grade products and the wide range of plant-based products available in legal markets like Oregon.

Future Research Directions

Chou and his colleagues also pointed to the need for more comprehensive studies. The review primarily focused on THC and CBD but did not explore the potential benefits of other cannabis compounds. Currently, an oral spray combining THC and CBD, known as nabiximols, has received approval for medical use in Canada and the United Kingdom but remains unapproved in the United States.

Recommendations for Cannabis Use

The American College of Physicians advises against using cannabis for chronic pain treatment in young adults, adolescents, and individuals with a history of substance use disorder. Patients should engage in discussions with their healthcare providers to evaluate the appropriateness of cannabis for their conditions.