Are cannabinoids an effective and safe treatment option in the management of pain? A qualitative systematic review.
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Campbell, Fiona A; Tramer, Martin R; Carroll, Dawn; Reynolds, D John M; Moore, R Andrew; McQuay, Henry J
- Source
- BMJ: British Medical Journal (International Edition). 7/7/2001, Vol. 323 Issue 7303, Special section p1. 6p. 1 Diagram, 1 Chart.
- Subject
- *MEDICAL marijuana
*PAIN management
*MEDICAL care
*THERAPEUTICS
- Language
- ISSN
- 0959-8146
Conclusion: Cannabinoids are no more effective than codeine in controlling pain and have depressant effects on the central nervous system that limit their use. Their widespread introduction into clinical practice for pain management is therefore undesirable. In acute postoperative pain they should not be used. Before cannabinoids can be considered for treating spasticity and neuropathic pain, further valid randomised controlled studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]