CBD and Pain Management
Definitions of Pain

The Pain Pathway and Pain Therapies

Current Pain Medications
Categories of current pain medications include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
- Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol
- Corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone and prednisone
- Opioids, to include natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic
- Muscle relaxants
- Some anti-anxiety drugs
- Some anticonvulsant drugs
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Cannabinoid-based products (cannabinoids, like CBD, may help relieve pain and inflammation)
CBD for Neuropathic and Nociceptive Pain
We discuss neuropathic pain above, which is essentially pain caused by damage or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. The function of the somatosensory nervous system is to interpret bodily sensations, such as touch, pressure, vibration, temperature, and pain. Both the conception and continuation of neuropathic pain is often due to the glutamatergic system. Glutamate is the predominant neurotransmitter in the nervous system, as it is used in more than 90% of synapses. It is a powerful excitatory neurotransmitter that is responsible for sending signals between nerve cells, and under normal conditions, it plays an important role in learning and memory. It is the neuroprotectant qualities of CBD that may inhibit glutamate release, allowing CBD to potentially dull the prickling, tingling, and burning sensations associated with neuropathic pain.
Inflammation is an established root cause of nociceptive pain and becomes problematic when it moves from acute to chronic inflammation. This means the immune system cannot breakdown the irritant or pathogen, or the immune system is malfunctioning by attacking healthy tissue. Research has shown both CB1 and CB2 receptors of the Endocannabinoid System have been found on immune cells, which suggests that cannabinoids could play a critical role in regulating the immune system. Because of this, oral applications of CBD may show effectiveness in relieving chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Additionally, a topical application of CBD may help in relieving localized inflammation and pain. Where CBD and other cannabis-based products separate themselves from other OTC and prescription pain medications is they are safe for prolonged use, meaning they are safe for chronic pain and inflammation. According to a report from the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”

Cannabinoid Options
In short, cannabinoid-based products show great potential for relieving both pain and inflammation. Not only because of the thousands of peer-reviewed scientific publications documenting its therapeutic properties. And not just because cannabis has been used therapeutically for thousands of years. But because patients suffering from acute and chronic pain want and deserve safe, effective, and non-addictive relief.
Questions? Comments? Contact us at [email protected] We’re here to help