A recent study conducted by German researchers has found that inhaling vaporized herbal cannabis can effectively treat neuropathic pain. This type of pain, caused by nerve damage or disease, can be debilitating and is often difficult to treat with traditional medication. The study also revealed that cannabis inhalation can help alleviate sleep problems, a common symptom experienced by many neuropathic pain patients.
Neuropathic pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including diabetes, alcoholism, shingles, and central nervous system disorders. It can also be a side effect of chemotherapy or radiation treatment, amputation, or nerve damage from trauma or surgery. Despite the availability of various medications, many patients still struggle to find relief from their symptoms.
To conduct the study, researchers identified 99 participants with chronic neuropathic pain who had not responded well to other treatments. These participants were prescribed herbal cannabis, which is available in Germany for patients with chronic diseases that have not responded to conventional treatments. The cannabis used in the study had a THC concentration of 12-22%, with most participants using a potency of 16-22%. Patients were instructed to use a vaporizer to inhale the cannabinoids from heated cannabis flowers.
Over a period of six months, participants were given the freedom to choose their own schedule for using cannabis, whether it be on a set schedule, as needed, or during a pain attack. They also had regular video consultations with a physician every four to six weeks. Pain levels were assessed using a scale from 0 to 10, with scores above 6 considered severe and significantly impacting a patient’s quality of life.
The results of the study showed that inhaling vaporized herbal cannabis was an effective treatment for neuropathic pain, with many participants reporting a decrease in pain levels. Additionally, the use of cannabis helped improve sleep for those who experienced sleep disturbances due to their condition.
This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of cannabis as a treatment for chronic pain. With the legalization of medical cannabis in Germany and other countries, more research can be conducted to further understand its potential benefits for those suffering from neuropathic pain.
