Neuropathic pain is a common but complex condition that affects the nervous system. It can be caused by nerve damage, disease, or injury and is often difficult to treat. Recently, interest has grown in the potential medicinal use of cannabis derivatives as a treatment for neuropathic pain. Let’s explore some of the recent scientific studies on this topic.
The Science Behind Cannabis Derivatives for Neuropathic Pain Treatment
A growing body of research supports the use of cannabinoids—particularly cannabidiol (CBD)—for managing neuropathic pain. A 2019 study published in Frontiers in Immunology explored how CBD could reduce inflammation and improve nerve function by modulating immune cells in the peripheral nervous system. The researchers concluded that CBD may be a promising therapy for treating chronic inflammatory conditions like neuropathic pain.
Another 2019 study published in Future Medicine looked at how CBD-based medicines affected patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. After 12 weeks of treatment, the researchers found that CBD was effective in reducing pain levels and improving quality of life measures such as sleep and mood scores, providing evidence that cannabinoids may be an effective form of treatment for diabetes-related neuropathy.
Finally, a 2020 study published in Pain Medicine reported on findings from a clinical trial examining the effects of CBD on people with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). After 8 weeks, participants reported significant improvements in their symptoms compared to baseline measurements; these results suggest that CBD may be an effective form of treatment for CIPN-related pain relief.
CBD as a Therapeutic Option for Individuals with Neuropathic Pain
Overall, scientific studies point to cannabis derivatives as a potential therapeutic option for individuals suffering from neuropathic pain. While more research is needed to better understand the long-term effects and potential risks associated with using cannabis derivatives, these recent findings provide promising insights into their efficacy as a form of treatment. Individuals considering using cannabis derivatives should always seek out a trusted cannabinoid expert and healthcare professional for assistance with selecting the right products.