Evaluating the Effectiveness of Medicinal Cannabis for Chronic Pain

As medicinal cannabis becomes increasingly popular in Australia, more individuals are receiving prescriptions to manage chronic pain. This shift follows regulatory changes in 2016 that made access to cannabis-based products more straightforward. These products include various forms like oils, capsules, dried flowers (used in vaporizers), sprays, and edibles, containing naturally occurring cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, or lab-made variants.

Despite the rising number of approvals—over 700,000 since 2016—the actual impact on patient outcomes remains uncertain. Chronic pain, affecting approximately one in five Australians over 45, imposes a significant burden on quality of life, prompting many to explore medicinal cannabis as a treatment option.

Research to date, including a comprehensive 2021 review of 32 randomized controlled trials involving nearly 5,200 participants, indicates that medicinal cannabis offers only modest benefits. The review identified slight reductions in pain and improvements in physical function, but these effects were limited and inconsistent across studies. While some individuals report relief, the average benefits appear to be confined to a smaller subset of users.

Current evidence suggests that medicinal cannabis should mainly be considered within clinical trial settings, as recommended by Australia's Faculty of Pain Medicine, due to limited proof of widespread efficacy. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) emphasizes that medicinal cannabis should be trialed only after standard therapies have been exhausted, with pharmaceutical-grade products deemed safer than inhaled options due to safety concerns.

Patients’ experiences may differ, with some perceiving significant relief, especially when other treatments have failed. However, side effects are common and often mild to moderate, including drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and cognitive slowing. Higher potency THC products tend to cause more pronounced effects. Additionally, potential drug interactions and risks of developing cannabis use disorder warrant cautious use and close medical supervision.

Compared to other treatments like physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and self-management techniques—which have stronger evidence for effectiveness—medicinal cannabis's benefits are relatively modest. Accessibility and affordability barriers further complicate treatment options for many Australians, especially outside urban centers.

In conclusion, while medicinal cannabis may offer relief for some individuals with chronic pain, current evidence underscores the importance of weighing potential benefits against possible risks. Patients are advised to consult healthcare providers knowledgeable about their medical history to explore the most appropriate pain management strategies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-people-medicinal-cannabis-chronic-pain.html