Study Confirms Medical Cannabis Effectively Reduces Cancer Pain
An international study confirms medical cannabis as a safe and effective treatment for cancer-related pain, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapy
Key Points
- 1Medical cannabis effectively reduces cancer-related pain
- 2Study involved 358 cancer patients over three years
- 3Balanced THC and CBD formulations were most effective
- 4Cannabis use reduced reliance on other pain medications
- 5Further research is needed to confirm findings
A recent study conducted by an international team of researchers has confirmed that medical cannabis is a safe and effective treatment for cancer-related pain. The study, which involved researchers from institutions such as the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin and McGill University in Canada, found that when used alongside traditional pain medications, medical cannabis can significantly alleviate pain in cancer patients
The study, published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care journal, examined the impact of medical cannabis on pain management in cancer patients. Researchers surveyed 358 adults with cancer over a three-year period to gather real-world data on pain and its treatment. The average age of participants was 57, with nearly half being male, and the most common cancer types among participants were genitourinary, breast, and bowel cancers
Findings from the study revealed that a balanced formulation of THC and CBD was most effective in reducing pain. Participants reported significant pain reduction at three, six, and nine months into the study. Additionally, the use of medical cannabis was associated with a decrease in the number of other pain medications patients required, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapy
The study also noted that medical cannabis was well-tolerated by patients, with minimal side effects such as fatigue and drowsiness reported by only a few participants. Researchers attributed the favorable safety profile to the close supervision by healthcare professionals overseeing the treatment. This aspect underscores the importance of medical oversight in cannabis therapy for cancer pain
Looking ahead, the researchers emphasized the need for further studies, particularly randomized controlled trials, to validate these findings. They also highlighted the necessity of exploring the benefits and risks of medical cannabis in younger populations. This ongoing research could pave the way for broader acceptance and integration of cannabis in pain management protocols for cancer patients