Can CBD Relieve Chronic Pain? Benefits and Risks You Should Know
Chronic pain can make everyday activities such as walking, working, exercising or sleeping difficult, as well as affecting emotional wellbeing. To relieve these symptoms, some people are interested in cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis known for its potential effects on pain.
However, can it really provide relief from the discomfort of chronic pain? Although some studies have produced promising results, there are still doubts about its effectiveness and safety. Furthermore, the effects may vary depending on the type of product and the condition being treated. We explain everything you need to know about it.
What is CBD and how does it work in the body?
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol or CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis use. Its potential for the treatment of chronic pain is linked to its possible influence on the mechanisms that regulate the perception of pain and inflammation.
Part of its activity is linked to the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in functions such as pain perception. Research is also being carried out into how CBD acts on other pathways involved in nerve signal transmission, although its mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood.
In this regard, a review published in the academic journal Pharmaceuticals analysed the evidence on the potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD, particularly in relation to osteoarthritis and neuropathic pain. However, further research is needed to determine in which conditions it might be useful.
Can CBD relieve chronic pain?
When pain persists for weeks or months, finding a way to relieve it can make a huge difference to your daily life. Cannabidiol is being studied as a potential option for this discomfort, which has led to an increase in searches for CBD Oil UK among people who want to find out about its potential uses.
The results of some studies are promising. A review of Pain Management Nursing analysed 15 studies and found that several of them linked the use of CBD to a reduction in pain of between 42 per cent and 66 per cent. These findings suggest that it may have an analgesic effect and help to relieve discomfort in some people.
In the same vein, a review of 74 studies published in Dental and Medical Problems found that medical cannabis had favourable results for various types of chronic pain, including neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain. The authors noted that CBD could be an alternative for some patients when other treatments fail.
What are the risks and side effects of CBD?
Although it is often marketed as a natural product, CBD can cause adverse reactions in some people, such as drowsiness, diarrhoea, changes in appetite and tiredness. In certain circumstances, changes in liver enzyme levels have also been observed.
Another important aspect is drug interactions. CBD can alter the way the body processes certain medicines and change their effects. Furthermore, the actual concentration of cannabidiol and the presence of THC can vary between commercial products.
That is why, although CBD is still being studied for its potential benefits in managing chronic pain, it’s important to remember that it can also cause adverse reactions in some cases. If you’re thinking of trying it, consult a healthcare professional first to assess the risks based on your individual circumstances.
Is it advisable to use CBD for chronic pain?
It depends. Although numerous studies have produced promising results, more scientific evidence is still needed to confirm the effectiveness of CBD in treating chronic pain and determine what doses might be safe and effective.
If you want to start using it, consult your GP so that they can assess your situation and advise you on its potential benefits, risks and interactions with other medicines. Do not start taking it on your own or replace a prescribed treatment with these products.
Bear in mind that CBD may play an important role in the treatment of chronic pain, but its use must be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, the best course of action is to seek professional help to find a treatment that is tailored to the cause of the pain and to each person’s individual needs.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Boyaji, S., Merkow, J., Elman, R. M., Kaye, A. D., Yong, R. J., & Urman, R. D. (2020). The role of cannabidiol (CBD) in chronic pain management: An assessment of current evidence. Current Pain and Headache Reports, 24(2), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-020-0835-4
- Bort, M., Olchowy, C., Olchowy, A., Nawrot-Hadzik, I., Smardz, J., & Więckiewicz, M. (2024). Efficiency of cannabis and cannabidiol in managing chronic pain syndromes: A comprehensive narrative review. Dental and Medical Problems, 61(5), 765–782. https://doi.org/10.17219/dmp/193020
- Cásedas, G., & López, V. (2024). Cannabidiol (CBD): A systematic review of clinical and preclinical evidence in the treatment of pain. Pharmaceuticals, 17(11), Article 1438. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17111438
- Mohammed, S. Y. M., Leis, K., Mercado, R. E., Castillo, M. M. S., Miranda, K. J., & Carandang, R. R. (2024). Effectiveness of cannabidiol to manage chronic pain: A systematic review. Pain Management Nursing, 25(2), e76–e86. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2023.10.002
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.
