Medical Cannabis: A Safe and Effective Tool For Chronic Pain

By Sharron Sample

For most patients, medical cannabis has proven to be an effective and safe tool for chronic pain.
One of the significant advantages is its potential to provide relief from chronic pain with minimal side effects. Traditional pain medications, like opioids, can lead to addiction and a range of adverse reactions. In contrast, medical cannabis is non-addictive and has a lower risk of dependency with fewer side effects. Some patients find it to be a viable alternative, especially when other treatments have proven ineffective.

Medical cannabis’ effectiveness varies from person to person, and it may not be a guaranteed solution for everyone. However, it can be particularly beneficial for conditions such as neuropathic pain, arthritis, and cancer-related pain. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers and dispensary experts to determine the most suitable treatment plan, including appropriate strains, dosages, and delivery methods.

The Connection Between Medical Cannabis and Opioid Use

The relationship between medical cannabis and opioid use has been well-documented in recent research. Paul Armentano, the Deputy Director of NORML, notes that scientific evidence suggests that marijuana is a relatively safe and effective pain reliever. Moreover, studies indicate that patients with legal access to medical cannabis consistently reduce their reliance on prescription opioid medications.

Recent research published in the same journal revealed that approximately one in three chronic pain patients incorporate cannabis into their pain management regimen, often using it as a substitute for opioids. This suggests that for many individuals, medical cannabis is a viable alternative to traditional pain medications.

Medical cannabis is a relatively safe and effective tool to include in a comprehensive overall health and pain management plan.