Medicinal cannabis is becoming an increasingly discussed option for managing chronic pain, but what does it really involve, and who can benefit from it? In this video, Dr. Russo provides an insightful breakdown of the role medicinal cannabis plays in pain management, particularly for those struggling with nerve pain.
Medicinal cannabis refers to extracts from the Cannabis sativa plant, which are used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain. The two primary active ingredients in medicinal cannabis are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These can be mixed in different ratios or used in isolation to create oils tailored to specific treatment needs.
For pain management, CBD oil is often used on its own, while a THC-CBD combination is another common option. The ratio of THC to CBD is key—especially in reducing the side effects typically associated with THC, such as drowsiness and cognitive impairment.
Medicinal cannabis is primarily used for treating nerve pain, particularly for conditions related to the central nervous system, such as pain following a stroke or spinal cord injury. Dr. Russo explains that patients with central pain are more likely to experience positive results compared to those with peripheral nerve pain or conditions like arthritis.
However, medicinal cannabis is not effective for everyone. In fact, Dr. Russo emphasizes that the effectiveness of these treatments varies, and clinical trials show that for some individuals, medicinal cannabis offers only modest relief.
One of the unique aspects of medicinal cannabis is that it can address more than just pain. Aside from potentially alleviating nerve pain, Dr. Russo points out that it may also help with sleep disorders and anxiety. For patients dealing with pain-related insomnia or anxiety, medicinal cannabis can provide a combined solution that treats multiple symptoms simultaneously.
While it is not a cure-all, medicinal cannabis has proven helpful for some patients who may not respond to traditional pain medications. However, it is important to view it as part of a broader treatment plan rather than a standalone solution.
In Australia, medicinal cannabis must be prescribed by a qualified medical practitioner. It is typically trialed over a period of weeks, with patients and doctors assessing whether it provides the desired benefits without significant side effects. Dr. Russo notes that for many, the treatment might not offer lasting relief, and the decision to continue should be made based on the trial’s outcome.