Inhaled cannabis has demonstrated the ability to alleviate the painful symptoms of headaches and migraines, according to a self-reported study conducted by researchers. The findings, published in the Journal of Pain, reveal that participants experienced a reduction in headache severity by 49.6 percent and migraine severity by 47.3 percent after inhaling cannabis.
The study involved more than 1,300 participants who were asked to track their symptoms using a medical cannabis app before and after using different strains and doses of cannabis. This real-time data collection from headache and migraine patients is a novel approach, marking the first study of its kind.
Analysis of the collected data revealed several interesting trends. Men reported larger reductions in headaches compared to women, and the use of cannabis concentrates was associated with greater headache reduction compared to the use of flower.
Pain management is one of the primary reasons for accessing medical cannabis, as supported by existing literature. While scientific research on marijuana’s efficacy for pain treatment is limited, a comprehensive review conducted in 2017 concluded that there is sufficient evidence to support its use for chronic pain management.
Additionally, a clinical trial conducted in 2012 found that cannabis (in synthetic form) was more effective than ibuprofen in alleviating headaches, reducing pain intensity, and improving quality of life.
As lead author Carrie Cuttler explains, this study aimed to address the lack of research on cannabis use for headaches and migraines. By examining real-world usage in patients’ own homes and environments, the researchers aimed to provide ecologically valid data that can be generalized to a larger population.
However, there are limitations to consider. Patients in the study showed an increase in their cannabis doses over time, suggesting possible tolerance development. Furthermore, there was no placebo group assigned, and conclusions were derived from participants’ subjective accounts rather than objective testing. It’s also worth noting that the patient sample likely included individuals who already find cannabis effective for pain relief, potentially leading to overestimations of its effectiveness.
Cuttler hopes that this research will encourage further placebo-controlled trials. In the meantime, the study provides valuable information for medical cannabis patients and their doctors regarding the potential benefits of cannabis in managing headaches and migraines.
