Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain illness that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the condition remains challenging to diagnose and manage effectively. In search of relief, many patients have turned to medical marijuana as an alternative treatment option. With its potential pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, cannabis has gained popularity as a possible remedy for fibromyalgia symptoms. However, concerns linger about its safety and efficacy.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of medical marijuana for fibromyalgia. We’ll explore its potential benefits and risks, the current state of research, and what you need to know before considering cannabis as a treatment for your fibromyalgia symptoms.
Does Medical Marijuana Help Fibromyalgia Symptoms?
Medical marijuana for fibromyalgia pain
Research has been conducted to investigate the use of cannabis for fibromyalgia pain, and several studies have yielded promising results. For example, Nabilone, a synthetic cannabinoid, was more efficient at relieving pain than a placebo in a trial involving 40 patients conducted in 2007. Similar results were found in a 2011 study that polled 28 people with fibromyalgia who smoked cannabis. Of them, roughly 43% experienced significant pain relief, 43% had minor relief, and 7% reported no change in their pain symptoms.
Another 2018 study investigated the pain-relieving effects of four distinct cannabis strains, each with variable concentrations of THC and CBD, among 20 fibromyalgia patients. According to the study, those who received treatments with high THC concentrations saw a rise in their pain threshold compared to those who received placebos, but those who received formula with CBD but no THC did not experience any discernible pain alleviation. However, further research is needed to assess the usefulness of medical cannabis for fibromyalgia pain.
Medical marijuana for fibromyalgia sleep issues
According to a comprehensive review of the health effects of cannabis published by the National Academies Press (NAP) in 2017, there is a moderate amount of evidence suggesting that cannabis-related products may help improve sleep in people with fibromyalgia in the short term. Additionally, a 2011 study found that 81 percent of participants who used cannabis to treat fibromyalgia reported substantial relief from sleep issues.
Further research on the effects of nabilone, a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of cannabis, found that it improved sleep in people with fibromyalgia in a 2010 study. Although more clinical studies are needed to come to any solid conclusions about the effectiveness of cannabis in treating sleep issues associated with fibromyalgia, the evidence so far suggests that it may be a promising option for those struggling with sleep disturbances. If you’re considering using medical marijuana to alleviate your fibromyalgia sleep issues, be sure to speak with your doctor first to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
Are there any risks when using medical marijuana for fibromyalgia?
Like any medication or treatment, medical marijuana for fibromyalgia carries some risks. While it can help alleviate symptoms for some patients, there are also potential short-term side effects.
These side effects can include changes in perception, mood swings, confusion, impaired movement, impaired concentration, and impaired memory. In some cases, high doses of cannabis can even trigger hallucinations and delusions in young adults and adolescents with a known family history of schizophrenia or psychosis.
It’s worth noting that ongoing research is still investigating the long-term risks associated with daily or frequent cannabis use. As such, it is important for patients to carefully weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of using medical marijuana for fibromyalgia in consultation with their healthcare provider.
We’re Here to Help!
If you’re tired of the endless cycle of pain and discomfort caused by fibromyalgia, a natural solution may be waiting for you. Medical marijuana for fibromyalgia has been gaining attention for its potential to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
At Pause Pain & Wellness, we understand the impact that chronic pain can have on your daily life, and we’re here to help. Contact us today at 833-940-5060 to schedule an appointment or renew your card and take the first step towards a more comfortable life.