Medical cannabis linked to reduced opioid use in cancer patients

Patients were split into groups of early cannabis use, versus delayed start cannabis use.

The early group obtained three months of medical cannabis through a state program at no charge, while those in the delayed start group received standard oncology care without cannabis for the first three months. 

A higher proportion of patients who began treatment with medical cannabis achieved a reduction in opioid use and improved pain control than the second group. 

Authors concluded: “The addition of MC to standard oncology care was well-tolerated and may lead to improved pain control and lower opioid requirements. Conducting larger RCTs with MC in state-sponsored programs may guide oncology providers on how to safely and effectively incorporate MC for interested patients.”

It follows data published at the end of last year, which found that the majority of gynecologic oncology patients reported medical cannabis products were either as effective or more effective than prescription medications at mitigating symptoms of cancer and cancer-related treatments.

Earlier studies have also found that medical cannabis has been “well tolerated” and “effective” in helping patients cope with cancer-related symptoms.