Alternative Options for Complex, Recurrent Pain States Using Cannabinoids, Psilocybin, and Ketamine: A Narrative Review of Clinical Evidence
Amber N. Edinoff, Juliana M. Fort, Christina Singh, Sarah Wagner, Jessica R. Rodriguez, Catherine A Johnson, Elyse M. Cornett, Kevin S. Murnane, Adam M. Kaye, Alan D. Kaye
Neurology International May 18, 2022 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint14020035 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractGiven 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.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Patients with chronic pain states |
| Interventions | THC CBD psilocybin |
| Topics | Cannabis CBD Ketamine Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Chronic pain Population |
| Citations | 15 |
| Key finding | THC, CBD, and psilocybin show potential for chronic pain treatment, but existing studies are small and their findings may not generalize to the broader population. |
Abstract
With emerging information about the potential for morbidity and reduced life expectancy with long-term use of opioids, it is logical to evaluate nonopioid analgesic treatments to manage pain states. Combinations of drugs can provide additive and/or synergistic effects that can benefit the management of pain states. In this regard, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) modulate nociceptive signals and have been studied for chronic pain treatment. Psilocybin, commonly known as “magic mushrooms”, works at the serotonin receptor, 5-HT2A. Psilocybin has been found in current studies to help with migraines since it has a tryptamine structure and works similarly to triptans. Psilocybin also has the potential for use in chronic pain treatment. However, the studies that have looked at alternative plant-based medications such as THC, CBD, and psilocybin have been small in terms of their sample size and may not consider the demographic or genetic differences in the population because of their small sample sizes. At present, it is unclear whether the effects reported in these studies translate to the general population or even are significant. In summary, additional studies are warranted to evaluate chronic pain management with alternative and combinations of medications in the treatment of chronic pain.