A new study highlights the conflict that remains regarding the clinical benefits of medicinal cannabis. Consensus on its use for various conditions still seems a long way off.
The need for solid cannabis research (and conclusions) is more important than ever, given more than a quarter of adults in the US and Canada report having ever used cannabis for medical purposes, and an estimated 10.5% of the US population reports using cannabidiol (CBD).
Medicinal cannabis is being pursued to treat or manage a wide range of conditions, but its efficacy and potential harms are still a subject of hot debate.
Take for instance a new study involving researchers from various institutions in the USA, which analyzed a number of randomized clinical trials. It found:
- A small but significant reduction in nausea and vomiting from various causes.
- HIV/AIDS patients using cannabinoids experienced a moderate effect on weight gain compared with placebo
- Evidence-based guidelines do not recommend the use of inhaled or high-potency cannabis (≥10% or 10 mg Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol [Δ9-THC]) for medical purposes.
- High-potency compared with low-potency cannabis use associated with increased risk of psychotic symptoms and generalized anxiety disorder
- 29% of individuals who used cannabis for medical purposes met criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD).
- Daily inhaled cannabis use compared with non-daily use was associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction and stroke.
The researchers state evidence from randomized clinical trials does not support the use of cannabis or cannabinoids for most conditions for which it is promoted, such as acute pain and insomnia. This is in spite of the fact some studies strongly indicate otherwise. There’s also mounting evidence the co-use of medical cannabis may reduce prescribed opioid use; with some patients ceasing opioids altogether while still maintaining sufficient pain control and general quality of life.
But its effectiveness certainly varies between individuals.
The researchers for this latest review state:
“Evidence is insufficient for the use of cannabis or cannabinoids for most medical indications. Clear guidance from clinicians is essential to support safe, evidence-based decision-making. Clinicians should weigh benefits against risks when engaging patients in informed discussions about cannabis or cannabinoid use.”
The study: Therapeutic Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids — A Review has been published in the journal JAMA.
