140 cannabis clinical trials reviewed

A recent medical review conducted by German scientists and published in the journal Critical Reviews in Plant Sciences has identified 140 clinical trials related to cannabis since 1975.

Since 1975, these 140 clinical trials have involved a sample of approximately 8,000 people. They focus primarily on the use of cannabis or cannabinoids in the treatment of chronic or neuropathic pain. Another 35 studies examined pain management using cannabis or cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids have also been studied as antiemetics (anti-vomiting agents) and as appetite stimulants. German scientists have identified 43 clinical studies supporting this, plus 14 trials on the role of cannabis and its derivatives in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

The researchers also identified several other studies on the use of cannabis and cannabinoids for the Crohn's disease, the Tourette's syndrome, Parkinson's disease, glaucoma, epilepsy, and several other diseases.

The U.S. National Academy of Sciences had, in fact, recognized in January have conclusive and substantial evidence regarding the effectiveness of cannabis for patients suffering from chronic pain.

The scientific journal also details the side effects caused by high doses of THC in cannabis-based medications. It explains, however, that interest in CBD has grown in recent years due to its ability to mitigate the side effects caused by THC. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive or euphoric properties, and enhances the medical effects of THC.

Mehdi Bautier