Alternative Options for Complex, Recurrent Pain States Using Cannabinoids, Psilocybin, and Ketamine: A Narrative Review of Clinical Evidence
Neurology International May 18, 2022 Amber N. Edinoff, Juliana M. Fort, Christina Singh et al. 15 citations
Given the risks of long-term opioid use, nonopioid analgesics are being evaluated for chronic pain. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) modulate pain signals and have been studied for chronic pain. Psilocybin, which acts on serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and has a tryptamine structure similar to triptans, shows promise for migraines and potentially chronic pain. However, studies of these plant-based medications have small sample sizes, which may overlook demographic or genetic differences, and it remains unclear whether their reported effects apply to the general population or are statistically significant. Further research is needed.