CAN CBD WORK AS A PAIN KILLER?

CBD (cannabidiol) is being investigated as a possible additional treatment for pain complaints. Chronic pain is often treated with regular painkillers, which can be effective, but also have side effects. This blog discusses the current scientific insights into the role of CBD in pain management.

This blog is intended as a neutral summary of scientific insights into CBD and pain management. No products are promoted. The sources used are as independent and peer-reviewed as possible.

How CBD works

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the many cannabinoids that occur in the hemp plant. Other well-known cannabinoids include CBG, CBC and THC. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive effect. CBD appears to influence certain processes in the body via the endocannabinoid system (ECS), including pain perception, mood and inflammatory responses.

The ECS plays a role in maintaining balance in the body. CBD can bind to receptors within this system, which may lead to a changed sensitivity to pain stimuli. In this way, CBD can contribute to the modulation of pain signals.

Dosage forms of CBD

CBD is available in various forms, including oil, capsules, crystals, hash and edibles. CBD oil is popular because of its easy administration under the tongue, which ensures relatively fast absorption. The most suitable form depends on personal preference, ease of use and medical conditions.

CBD for migraine?

There is still limited clinical research available on the use of CBD for migraine. Preliminary indications suggest that CBD may relieve muscle and joint pain that sometimes accompanies migraine attacks. There is also a hypothesis about a link between migraines and a deficiency of the body's own cannabinoids, a condition called Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CECD).

Dr. Ethan Russo, affiliated with the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute, has written papers on this subject. In a 2016 study examined cerebrospinal fluid from migraine patients. The results showed abnormalities in levels of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that influences pain and mood. While these findings are interesting, additional research is needed to confirm a direct link between CBD and migraine treatment.

CBD in arthritis

In a preclinical research from 2016 examined the effects of CBD in rats with arthritis. The animals were given topical CBD gel at various dosages. The results showed that joint swelling decreased and pain scores improved, with no side effects reported.

The researchers concluded that CBD has potential as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent for conditions such as arthritis. It is important to note that this study was conducted in animals; confirmation in humans requires additional clinical research.

Considerations for Using CBD

While some studies suggest that CBD may have positive effects on pain, its effectiveness has not been proven for all types of pain. The side effects of CBD seem to be limited and mild (such as fatigue and decreased appetite), but interactions with other medications are possible.

Are you considering using CBD as a complementary treatment? Always consult a doctor first, especially if you are taking medication or are under medical treatment. CBD can affect the effects of certain medications.l;nfluences.

Scientific evidence

Several studies have looked at the effect of CBD on pain relief. An animal study published in the European Journal of Pain (Hammell et al., 2016) showed that topical application of CBD gel could reduce inflammation and pain in rats with arthritis [Source].

In addition, a review study by Dr. Ethan Russo (2016) noted a possible link between endocannabinoid deficiencies and conditions such as migraines [Source].

A 2024 systematic review published in the journal Pharmaceuticals examined both animal and human studies on the use of CBD for pain management:

“Based on the review conducted, there is sufficient clinical and preclinical evidence that CBD may be an effective and safe treatment for reducing pain, due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. These effects appear to be primarily mediated through activation of TRPV-1, 5HT-1A, and CB1 receptors. CBD has shown particular potential in conditions such as osteoarthritis and chronic pain. However, it is emphasized that current clinical evidence is still limited and that more studies are needed with isolated CBD.” — Cásedas et al., 2024, Pharmaceuticals
Link to source (English)

Harvard Health Publishing – Harvard Medical School
Article: "Cannabidiol (CBD) – what we know and what we don’t"
Author: Dr. Peter Grinspoon, M.D. – physician and instructor at Harvard Medical School.

Disclaimer:
The information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. CBD is not a medical treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or questions. CBD is not recommended for pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, the elderly with complex medication profiles, and people with chronic conditions such as liver or kidney problems, unless this has been discussed with a physician. In these groups, the effects or interactions with medication may be stronger or less predictable.  Never use CBD or other supplements without consulting a physician if you are taking medication or are undergoing treatment.