Researchers are shocked at how few studies have been conducted on medical marijuana

A federally funded review of cannabis products highlighted the small number of studies that exist on medicinal cannabis, surprising researchers. Still, the study found some evidence of the plant’s effect on pain management.

The review, conducted by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University and published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, used data from scientifically valid studies, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies. The researchers looked at over 3,000 studies conducted since January this year and found that only 25 studies had scientifically valid evidence.

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya via Unsplash

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While the evidence researchers found on cannabis-assisted pain management was sparse, there were some products that have been linked to short-term pain management, particularly for neuropathic pain. These drugs are dronabinol and nabilone (which contain THC) and nabiximols (a blend of THC and CBD), the first two being FDA approved.

The researchers discussed their findings and shared how surprised they were by the limited amount of research available. “With so much hype surrounding cannabis products and the ready availability of recreational and medical marijuana in many states, consumers and patients might expect that there would be more evidence of the benefits and side effects,” said lead author Marian S. McDonagh. “Unfortunately, there is very little scientifically based research on most of these products.”

“We saw only a small group of observational cohort studies of cannabis products that would be readily available in states that allow it, and these were not designed to answer the important questions about treating chronic pain,” added McDonagh.

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The results of the study show how important it is for the government to encourage cannabis research in any way possible and to provide users with the information they need to stay safe and informed.

“Honestly, the best advice is to talk to your GP about possible treatments for chronic pain,” McDonagh said. “If you want to consider cannabis, you need to talk to your doctor.”

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