Crohn's disease
Dr. Michael Duplessie, FRCS Ophth (Glasgow), M.B., B.Ch., L.R.C.P. & S.I., B.A.O., B.A.
Crohn’s disease: An overview of cannabis based treatment
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects millions of people worldwide, and many patients turn to cannabis as a potential treatment option. While laboratory studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis, translation to human disease is still lacking. However, the cannabis plant contains numerous cannabinoids that activate the endocannabinoid system, with the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and mostly anti-inflammatory cannabidiol (CBD) being the most abundant.
Approximately 15% of IBD patients use cannabis to alleviate disease symptoms. Despite this, there are currently only three small placebo-controlled studies regarding the use of cannabis in active Crohn’s disease, with a total of only 93 subjects. While two of the studies showed significant clinical improvement, there was no corresponding improvement in inflammation markers.
Cannabis has demonstrated therapeutic potential in IBD and should not be dismissed. However, further research is needed to fully explore its potential. The complexity of the cannabis plant and the diverse range of chemovars make it difficult to conduct research. Randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of various cannabis compounds are essential to advance our understanding of cannabis-based treatments for IBD.
As we continue to unravel the potential of cannabis as a treatment option for IBD, it is crucial that further research is conducted. The promising therapeutic potential of cannabis should not be overlooked, and patients should remain hopeful that with continued investigation, effective and safe treatments will become available.
Medical Marijuana
Safe & Legal
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to breaking conventions and helping those in need. My passion for medicine began during my time working in refugee camps in Thailand, and since then, I have made it my mission to provide care and support to those who need it most.
As a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology, I have made numerous contributions and innovations in the field of corneal transplantation and laser surgery. I am comfortable challenging conventions.
I have seen firsthand the positive impact medical marijuana can have on patients struggling with pain and anxiety.
My experiences have shown me that medical marijuana can offer significant benefits with minimal side effects, providing patients with an alternative to traditional pharmaceutical medications. Despite its potential, the government’s stance on marijuana is outdated and in need of revision.
Through my observations, I have seen prescription rates for pain, stress, insomnia, anxiety to name just a few, drastically decrease among patients who have obtained a medical marijuana card, and I believe that this is a testament to its effectiveness.
