Cannabis has been a large focal point regarding medicinal alternatives, especially for nerve pain. Chronic neuropathic pain is a condition caused by damage to the nerves.

It can develop into consequential symptoms, like negatively impacting one’s quality of life, sleep disruption and restricted mobility.

Furthermore, those who suffer from chronic nerve pain do not receive great results from pharmaceutical solutions, which explains the increased demand for cannabis-based medicine.

However, clinical trials found in a paper published by the Cochrane Library state that there is “no clear proof that cannabis-based medicines effectively relieve chronic neuropathic pain.”

There were 21 studies with roughly 2,100 adults as participants. In these trials, there were three test groups: one involving THC-dominant medicines, another CBD-dominant and a third with a mixture of both.

The control group received placebo treatments to determine if there was any significant difference, which was measured as 50% or more pain relief. 

Researchers found that all three groups experienced no significant change in pain relief when compared to the placebo treatments given.

The third group, which received products containing THC and CBD, experienced minimal nerve pain relief but did not meet the threshold of improvement.

The researchers discovered an increase in side effects like dizziness and drowsiness among the group that was administered THC.

Scientists led by Roger Chou at the Oregon Health & Science University stated that there was “limited short-term benefit for chronic pain” and “increased risk of adverse effects” from cannabis alternatives.

However, the researchers at Cochrane agreed that more rigorous studies are required to determine a more conclusive answer on the benefits and side effects of cannabis-based medicine.

These studies were only conducted over a short time frame and lacked a sufficient sample size. Researchers strongly recommend that future studies span 12 weeks or longer and more participants. Additionally, the individuals chosen should have a known history of physical illnesses as well as mental health conditions.