December 05, 2023

Cannabis Benefits Cancer Patients' Sleep and Pain Relief, Study Suggests

A recent observational study involving 25 cancer patients suggests that cannabis use may alleviate pain, improve sleep, and even enhance cognitive function. Despite the positive outcomes noted, experts caution about the study's limitations and the need for further research.

Senior author Angela Bryan from the University of Colorado, Boulder, shared insights, noting that the study discovered unexpected cognitive improvements alongside reduced pain levels following cannabis use among patients.

However, Donald I. Abrams, MD, an uninvolved expert, highlighted the study's small sample size as a limiting factor in terms of impact.

"25 patients is not going to be a major practice changer," Abrams emphasized, questioning the rationale behind the study's size and duration. He further urged future investigations to expand participant numbers and observation periods for comprehensive insights.

Published in Exploration of Medicine, the study focused on patients consuming legally obtained cannabis products in Colorado. It monitored their symptoms, chemotherapy side effects, and cognitive function over a 2-week period.

Results revealed significant improvements in sleep quality and pain intensity among participants, particularly those using higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD). Despite minimal impact on anxiety or depression, patients reported enhanced cognitive clarity after using cannabis.

The study's limitations were flagged, including the small sample size and uncontrolled factors such as participants' selection and dosing of cannabis products.

However, the observed benefits contradicted some previous research findings, particularly regarding CBD's effectiveness. Abrams referenced a recent trial that found no symptom improvement with CBD oil compared to standard palliative care.

Reflecting on the study's insights, Giordano, the lead author, stressed the need for more comprehensive data on cannabis use's potential pros and cons to aid patient and clinician decisions in the future.