The use of cannabis as an alternative treatment option for lupus patients has grown in popularity in recent years. As research continues to emerge regarding the potential benefits of cannabis use for lupus patients, more and more people are turning to cannabis as a natural and viable solution for managing the symptoms associated with this chronic autoimmune disease. In this article, we explore the current evidence for the use of cannabis as a potential treatment option for lupus patients and discuss potential benefits and risks associated with its use.
Is there scientific evidence to support the use of CBD for lupus relief?
Yes, there is emerging scientific evidence to suggest that CBD may provide relief for some patients with lupus. A 2019 study found that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with lupus. Additionally, CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective benefits, which may help reduce the neurological side effects of lupus.
What are the potential side effects of using CBD to treat lupus?
The potential side effects of using CBD to treat lupus may include fatigue, nausea, and changes in appetite. It is important to note that CBD can interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with your doctor before trying CBD for lupus treatment. Additionally, CBD may cause drowsiness and dry mouth, so it is important to be aware of these potential side effects as well.
Are there any contraindications or interactions between CBD and other medications for lupus?
Yes, there are potential contraindications and interactions between CBD and other medications for lupus. CBD can interact with certain drugs, such as immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, and certain antidepressants, so it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before combining CBD with any other medications. Additionally, CBD may reduce the effectiveness of medications used to treat lupus, so it is important to monitor your symptoms and adjust your medications accordingly.
What is the potential of cannabis-based treatments for lupus?
Cannabis-based treatments for lupus have the potential to provide many patients with relief from their symptoms. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of cannabis-based medications, such as CBD oil, have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain, while also providing a sense of relaxation and calm. Additionally, the neuroprotective and immunomodulatory properties of cannabis-based treatments could potentially be beneficial for people with lupus.
Are there any safety precautions to consider when using CBD for lupus relief?
Yes, there are some safety precautions to consider when using CBD for lupus relief. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking CBD, as it can interact with other medications and supplements. Additionally, it is important to research the quality and safety of any CBD product you are considering taking, as not all products are created equal. Finally, it is important to use CBD as directed, as taking too much can lead to adverse effects.
Dont miss a thing. Subscribe to email for more resources. Medical marijuana is not approved by the U. Research is just starting to study how it might help manage or treat lupus. People have used the marijuana plant or its extracts for medical purposes for thousands of years. There are also hundreds of synthetic cannabinoid chemicals chemicals that are created in the laboratory that mimic natural cannabinoids. These include the dried plant herb or flower , edibles brownies, cookies, candy , drinkables coffee, tea, lemonade, soda , oils, tinctures which are taken orally , sprays, and topical creams and gels. People have used medical marijuana for a variety of health conditions. The FDA has approved one drug that contains CBD to treat seizures associated with two severe forms of childhood epilepsy. It has also approved three medications containing synthetic cannabinoids that may help treat cancer symptoms or the side effects of cancer therapies. The research for medical marijuana uses have steadily increased. That research suggests that medical marijuana may be helpful in these conditions and symptoms. There is only one currently ongoing study of medical marijuana for lupus. That study is looking at whether a potential new drug made from a synthetic cannabinoid can treat joint pain and swelling inflammation in people with lupus. Several smaller studies of other conditions involving the immune system have reported positive results with lenabasum. If someone with lupus is thinking about trying any alternative treatments or products including medical marijuana they should always talk with their doctor first. Some of these products might not be safe, may interact with medications, or could make symptoms worse. Understanding Lupus. Living with Lupus. Advancing Research. Get Involved. About Us. Donate Become an Advocate. What is lupus? Impact on Daily Life. Ask a Health Educator. Find Support Near You. List of Financial Assistance Resources. Programs and Services. Anyone with lupus. Health care professionals. Newly diagnosed. Find resources. Get answers. Our Work. Get Involved in Research. For Researchers. Research News. Advocacy for Research. Make a Donation Now. Give Monthly. Give In Memory or Honor. Other Ways to Give. Be a Corporate Partner. Shop and Support. Walk to End Lupus Now. Start a Fundraiser. Create a Tribute Page. Livestream to End Lupus. Race to End Lupus. Virtual 6 Challenge. Advocate with Us. Legislative Successes. Spread Awareness. Get Local Support. Join Our Support Community. Shareable Toolkit. Sign Up for Emails. Tell Your Story. Media Relations. Contact Us. Annual Report. National Lupus Partners Network. What is medical marijuana? What is medical marijuana used for? About Synthetic Cannabinoids. Related Resources. Organizational statement on medical marijuana. The Expert Series Complementary and alternative medicines. Was this resource helpful? Yes No. Treating lupus. Last updated April 19, Get lupus resources and updates. Subscribe to our emails. Close Choose a chapter. Lupus Foundation of America. Supporting lupus patients and advocates in Arizona. Serving southern Illinois up to and including Springfield, eastern Kansas, and Missouri. Serving northern and central Illinois. Serving all northern counties in New Jersey, south through Mercer and Ocean counties. Supporting lupus patients and advocates in the Northeast. Close Find a walk.
While possession and use of marijuana is still prohibited by federal law which supersedes state law, 44 states have medical marijuana laws that allow for the use of the drug. Despite these changes, the long prohibition on marijuana has had an impact on research. There have been few studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of marijuana though the existing research and anecdotal evidence suggest there may be value for people living with autoimmune diseases. NOTE Always be aware of federal and state laws before using any substance. NORML, a group working to reform marijuana laws, provides information on state medical marijuana laws. Before checking out the results, click below to take the 1-minute survey and share your experiences with fellow Lupus Warriors! Since people could self-select to participate, it is possible that these numbers to not accurately reflect the usage rates. Still, this survey may give some insights into the habits of people with lupus. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds in the body in both the brain and in the immune system. CBD has made national news in controversial stories about epilepsy, in particular pediatric epilepsy where some research has shown that it can reduce seizures. In contrast to THC tetrahydrocannabinol which has psychotropic properties, CBD does not seem to have any intoxicating effects. Research is being conducted to further examine the effects of the various cannabinoids. Interestingly, some researchers have voiced the need to differentiate CBD from the psychoactive components in future research.