Arthritis can cause ongoing joint pain, stiffness and reduced mobility, leading some patients to ask whether medicinal cannabis could help manage their symptoms.
Research is continuing, and medicinal cannabis should not be considered a proven cure for arthritis.
How Might Medicinal Cannabis Help?
Medicinal cannabis products may contain CBD, THC or a combination of both. Researchers have investigated cannabinoids for pain and inflammation, including symptoms associated with chronic conditions.
Some patients may experience improvements in pain or sleep, but responses can vary considerably between individuals.
What Does the Evidence Say?
Current evidence specifically supporting medicinal cannabis for arthritis remains limited.
Much of the available research examines cannabinoids for chronic or neuropathic pain rather than arthritis itself. More high-quality clinical studies are needed to determine which products, doses and patients may benefit.
Possible Side Effects
Depending on the product and dose, possible effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Changes in concentration
- Nausea
THC-containing medicines can also cause impairment and may affect driving.
Discuss Your Existing Treatment
Patients should tell their healthcare practitioner about arthritis medicines, pain medicines, supplements and other treatments they currently use.
Medicinal cannabis should be considered within an overall treatment plan. Do not stop prescribed arthritis medicines or change treatment without professional advice.
A healthcare practitioner can review your symptoms, existing medicines and treatment history before discussing whether medicinal cannabis may be appropriate.
Important: This article provides general educational information and is not medical advice.
