CBD For Cancer Pain – Side Effects, Dosage & Precaution

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of the active ingredients, among the 100 others, found in marijuana or cannabis.

This compound is extracted from the hemp plant, a close relative of cannabis. However, this compound is different from others that you derive from cannabis.

CBD does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Hence people who consume CBD would not experience any sense of euphoria.

The THC in cannabis gives us a sense of euphoria by affecting the endocannabinoid receptors. CBD supports the use of endocannabinoids effectively.

Few anecdotal evidence and preliminary research point out that CBD might have the potential to treat conditions like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, dementia, nerve and muscle pain, weight loss, etc.

CBD is available in markets in many forms, including, capsules, patches, vapes, oils etc.

Is CBD Good For Pain?

Many people have reported relief from pain, anxiety depression, and sleeping disorders etc with the use of CBD oil.

However, we cannot say for sure because the studies in this field are really limited.

There are various restrictions imposed on the use and research of cannabis and related compounds.

CBD is said to boost the quantity of anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid. Anandamide is named after the Sanskrit term ‘Anand’ which translates to internal bliss.

When the human body senses pain, this anandamide attaches itself to CB-1 and reduces the pain by blocking the signal.

However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not agreed upon using CBD for treating pain.

The only cannabis-derived CBD prescription approved by the FDA is Epidolex.

It is an oral solution advised for treating 2 rare forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and Dravet syndrome, in patients of age 2 years or older.

This is the first FDA Approved drug used for the treatment of people with Dravet Syndrome.

CBD for Cancer

As said before research and studies are very limited to conclude whether CBD helps to cure cancer.

A few studies observed very promising results. However, CBD might help with various symptoms of cancer and some of the side effects of its treatment.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has revealed the possibility and advantages of CBD as an option to help with reducing side effects that one undergoes from chemotherapy like lack of appetite, vomiting, and severe pain.

CBD is also believed to complement cancer treatment, and again, experts have mixed opinions on this topic.

Treating cancer can be quite a painful experience. This pain can be caused due to pressure on internal organs, nerve injuries, or inflammation.

When the pain levels are soo high, usual pain relievers like opioids can be ineffective.

In such situations, CBD might be able to deliver relief from pain by blocking the receptors.

Related:- How Can CBD Help With Nerve Pain? | Is It Effective?

It also might help with soothing inflammation, as CBD is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

Side Effects Of CBD

There are not many significant or dangerous risks reported from using CBD. Most topical CBD products do not even enter the bloodstream. A few minor side effects observed are:

Some studies have suggested the possibility of CBDs interaction with certain medications might result in liver damage.

But the risk is primarily associated with high levels of consumption of CBD.

Hence if someone is trying to include CBD in their routine, make it a point to consult your medical practitioner and ensure it’s safe for consumption.

There is a possibility of CBD interacting with some medications like:

Dosage

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not regulating CBD for most conditions.

Hence the dosages are not strictly mentioned anywhere and are open for interpretation.

Related:- Pros And Cons Of CBD Oil For Pain – Is There Any Side Effects?

So if anyone wishes to take this compound, then make sure to consult your doctor to determine the effective dosage.

FDA has approved a form of CBD for special cases of epilepsy which is also instructed to be taken at the doctor’s discretion.

Precaution

Your doctors might not promote the use of CBD if you:

Conclusion

There is a lack of strong studies and research to form a conclusive opinion.

CBD might be able to offer pain relief without causing drug intoxication and dependence.

If you would like to try CBD then make sure to visit a doctor and discuss your options.