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Maglaviceanu A, Peer M, Rockel J, Bonin RP, Fitzcharles MA, Ladha KS, Bhatia A, Leroux T, Kotra L, Kapoor M, Clarke H. The State of Synthetic Cannabinoid Medications for the Treatment of Pain. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:597-612. [PMID: 38951463 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01098-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cannabinoids are compounds made in the laboratory to structurally and functionally mimic phytocannabinoids from the Cannabis sativa L. plant, including delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) can signal via the classical endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) and the greater endocannabidiome network, highlighting their signalling complexity and far-reaching effects. Dronabinol and nabilone, which mimic THC signalling, have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy and/or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, there is ongoing interest in these two drugs as potential analgesics for a variety of other clinical conditions, including neuropathic pain, spasticity-related pain, and nociplastic pain syndromes including fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and postoperative pain, among others. In this review, we highlight the signalling mechanisms of FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoids, discuss key clinical trials that investigate their analgesic potential, and illustrate challenges faced when bringing synthetic cannabinoids to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Maglaviceanu
- Division of Orthopaedics, Osteoarthritis Research Program, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Miki Peer
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, University Health Network, Sinai Health System, and Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jason Rockel
- Division of Orthopaedics, Osteoarthritis Research Program, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert P Bonin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Department of Rheumatology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Karim S Ladha
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anuj Bhatia
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto Western Hospital-University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Timothy Leroux
- Division of Orthopaedics, Osteoarthritis Research Program, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lakshmi Kotra
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohit Kapoor
- Division of Orthopaedics, Osteoarthritis Research Program, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hance Clarke
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Centre for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Transitional Pain Service, Pain Research Unit, Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada.
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Chahyadinata G, Nam JH, Battenberg A, Wainger BJ. Physiological profiling of cannabidiol reveals profound inhibition of sensory neurons. Pain 2024:00006396-990000000-00614. [PMID: 38815194 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Cannabidiol (CBD), the main nonpsychoactive cannabinoid of cannabis, holds promise for nonaddictive treatment of pain. Although preclinical studies have been encouraging, well-controlled human trials have been largely unsuccessful. To investigate this dichotomy and better understand the actions of CBD, we used high-content calcium imaging with automated liquid handling and observed broad inhibition of neuronal activation by a host of ionotropic and metabotropic receptors, including transient receptor potential (Trp) and purinergic receptors, as well as mediators of intracellular calcium cycling. To assess the effect of CBD on overall nociceptor electrical activity, we combined the light-activated ion channel channelrhodposin in TRPV1-positive nociceptors and a red-shifted calcium indicator and found that 1 µM CBD profoundly increased the optical threshold for calcium flux activation. Experiments using traditional whole-cell patch-clamp showed increase of nociceptor activation threshold at submicromolar concentrations, but with unusually slow kinetics, as well as block of voltage-activated currents. To address a more integrated capacity of CBD to influence nociceptor sensitization, a process implicated in multiple pain states, we found that submicromolar concentrations of CBD inhibited sensitization by the chemotherapeutic drug vincristine. Taken together, these results demonstrate that CBD can reduce neuronal activity evoked by a strikingly wide range of stimuli implicated in pain signaling. The extensive effects underscore the need for further studies at substantially lower drug concentrations, which are more likely to reflect physiologically relevant mechanisms. The slow kinetics and block raise biophysical questions regarding the lipophilic properties of CBD and its action on channels and receptors within membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracesenia Chahyadinata
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Joo Hyun Nam
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Physiology, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ashley Battenberg
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Brian J Wainger
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Broad Institute of Harvard University and MIT, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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3
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Hopkins MA, McGuire BE, Finn DP. Targeting the endocannabinoid system for the management of low back pain. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 75:102438. [PMID: 38401317 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a major unmet clinical need. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for pain, including LBP. This review examines the evidence for the ECS as a therapeutic target for LBP. While preclinical studies demonstrate the potential of the ECS as a viable therapeutic target, clinical trials have presented conflicting findings. This review underscores the need for innovative LBP treatments and biomarkers and proposes the ECS as a promising avenue for their exploration. A deeper mechanistic understanding of the ECS in LBP could inform the development of new pain management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary A Hopkins
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Brian E McGuire
- Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; School of Psychology, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland; Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland.
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4
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Desalegn M, Shitemaw T, Getahun GK, Lemma L. Parental knowledge and attitude of postoperative paediatric pain: stepwise linear regression analysis. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2024; 5:1340375. [PMID: 38577246 PMCID: PMC10993867 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2024.1340375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the fact that mothers care for their children's pain in most cases, it has been noted that mothers have limited knowledge and attitude about paediatric pain. This study aims to assess parental knowledge and attitude of postoperative paediatric pain (POPP). Method This is institutional based cross sectional study conducted with 102 parents at Nigist Eleni Mohamed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (NEMMCSH). A convenience sampling technique was used to select parents. This study has used a questionnaire (Parental Pain Expression Perception (PPEM), examine parents' attitudes and knowledge about how their children exhibit their pain and Medication Attitude Questioner (MAQs), focuses on how parents feel about giving their child analgesic medication to alleviate post-operative pain). Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyse the parent's response and presented with frequency and percentage. Factor analysis to analyze factor structure and stepwise linear regression analysis to examine the impact of socio-demographic factors in predicting parental knowledge and attitude about POPP were done. The statistical tests were performed at 95% confidence interval and 5% significance level. Result A total of 102 parents fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included. About 78% of parents agreed that children always express pain by crying or whining. The majority of parents (75.6%) believe children who are playing are not in pain. Regarding parental attitudes about pain medications, majority of parents (61%) believe that children should be given pain medication as little as possible because of its side effects. According to about 26.8% of parents, giving children pain medication for pain might teach them to use drugs for other issues. On the other hand, 63.4% of parents say that giving children pain medication as little as possible is the most effective way to manage their pain. Parents of younger children and parents from rural area are more likely to score higher in attention seeking sub-score of PPEP while parents from urban residence and those parents who are employed are more likely to perceive about the side effects of pain medications (Side effects factors). Conclusion The overall knowledge and attitude of parents about postoperative pain and pain medications were poor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitiku Desalegn
- Department of Anesthesia, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
| | | | - Genanew Kassie Getahun
- Department of Public Health, Menelik II Medical and Health Science College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lire Lemma
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia
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5
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Hidding U, Mainka T, Buhmann C. Therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurological diseases: a clinical update. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:117-126. [PMID: 38015317 PMCID: PMC10791790 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02719-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The use of medical Cannabis has increased in recent years due to changing legal circumstances in many countries. Approval exists only for a few neurological conditions such as rare forms of epilepsy or spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Beyond that, however, medical Cannabis is used for a wide range of neurological conditions and symptoms. In Germany, in parallel with new legislation that has simplified the prescription of medical Cannabis, an accompanying survey has been implemented for which initial data are now available. In this context, our review provides an overview of the evidence for the therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurology, the potential benefits, and side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ute Hidding
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tina Mainka
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology at the Charité, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Clinician Scientist Program, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Buhmann
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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De Clifford-Faugère G, Nguena Nguefack HL, Godbout-Parent M, Diallo MA, Guénette L, Gabrielle Pagé M, Choinière M, Harden RN, Beaudoin S, Boulanger A, Pinard AM, Lussier D, De Grandpré P, Deslauriers S, Lacasse A. The Medication Quantification Scale 4.0: An Updated Index Based on Prescribers' Perceptions of the Risk Associated With Chronic Pain Medications. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2024; 25:508-521. [PMID: 37838346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2023.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
To quantify risks associated with drug utilization in the real world for the treatment of chronic pain (CP), an index called the Medication Quantification Scale (MQS) was developed in 1992 in the United States and last updated in 2003. This study aimed to update, adapt to the contemporary Canadian context, and validate a revised version of the MQS (the MQS-4.0). Step 1: An expert committee adapted the MQS to the Canadian clinical practice context. Step 2: An update of risk weights given to medication subclasses was achieved using a prescriber survey (weights were derived from median 0-10 scores given to each subclass). Step 3: Construct validity of the MQS-4.0 was assessed after applying risk weights to the medication use profile of persons living with CP covered by public drug insurance plan. Thirty-six medication subclasses were included in the MQS-4.0. A total of 207 prescribers (physicians, pharmacists, and nurse practitioners) participated in the perception survey; 10.63% identified as pain specialists. When risk weights were applied to prescription claims (n = 9,122), the MQS-4.0 score was associated (P < .05) with the MQS-III score and variables associated with polypharmacy (eg, Charlson Comorbidity Index, number of prescribers or health care visits). This study provides an updated index intended for adult populations based on prescribers' perceptions of the risk associated with CP medications that can be useful for clinical practice and research among persons living with CP in Canada. It will, however, be relevant to verify whether similar risk weights are obtained in future pain specialist surveys. PERSPECTIVE: The MQS-4.0 is an update of the MQS used for quantifying the risk associated with the use of analgesics/coanalgesics. Adequate psychometrics properties were found.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marimée Godbout-Parent
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mamadou Aliou Diallo
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
| | - Line Guénette
- Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - M Gabrielle Pagé
- Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Manon Choinière
- Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert Norman Harden
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Department of Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sylvie Beaudoin
- Person with lived experience, Chronic Pain Epidemiology Chair, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
| | - Aline Boulanger
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Pain Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anne Marie Pinard
- Pain Clinic, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada; Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - David Lussier
- Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Philippe De Grandpré
- Familiprix Chantale Gaboury & Marie-Ève Gélinas, Berthierville, Québec, Canada; Groupe de Médecine Familiale Clinique Familiale des Prairies, Notre-Dame-des-Prairies, Québec, Canada
| | - Simon Deslauriers
- VITAM - Centre de Recherche en Santé Durable, CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Anaïs Lacasse
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
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7
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Hong G, Sideris A, Waldman S, Stauffer J, Wu CL. Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Medical Cannabis in the United States. Anesth Analg 2024; 138:31-41. [PMID: 38100798 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000006301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Federal and state laws in the United States governing the use of cannabis are rapidly evolving. Under federal law, marijuana and its derivatives remain schedule I, defined as substances having no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Hemp and its derivatives, in contrast, have been removed from schedule I. At the state level, a majority of states have passed laws legalizing cannabis in some form, although these laws vary from state to state in terms of the extent to which use is permitted, approved medical uses, and the types of regulation placed on commercial activity and quality control. This inconsistency has contributed to uncertainty among medical providers and their patients. In this review, we provide a brief account of the evolution and current state of federal and state laws and regulatory agencies involved in overseeing medical cannabis use in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genewoo Hong
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Alexandra Sideris
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Seth Waldman
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Joe Stauffer
- Alta Life Sciences, LLC, Sarasota, Florida
- Antibe Therapeutics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher L Wu
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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Slivicki RA, Wang JG, Nhat VTT, Kravitz AV, Creed MC, Gereau RW. Impact of Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and oxycodone co-administration on measures of antinociception, dependence, circadian activity, and reward in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.04.569809. [PMID: 38105953 PMCID: PMC10723318 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.04.569809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Oxycodone is commonly prescribed for moderate to severe pain disorders. While efficacious, long-term use can result in tolerance, physical dependence, and the development of opioid use disorder. Cannabis and its derivatives such as Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) have been reported to enhance oxycodone analgesia in animal models and in humans. However, it remains unclear if Δ9-THC may facilitate unwanted aspects of oxycodone intake, such as tolerance, dependence, and reward at analgesic doses. This study sought to evaluate the impact of co-administration of Δ9-THC and oxycodone across behavioral measures related to antinociception, dependence, circadian activity, and reward in both male and female mice. Oxycodone and Δ9-THC produced dose-dependent antinociceptive effects in the hotplate assay that were similar between sexes. Repeated treatment (twice daily for 5 days) resulted in antinociceptive tolerance. Combination treatment of oxycodone and Δ9-THC produced a greater antinociceptive effect than either administered alone, and delayed the development of antinociceptive tolerance. Repeated treatment with oxycodone produced physical dependence and alterations in circadian activity, neither of which were exacerbated by co-treatment with Δ9-THC. Combination treatment of oxycodone and Δ9-THC produced CPP when co-administered at doses that did not produce preference when administered alone. These data indicate that Δ9-THC may facilitate oxycodone-induced antinociception without augmenting certain unwanted features of opioid intake (e.g. dependence, circadian rhythm alterations). However, our findings also indicate that Δ9-THC may facilitate rewarding properties of oxycodone at therapeutically relevant doses which warrant consideration when evaluating this combination for its potential therapeutic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A. Slivicki
- Washington University Pain Center and Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Justin G. Wang
- Washington University Pain Center and Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Division of Biology & Biomedical Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Vy Trinh Tran Nhat
- Washington University Pain Center and Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Alexxai V. Kravitz
- Washington University Pain Center and Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Meaghan C. Creed
- Washington University Pain Center and Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Robert W. Gereau
- Washington University Pain Center and Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
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9
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Parnell J, Martin N, Dedek A, Rudyk C, Landrigan J, Bellavance J, VanDerLoo S, Tsai EC, Hildebrand ME. Cannabinoid CB1 Receptor Expression and Localization in the Dorsal Horn of Male and Female Rat and Human Spinal Cord. Can J Pain 2023; 7:2264895. [PMID: 38170158 PMCID: PMC10761112 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2023.2264895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that cannabis has potential analgesic properties. However, cannabinoid receptor expression and localization within spinal cord pain processing circuits remain to be characterized across sex and species. Aims We aimed to investigate the differential expression of the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor across dorsal horn laminae and cell populations in male and female adult rats and humans. Methods To investigate and quantify CB1 receptor expression in the spinal dorsal horn across species, we refined immunohistochemical procedures for successful rat and human fixed tissue staining and confocal imaging. Immunohistochemical results were complemented with analysis of CB1 gene (CNR1) expression within rodent and human dorsal horn using single-cell/nuclei RNA sequencing data sets. Results We found that CB1 was preferentially localized to the neuropil within the superficial dorsal horn of both rats and humans, with CB1 somatic staining across dorsal horn laminae. CB1 receptor immunoreactivity was significantly higher in the superficial dorsal horn compared to the deeper dorsal horn laminae for both rats and humans, which was conserved across sex. Interestingly, we found that CB1 immunoreactivity was not primarily localized to peptidergic afferents in rats and humans and that CNR1 (CB1) but not CNR2 (CB2) was robustly expressed in dorsal horn neuron subpopulations of both rodents and humans. Conclusions The conserved preferential expression of CB1 receptors in the superficial dorsal horn in male and female rodents and humans has significant implications for understanding the roles of this cannabinoid receptor in spinal mechanisms of nociception and analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Parnell
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Neuroscience Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Newton Martin
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Annemarie Dedek
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Neuroscience Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Rudyk
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Landrigan
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Justin Bellavance
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Simon VanDerLoo
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eve C. Tsai
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Neuroscience Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael E. Hildebrand
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Neuroscience Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Arendt Nielsen L, Belton J, Cardosa M. Beyond the study of pain: the evolving role of the International Association for the Study of Pain in global advocacy. Pain 2023; 164:S22-S26. [PMID: 37831956 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Although founded on the basis of the study of pain, the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) has actively advocated for improving pain relief and access to pain management in a variety of ways. The Global Year was launched in 2004 and has continued with a different theme each year, and "Pain Awareness Month" is held every September. The Declaration of Montreal (2010) emphasized that access to pain management is a fundamental human right as a result from the IASP-hosted International Pain Summit. The IASP has continued to publish timely statements related to pain and pain management. The work of IASP on the 11th version of the International Classification of Disease has ensured that chronic pain is recognized as a disease in its own right, and the establishment of the Global Alliance of Partners for Pain Advocacy Task Force recognizes the importance of engaging people with lived experience of pain in accomplishing IASP's mission. The Working Group on Global Advocacy now spearheads IASP's global efforts in capacity building to ensure that pain advocacy activities will continue to grow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Arendt Nielsen
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), Department of Health Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Aalborg University, Gistrup, Denmark
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mech-Sense, Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center North Denmark, Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
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11
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Soyannwo O, Chaudakshetrin P, Garcia JB. The value of the International Association for the Study of Pain to developing countries. Pain 2023; 164:S39-S42. [PMID: 37831959 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Since it was founded, the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) has been at the forefront of improving pain research, education, and effective pain management in both developed and developing countries. As IASP activities progressed, major differences between the practice of pain management, education, and research in developed countries compared with developing countries were identified. This led to areas of focus by IASP that included pain education to address poor knowledge of pain assessment and treatment, prioritization of pain management by governments and official national legislation and programs, and availability of pain treatments (especially potent analgesics). A few pioneering IASP members from developing countries in the early years encouraged more multidisciplinary professionals to join IASP and attend conferences. Inauguration of national and regional chapters was also encouraged, and regular continuing medical education programs were held, especially on topics from IASP conferences and global pain events. Many IASP chapters in developing countries have established collaborations with groups from developed countries, whereas IASP also implemented other innovative approaches including the developing countries working group, educational grants, pain camps, and multidisciplinary pain hubs with toolkits to develop pain experts for regions in the developing world. Thus, the influence of IASP in many developing countries has had a multiplier effect on the progress made in effective pain management, education, and research. Nonetheless, challenges remain and include better integration of pain management, education, and research in national health systems and academic programs for health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaitan Soyannwo
- Centre for Palliative Care Nigeria, Room T2, Institute for Advance Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Pongparadee Chaudakshetrin
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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12
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De Clifford-Faugère G, Nguena Nguefack HL, Godbout-Parent M, Diallo MA, Guénette L, Pagé MG, Choinière M, Beaudoin S, Boulanger A, Pinard AM, Lussier D, De Grandpré P, Deslauriers S, Lacasse A. Pain Medications Used by Persons Living With Fibromyalgia: A Comparison Between the Profile of a Quebec Sample and Clinical Practice Guidelines. Can J Pain 2023; 7:2252037. [PMID: 38025837 PMCID: PMC10653640 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2023.2252037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Pharmacological management of fibromyalgia is complex. Chronic pain management is characterized by off-label prescribing and use, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy. Aims This study aimed to describe pain medications use and perceived risk among people living with fibromyalgia and compare this use to evidence-based recommendations. Methods Directive telephone interviews were conducted with 63 individuals self-reporting a diagnosis of fibromyalgia (Quebec, Canada). The questionnaire addressed specific questions about their pain and pharmacological treatments currently used for pain management (prescribed and over-the-counter). Collected data were compared to the Canadian Fibromyalgia Clinical Practice Guidelines and to evidence reports published by recognized organizations. Results Despite a lack of robust scientific evidence to support opioids use to manage pain in fibromyalgia, 33% of our sample reported using them. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were used by 54.0% of participants, although this medication is not recommended due to lack of efficacy. Tramadol, which is recommended, was used by 23.8% of participants. Among the medications strongly recommended, anticonvulsants were used by 36.5%, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressants by 55.6%, and tricyclic antidepressants by 22.2%. Cannabinoids (17.5%) and medical cannabis (34.9%) use were also reported. For all of these medication subclasses, no differences were found between participants not reporting (n = 35) or reporting (n = 28) more than one pain diagnosis (P < 0.05). Medication subclasses considered most at risk of adverse effects by participants were the least used. Conclusions Results reveal discordance between evidence-based recommendations and medications use, which highlights the complexity of pharmacological treatment of fibromyalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenaelle De Clifford-Faugère
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Hermine Lore Nguena Nguefack
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Marimée Godbout-Parent
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Mamadou Aliou Diallo
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Line Guénette
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec–Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de pharmacie, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - M. Gabrielle Pagé
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Manon Choinière
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvie Beaudoin
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Patiente Partenaire, Laboratoire de recherche en épidémiologie de la douleur chronique, UQAT, RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
- Centre d’expertise en gestion de la douleur chronique, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Aline Boulanger
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre d’expertise en gestion de la douleur chronique, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anne Marie Pinard
- Centre d’expertise en gestion de la douleur chronique, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de soins intensifs, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
- Centre intégré de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale, Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - David Lussier
- Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Philippe De Grandpré
- Familiprix Chantale Gaboury & Marie-Ève Gélinas, Québec, Canada
- Groupe de médecine familiale Clinique Familiale des prairies, Québec, Canada
| | - Simon Deslauriers
- VITAM–Centre de recherche en santé durable, CIUSSS de la CapitaleNationale, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Anaïs Lacasse
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
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13
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Hammaker K, Weathington N, Maroon J, Tang LW, Donohue B, Yehuda R, Ford KM, Figura M, Kelmendi B, Tan B, Cook MW, Factor SD, Lagano L, Driscoll HP, Howe AS, Cho EG, Rabin DM. An answered call for aid? Cannabinoid clinical framework for the opioid epidemic. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:110. [PMID: 37587466 PMCID: PMC10428550 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00842-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid crisis continues in full force, as physicians and caregivers are desperate for resources to help patients with opioid use and chronic pain disorders find safer and more accessible non-opioid tools. MAIN BODY The purpose of this article is to review the current state of the opioid epidemic; the shifting picture of cannabinoids; and the research, policy, and current events that make opioid risk reduction an urgent public health challenge. The provided table contains an evidence-based clinical framework for the utilization of cannabinoids to treat patients with chronic pain who are dependent on opioids, seeking alternatives to opioids, and tapering opioids. CONCLUSION Based on a comprehensive review of the literature and epidemiological evidence to date, cannabinoids stand to be one of the most interesting, safe, and accessible tools available to attenuate the devastation resulting from the misuse and abuse of opioid narcotics. Considering the urgency of the opioid epidemic and broadening of cannabinoid accessibility amidst absent prescribing guidelines, the authors recommend use of this clinical framework in the contexts of both clinical research continuity and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista Hammaker
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, 4209 St Rt 44, PO Box 95, Rootstown, OH, 44272, USA
| | - Nathaniel Weathington
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 200 Delafield Rd, Ste 2040, Pittsburgh, PA, 15215, USA
| | - Joseph Maroon
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 1218 Scaife Hall, 3550 Terrace St, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Lawton W Tang
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Huntington Hospital, 100 West California Blvd, Pasadena, CA, 91105, USA
| | - Brian Donohue
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 1300 Oxford Dr, Bethel Park, PA, 15102, USA
| | - Rachel Yehuda
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Kenneth M Ford
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC), 40 South Alcaniz, Pensacola, FL, 32502, USA
| | - Myro Figura
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- University of California Los Angeles, 757 Westwood Plaza, Ste 3325, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-7403, USA
| | - Ben Kelmendi
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Yale University, 300 George St, Ste 901, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Belinda Tan
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- People Science, Inc, 3870 Del Amo Blvd, Unit 507, Torrance, CA, 90503, USA
| | - Matthew W Cook
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- BioReset Medical, 3803 S Bascom Ave, Ste 203, Campbell, CA, 95008, USA
| | - Steven D Factor
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Abington Neurological Associates, 1151 Old York Rd, Ste 200, Abington, PA, 19001, USA
| | - Laura Lagano
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | | | - Adam S Howe
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Albany Medical Center, 23 Hackett Blvd, MC-108, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - EunBit G Cho
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | - David M Rabin
- The Board of Medicine, 1942 5th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA.
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14
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Cooke ME, Potter KW, Jashinski J, Pascale M, Schuster RM, Tervo-Clemmens B, Hoeppner BB, Pachas GN, Evins AE, Gilman JM. Development of cannabis use disorder in medical cannabis users: A 9-month follow-up of a randomized clinical trial testing effects of medical cannabis card ownership. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1083334. [PMID: 36960460 PMCID: PMC10027723 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1083334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence for long-term effectiveness of commercial cannabis products used to treat medical symptoms is inconsistent, despite increasingly widespread use. Objective To prospectively evaluate the effects of using cannabis on self-reported symptoms of pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and cannabis use disorder (CUD) after 12 months of use. Methods This observational cohort study describes outcomes over 9 months following a 12-week randomized, waitlist-controlled trial (RCT: NCT03224468) in which adults (N = 163) who wished to use cannabis to alleviate insomnia, pain, depression, or anxiety symptoms were randomly assigned to obtain a medical marijuana card immediately (immediate card acquisition group) or to delay obtaining a card for 12 weeks delay (delayed card acquisition group). During the 9-month post-randomization period, all participants could use cannabis as they wished and choose their cannabis products, doses, and frequency of use. Insomnia, pain, depression, anxiety, and CUD symptoms were assessed over the 9-month post-randomization period. Results After 12 months of using cannabis for medical symptoms, 11.7% of all participants (n = 19), and 17.1% of those using cannabis daily or near-daily (n = 6) developed CUD. Frequency of cannabis use was positively correlated with pain severity and number of CUD symptoms, but not significantly associated with severity of self-reported insomnia, depression, or anxiety symptoms. Depression scores improved throughout the 9 months in all participants, regardless of cannabis use frequency. Conclusions Frequency of cannabis use was not associated with improved pain, anxiety, or depression symptoms but was associated with new-onset cannabis use disorder in a significant minority of participants. Daily or near-daily cannabis use appears to have little benefit for these symptoms after 12 months of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E. Cooke
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Kevin W. Potter
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Julia Jashinski
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael Pascale
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
| | - Randi M. Schuster
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Brenden Tervo-Clemmens
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Bettina B. Hoeppner
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Gladys N. Pachas
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - A. Eden Evins
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jodi M. Gilman
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
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15
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Tait J, Erridge S, Sodergren MH. UK Medical Cannabis Registry: A Patient Evaluation. J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother 2023:1-8. [PMID: 36762986 DOI: 10.1080/15360288.2023.2174633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The UK Medical Cannabis Registry is the largest real world data platform for medical cannabis outcomes in the UK, providing insight into clinical outcomes and monitoring safety of this novel therapy. This study aims to assess the functionality and accessibility of the online data collection platform and patient priorities for future research. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data. For open-ended questions an inductive thematic analysis was performed. 600 responses were recorded. 554 (92.3%) patients had used the platform. 272 (90.4%) patients believed it was easy to input medications. 52 (8.67%) patients recorded an adverse event with 38 (73.1%) finding it easy to record. 535 (96.6%) patients had completed health questionnaires with 490 (91.6%) patients finding this easy to do. 553 (92.2%) patients agreed that contributing to the registry would impact the medical care of future patients. 'Assessing the impact of medical cannabis on quality of life generally' was the top research priority for 357 (59.3%) patients. This study demonstrates that most enrolled patients found the platform easy to use and believed they were positively impacting future medical cannabis patient care. Future patient research priorities included assessment of quality of life and condition-specific outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Tait
- Imperial College Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Erridge
- Imperial College Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
| | - Mikael H Sodergren
- Imperial College Medical Cannabis Research Group, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Sapphire Medical Clinics, London, UK
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16
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Tervo-Clemmens B, Schmitt W, Wheeler G, Cooke ME, Schuster RM, Hickey S, Pachas GN, Evins AE, Gilman JM. Cannabis use and sleep quality in daily life: An electronic daily diary study of adults starting cannabis for health concerns. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 243:109760. [PMID: 36638745 PMCID: PMC10015315 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Real world patterns of cannabis use for health concerns are highly variable and rarely overseen by a physician. Pragmatic effectiveness studies with electronic daily diaries that capture person-specific patterns of cannabis use and health symptoms may help clarify risks and benefits. METHODS As part of a larger, randomized trial (NCT03224468), adults (N = 181) seeking cannabis for insomnia, pain, or anxiety or depressive symptoms were randomized to obtain a medical cannabis card immediately (MCC) or a waitlist control (WLC) and completed 12-weeks of daily web-based surveys on cannabis use and sleep, pain, and depressive symptoms. RESULTS Completion rates of daily surveys were moderate to high (median completed: 72 out of 90 days). Daily reports of cannabis use were consistent with monthly interview assessments and urinalysis. The MCC group increased cannabis use frequency in the 12 weeks following randomization, while WLC did not. Among the MCC group, self-reported sleep quality was significantly higher on cannabis use days, compared to nonuse days. The MCC group displayed long-term sleep improvements, consistent with increasing cannabis frequency. No improvements were found for pain or depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION Cannabis use is associated with same day improvements in self-reported sleep quality, but not pain or depressive symptoms, although sleep improvements occurred in the context of increased frequency of cannabis use, raising the risk for cannabis use disorder. Daily web-based assessments of cannabis appear valid and feasible in adults seeking cannabis for health concerns, providing a flexible, complementary method for future real-world effectiveness studies with expanded and objective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenden Tervo-Clemmens
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - William Schmitt
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Grace Wheeler
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan E Cooke
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Randi M Schuster
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sarah Hickey
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gladys N Pachas
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A Eden Evins
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jodi M Gilman
- Center for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Raz N, Eyal AM, Davidson EM. Optimal Treatment with Cannabis Extracts Formulations Is Gained via Knowledge of Their Terpene Content and via Enrichment with Specifically Selected Monoterpenes and Monoterpenoids. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27206920. [PMID: 36296511 PMCID: PMC9608144 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27206920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences between therapeutic effects of medical cannabis inflorescences and those of their extracts are generally attributed to the differences in administration form and in the resultant pharmacokinetics. We hypothesized that difference may further extend to the composition of the actually consumed drug. Cannabinoid and terpene contents were compared between commercial cannabis inflorescences (n = 19) and decarboxylated extracts (n = 12), and between inflorescences and decarboxylated extracts produced from them (n = 10). While cannabinoid content was preserved in the extracts, a significant loss of terpenes was evident, mainly in the more volatile monoterpenes and monoterpenoids (representing a loss of about 90%). This loss changes the total terpene content, the proportion of monoterpenes out of the total terpenes, and the monoterpene/cannabinoid ratio. Terpene deficiency might impair extracts’ pharmacological efficacy and might contribute to the patients’ preference to inflorescences-smoking. This argues against the validity of terms such as “whole plant” and “full spectrum” extracts and creates a misleading assumption that extracts represent the pharmacological profile of the sourced inflorescences. Furthermore, it reduces the diversity in extracts, such as loss of differences between sativa-type and indica-type. Enriching cannabis extracts with selected terpenes may provide a suitable solution, generating a safe, precise, and reproducible drug with tailored cannabinoid and terpene contents. Careful selection of terpenes to be added enables tailor-made extracts, adjusted for various medicinal aims and for different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Raz
- Bazelet Medical Cannabis Group, Or Akiva 3065101, Israel
- Correspondence:
| | - Aharon M. Eyal
- Bazelet Medical Cannabis Group, Or Akiva 3065101, Israel
| | - Elyad M. Davidson
- Department of Anesthesiology, CCM and Pain Relief, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
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18
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Petzke F, Tölle T, Fitzcharles MA, Häuser W. Cannabis-Based Medicines and Medical Cannabis for Chronic Neuropathic Pain. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:31-44. [PMID: 34802112 PMCID: PMC8732831 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-021-00879-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain represents a broad category of pain syndromes that include a wide variety of peripheral and central disorders. The overall prevalence of neuropathic pain in the general population is reported to be between 7 and 10%. Management of neuropathic pain presents an unmet clinical need, with less than 50% of patients achieving substantial pain relief with medications currently recommended such as pregabalin, gabapentin, duloxetine and various tricyclic antidepressants. It has been suggested that cannabis-based medicines (CbMs) and medical cannabis (MC) may be a treatment option for those with chronic neuropathic pain. CbMs/MC are available in different forms: licensed medications or medical products (plant-derived and/or synthetic products such as tetrahydrocannabinol or cannabidiol); magistral preparations of cannabis plant derivatives with defined molecular content such as dronabinol (tetrahydrocannabinol); and herbal cannabis with a defined content of tetrahydrocannabinol and/or cannabidiol, together with other active ingredients (phytocannabinoids other than cannabidiol/tetrahydrocannabinol, terpenes and flavonoids). The availability of different types of CbMs/MC varies between countries worldwide. Systematic reviews of available randomised controlled trials have stated low-quality evidence for CbMs and MC for chronic neuropathic pain. Depending on the studies included in the various quantitative syntheses, authors have reached divergent conclusions on the efficacy of CbMs/MC for chronic neuropathic pain (from not effective to a clinically meaningful benefit). Clinically relevant side effects of CbMs/MC, especially for central nervous system and psychiatric disorders, have been reported by some systematic reviews. Recommendations for the use of CbMs/MC for chronic neuropathic pain by various medical associations also differ, from negative recommendations, no recommendation possible, recommended as third-line therapy, or recommended as an alternative in selected cases failing standard therapies within a multimodal concept. After reading this paper, readers are invited to formulate their own conclusions regarding the potential benefits and harms of CbMs/MC for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Petzke
- Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Tölle
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC Canada ,Division of Rheumatology, McGill University Health Centre, Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Winfried Häuser
- Internal Medicine 1, Klinikum Saarbrücken gGmbH, Winterberg 1, 66119, Saarbrücken, Germany. .,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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Cannabidiol treatment in hand osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Pain 2021; 163:1206-1214. [PMID: 34510141 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Cannabidiol (CBD) is increasingly used as analgesic medication even though the recent International Association for the Study of Pain presidential task force on cannabis and cannabinoid analgesia found a lack of trials examining CBD for pain management. The present trial examines CBD as add on analgesic therapy in patients with hand osteoarthritis or psoriatic arthritis experiencing moderate pain intensity despite therapy. Using a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled design, patients received synthetic CBD 20-30mg or placebo daily for 12 weeks. Primary outcome was pain intensity during the last 24 hours (0-100mm); safety outcomes were percentage of patients experiencing adverse events and a characterization of serious adverse events. Explorative outcomes included change in Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ-DI).One hundred and thirty-six patients were randomized 129 were included in the primary analysis. Between group difference in pain intensity at 12 weeks was 0.23mm (95%CI -9.41 to 9.90; p = 0.96). 22% patients receiving CBD and 21% receiving placebo experienced a reduction in pain intensity of more than 30mm. We found neither clinically nor statistically significant effect of CBD for pain intensity in patients with hand osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis when compared to placebo. Additionally, no statistically significant effects were found on sleep quality, depression, anxiety, or pain catastrophizing scores.
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