Where Does Cannabinoids Stand for Rheumatic Diseases?

The interest in the medical use of cannabis has been growing increasingly, especially with the legalization in numerous states. Clinicians are now using cannabis to help with the nausea and appetite of patients with cancer, as well as the usage of cannabis for diseases like glaucoma. But where does cannabinoids stand in the treatment of various rheumatic diseases? 

#TrendingNow Cannabinoids for the treatment of rheumatic diseases — where do we stand?#cannabinoids #cannabis #rheumaticdisease #treatmenthttps://t.co/8yJJ3zcWTS pic.twitter.com/zplT4kgppA

— NatRevRheumatol (@NatRevRheumatol) June 12, 2018

#Arthritis and #cannabinoids? More #research is needed: https://t.co/pOSfcKGUSo via @NatRevRheumatol

— MAPS Canada (@MAPSCanada) July 1, 2018

When it comes to the pain associated with rheumatic diseases, it is considered to be a prevalent indication for medicinal cannabis in various countries. According to a review in Nature Reviews Rheumatology, the usage of cannabinoids for diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia have been explored. In addition, some preliminary evidence has shown as association between the cannabinoid system and other rheumatic conditions, including systemic sclerosis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. 

Pros and cons. Useful for chronic pain but potential effects of cannabis as an immunomodulatory drug? https://t.co/EiSJH8oLi3 #rheumatology

— Reumatología Clinic (@Reumaclinic) June 11, 2018

The possible usage of cannabis on rheumatic diseases is possibly attributed to how it influences the immune system, but there is not enough evidence to support the recommendation of cannabinoid treatment for rheumatic diseases. “Cannabinoid treatment should not be taken lightly,” the researchers said in key points of the review. “Special consideration and advise are required regarding adverse effects and drug interactions.” 

Check out this article on Cannabis and Fibromyalgia

SOURCE: Nature Reviews Rheumatology