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Clarke H, Miles S, Peer M, Fitzcharles MA. The Elusive Truth of Cannabinoids for Rheumatic Pain. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2024:10.1007/s11926-024-01162-9. [PMID: 39120750 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-024-01162-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Medical cannabis (MC) has entered mainstream medicine by a unique route. Regulatory acceptance as a medical product in many jurisdictions has bypassed the traditional evidence-based pathway required for therapies. Easier access to MC, especially related to recreational legalization of cannabis, has led to widespread use by patients for symptom relief of a variety of medical conditions and often without medical oversight. Musculoskeletal pain remains the most common reason for MC use. This review examines real-world issues pertaining to MC and offers some guidance for clinical care of patients with rheumatic diseases being treated with MC. RECENT FINDINGS Controlled clinical studies of cannabis products in patients with rheumatic diseases have been small and tested a range of compounds, routes of administration, and clinical populations, limiting our ability to generate conclusions on MC's effectiveness in this population. Observational cohort studies and surveys suggest that use of MC and related products in patients with rheumatic diseases improves pain and associated symptoms but is commonly accompanied by mild to moderate side effects. Conflicting evidence contributes to practitioner and patient uncertainty regarding the use of MC for rheumatic disease-related pain. Despite promising preclinical and observational evidence that MC and cannabis-derived compounds are useful in the management of rheumatic disease-related pain, there remains limited high-quality clinical evidence to substantiate these findings. There are a significant number of clinical trials on this topic currently planned or underway, however, suggesting the next decade may yield more clarity. Nevertheless, given that many people with rheumatic diseases are using cannabis products, healthcare professionals must remain apprised of the evidence pertaining to cannabinoids, communicate such evidence to patients in a meaningful way that is free from personal bias and stigma, and maintain strong collaborative clinical care pertaining to MC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hance Clarke
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, Pain Research Unit, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Transitional Pain Service, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Miles
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, University Health Network, Sinai Health System, and Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Miki Peer
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, University Health Network, Sinai Health System, and Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Department of Rheumatology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
- Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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de Barros GAM, Pos AM, Sousa ÂM, Pereira CL, Nobre CDDA, Palmeira CCDA, Caruy CAA, Munhoz DC, Kraychete DC, Avelar ECQ, Fukushima FB, Garcia JBS, Torres JNL, Rodrigues KDA, Palladini M, Neto ODHC, Carmona MJC. Cannabinoid products for pain management: recommendations from the São Paulo State Society of Anesthesiology. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIOLOGY (ELSEVIER) 2024; 74:844513. [PMID: 38740135 PMCID: PMC11167254 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjane.2024.844513] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
There is growing interest in using cannabinoids across various clinical scenarios, including pain medicine, leading to the disregard of regulatory protocols in some countries. Legislation has been implemented in Brazil, specifically in the state of São Paulo, permitting the distribution of cannabinoid products by health authorities for clinical purposes, free of charge for patients, upon professional prescription. Thus, it is imperative to assess the existing evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of these products in pain management. In light of this, the São Paulo State Society of Anesthesiology (SAESP) established a task force to conduct a narrative review on the topic using the Delphi method, requiring a minimum agreement of 60% among panelists. The study concluded that cannabinoid products could potentially serve as adjuncts in pain management but stressed the importance of judicious prescription. Nevertheless, this review advises against their use for acute pain and cancer-related pain. In other clinical scenarios, established treatments should take precedence, particularly when clinical protocols are available, such as in neuropathic pain. Only patients exhibiting poor therapeutic responses to established protocols or demonstrating intolerance to recommended management may be considered as potential candidates for cannabinoids, which should be prescribed by physicians experienced in handling these substances. Special attention should be given to individual patient characteristics and the likelihood of drug interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ângela Maria Sousa
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Cecília Daniele de Azevedo Nobre
- Casa de Saúde São José (Rede Santa Catarina), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | - Derli Conceição Munhoz
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fernanda Bono Fukushima
- Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Wallez S, Kousignian I, Hecker I, Rezag Bara SF, Andersen AJ, Melchior M, Cadwallader JS, Mary-Krause M. Factors associated with the use of cannabis for self-medication by adults: data from the French TEMPO cohort study. J Cannabis Res 2024; 6:19. [PMID: 38600591 PMCID: PMC11005193 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-024-00230-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical cannabis, legalized in many countries, remains illegal in France. Despite an experiment in the medical use of cannabis that began in March 2021 in France, little is known about the factors associated with the use of cannabis for self-medication among adults. METHODS Data came from the French TEMPO cohort and were collected between December 2020 and May 2021. Overall, 345 participants aged 27-47 were included. Cannabis for self-medication was defined using the following questions: 'Why do you use cannabis?' and 'In what form do you use cannabis?'. The penalized regression method "Elastic net" was used to determine factors associated with the use of cannabis for self-medication, with the hypothesis that it is mainly used for pain in individuals who have already used cannabis. RESULTS More than half of the participants reported having ever used cannabis (58%). Only 10% used it for self-declared medical reasons (n = 36). All self-medication cannabis users, except one, were also using cannabis for recreational purposes. The main factors associated with cannabis use for self-medication vs. other reasons included cannabis use trajectories, the presence of musculoskeletal disorders, tobacco smoking, and parental divorce. CONCLUSIONS Engaging in cannabis use during adolescence or early adulthood may increase the likelihood of resorting to self-medication in adulthood. Due to the propensity of individuals with cannabis use during adolescence to resort to uncontrolled products for self-medication, this population should be more systematically targeted and screened for symptoms and comorbidities that may be associated with cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solène Wallez
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Isabelle Kousignian
- Université Paris Cité, Unité de Recherche « Biostatistique, Traitement Et Modélisation Des Données Biologiques » BioSTM - UR 7537, 75006, Paris, France
| | - Irwin Hecker
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Selma Faten Rezag Bara
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Astrid Juhl Andersen
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Maria Melchior
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Jean-Sébastien Cadwallader
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France
- Sorbonne Université, Faculté de Médecine Saint-Antoine, Département de Médecine Générale, Paris, 75012, France
| | - Murielle Mary-Krause
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Paris, 75012, France.
- Sorbonne Université - Faculté de Médecine, Site Saint-Antoine, UMR-S 1136 - N° BC 2908, Équipe Cohorte TEMPO, 27 Rue Chaligny, 75012, Paris, France.
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Pomey MP, Jutras-Aswad D, Paquette J, Saadi K, Taguemout M, Ikene DL, Arbour N, Zertal A, Fréjeau N, Morin D, Ouellette JS, Alami Marrouni K, Duquette P. Perceptions and engagement of patients with chronic conditions on the use of medical cannabis: a scoping review. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:211. [PMID: 38561859 PMCID: PMC10983766 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-01803-w] [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: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Studies generally focus on one type of chronic condition and the effect of medical cannabis (MC) on symptoms; little is known about the perceptions and engagement of patients living with chronic conditions regarding the use of MC. OBJECTIVES This scoping review aims to explore: (1) what are the dimensions addressed in studies on MC that deal with patients' perceptions of MC? and (2) how have patients been engaged in developing these studies and their methodologies? Through these objectives, we have identified areas for improving future research. METHODS We searched five databases and applied exclusion criteria to select relevant articles. A thematic analysis approach was used to identify the main themes: (1) reasons to use, to stop using or not to use MC, (2) effects of MC on patients themselves and empowerment, (3) perspective and knowledge about MC, and (4) discussion with relatives and healthcare professionals. RESULTS Of 53 articles, the main interest when assessing the perceptions of MC is to identify the reasons to use MC (n = 39), while few articles focused on the reasons leading to stop using MC (n = 13). The majority (85%) appraise the effects of MC as perceived by patients. Less than one third assessed patients' sense of empowerment. Articles determining the beliefs surrounding and knowledge of MC (n = 41) generally addressed the concerns about or the comfort level with respect to using MC. Only six articles assessed patients' stereotypes regarding cannabis. Concerns about stigma constituted the main topic while assessing relationships with relatives. Some articles included patients in the research, but none of them had co-created the data collection tool with patients. CONCLUSIONS Our review outlined that few studies considered chronic diseases as a whole and that few patients are involved in the co-construction of data collection tools as well. There is an evidence gap concerning the results in terms of methodological quality when engaging patients in their design. Future research should evaluate why cannabis' effectiveness varies between patients, and how access affects the decision to use or not to use MC, particularly regarding the relationship between patients and healthcare providers. Future research should consider age and gender while assessing perceptions and should take into consideration the legislation status of cannabis as these factors could in fact shape perception. To reduce stigma and stereotypes about MC users, better quality and accessible information on MC should be disseminated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pascale Pomey
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.
- School of Public Health, Department of Health Management, Evaluation of Policy, Université de Montréal, 7101 Du Parc Avenue 3rd Floor, Montréal, QC, H3N 1X9, Canada.
- Centre of Excellence on Partnership with Patients and the Public, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jesseca Paquette
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kamilla Saadi
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Anthropology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Mélissa Taguemout
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Dina-Liza Ikene
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Arbour
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Amel Zertal
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Fréjeau
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Danielle Morin
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Sylvain Ouellette
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kanza Alami Marrouni
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre Duquette
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Gjorgjievski M, Madden K, Bullen C, Koziarz F, Koziarz A, Cenic A, Li S, Bhandari M, Johal H. Perceptions in orthopedic surgery on the use of cannabis in treating pain: a survey of patients with spine pain (POSIT Spine). J Orthop Surg Res 2024; 19:97. [PMID: 38291451 PMCID: PMC10825977 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-04558-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Despite guidelines discouraging opioids as first-line treatment, opioids remain the most prescribed drugs for back pain. There is renewed interest in exploring the potential medical applications of cannabis, and with the recent changes in national legislation there is a unique opportunity to investigate the analgesic properties of cannabis. METHODS This was a multi-center survey-based study examining patient perceptions regarding cannabis for spine pain. We included patients presenting with back or neck pain to one of three Orthopedic clinics in Ontario. Our primary outcome was perceived effect of cannabis on back pain, while secondary outcomes were perceptions regarding potential applications and barriers to cannabis use. RESULTS 259 patients participated in this study, 35.3% (90/255) stating they used cannabis medically. Average pain severity was 6.5/10 ± 0.3 (95% CI 6.2-6.8). Nearly three-quarters were prescribed opioids (73.6%, 148/201), with oxycodone/oxycontin (45.9% 68/148) being the most common, and almost half of (49.3%, 73/148) had used an opioid in the last week. Patients estimated cannabis could treat 54.3% ± 4.0 (95% CI 50.3-58.3%) of their spine pain and replace 46.2% ± 6. 6 (95% CI 39.6-52.8%) of their current analgesics. Age (β = - 0.3, CI - 0.6-0.0), higher pain severity (β = 0.4, CI 0.1-0.6) and previous cannabis use (β = 14.7, CI 5.1-24.4) were associated with a higher perceived effect of cannabis. Patients thought cannabis would be beneficial to treat pain (129/146, 88.4%), and reduce (116/146, 79.5%) or eliminate opioids (102/146, 69.9%). Not considering using cannabis for medical purposes (65/150, 43.3%) was the number one reported barrier. CONCLUSIONS Patients estimated medical cannabis could treat more than half of their spine pain, with one in three patients already using medical cannabis. 79% of patients also believe cannabis could reduce opioid usage. This data will help support more research into cannabis for musculoskeletal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gjorgjievski
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Victory 3, Kingston General Hospital, Queen's University, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 2V7, Canada.
| | - Kim Madden
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Conner Bullen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Frank Koziarz
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Alex Koziarz
- Department of Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Aleksa Cenic
- Department of Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster, University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Silvia Li
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Mohit Bhandari
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Herman Johal
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Poisblaud L, Kröger E, Jauvin N, Pelletier-Jacob J, Bélanger RE, Foldes-Busque G, Aubin M, Pluye P, Guillaumie L, Amiri M, Dagenais P, Dionne CE. Perceptions and Preoccupations of Patients and Physicians Regarding Use of Medical Cannabis as an Intervention Against Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Results from a Qualitative Study. J Pain Res 2023; 16:3463-3475. [PMID: 37873024 PMCID: PMC10590559 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s413450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Explore perceptions and preoccupations regarding use of medical cannabis against chronic musculoskeletal pain, among patients and physicians. Design Qualitative study using interviews with patients and physicians, based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Setting The study was conducted in Quebec, Canada, in spring 2020. Subjects We included 27 adult patients and 11 physicians (GPs, anesthesiologists, psychiatrists, and a rheumatologist); the mean age of patients was 48.2 years; 59.3% of patients and 36.4% of physicians were women; 59.3% of patients used no medical cannabis at the time of study; 45.5% of physicians had never authorized it. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed and for the qualitative analysis codes were developed in a hybrid, inductive and deductive approach. Guided by the TPB, facilitators and barriers, perceived benefits and harms, and perceived norms that may influence cannabis use or authorization were documented. Results Although medical cannabis is an interesting avenue for the relief of chronic musculoskeletal pain, doctors and patients agreed that it remained a last line option, due to the lack of scientific evidence regarding its safety and efficacy. The norms surrounding medical cannabis also play an important role in the social and professional acceptance of this therapeutic option. Conclusion Medical cannabis is seen as a last line option among interventions in the management of chronic pain, and attitudes and prior experiences play a role in the decision to use it. Study results may contribute to improved shared decision making between patients and physicians regarding this option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Poisblaud
- Centre d’excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Edeltraut Kröger
- Centre d’excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nathalie Jauvin
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julie Pelletier-Jacob
- Centre d’excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard E Bélanger
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Guillaume Foldes-Busque
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Research Centre, Centre Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CISSS) de Chaudière-Appalaches, Lévis, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michèle Aubin
- Centre d’excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pierre Pluye
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Malek Amiri
- Faculty of Nursing, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pierre Dagenais
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Clermont E Dionne
- Centre d’excellence sur le vieillissement de Québec (CEVQ), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSSCN), Québec, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
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7
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Dassieu L, Paul-Savoie E, Develay É, Villela Guilhon AC, Guénette L, Perreault K, Beaudry H, Dupuis L, Audet C, Lacasse A. Experiences and Perceptions of Medical Cannabis among People Living with Chronic Pain and Community Pharmacists: A Qualitative Study in Canada. Can J Pain 2023; 7:2258537. [PMID: 38027232 PMCID: PMC10653616 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2023.2258537] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background The use of cannabis to treat chronic pain is under debate despite high expectations from patients. Qualitative data obtained by exploring both patients' and health professionals' perspectives are scarce. Aims This study aimed to understand the experiences and perceptions of people living with chronic pain and community pharmacists regarding the role of cannabis in chronic pain treatment in the Canadian context where both medical and recreational cannabis are legal. Methods We conducted 12 online focus groups (July 2020-February 2021) with 26 patients and 19 community pharmacists using semistructured discussion guides. All discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim were analyzed using a reflexive thematic approach. Results We developed three themes related to patients' perspectives and three themes related to pharmacists' perspectives. Patients' perspectives included (1) cannabis as an alternative to other pain medications, (2) a new treatment with potential health-related risks, and (3) a therapy rather than a recreational drug. Pharmacists' perspectives included (1) challenges in monitoring drug interactions with cannabis in the context of scarce research data, (2) informing and treating patients self-medicating with cannabis amid its growing popularity, and (3) financial costs and legal constraints for patients. Conclusions This study highlights patients' and pharmacists' urgent need for reliable information regarding the benefits and risks of cannabis. Training tailored to pharmacists' needs and evidence-based information for patients should be developed to support pharmacists' practice, improve patients' experiences, and promote safe cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Dassieu
- Research Center of the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emilie Paul-Savoie
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
| | - Élise Develay
- Research Center of the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ana Cecilia Villela Guilhon
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
| | - Line Guénette
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Axe Santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kadija Perreault
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et en intégration sociale (CIRRIS), Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hélène Beaudry
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Laurent Dupuis
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Claudie Audet
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anaïs Lacasse
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Canada
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8
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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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The role of personality traits on self-medicated cannabis in rheumatoid arthritis patients: A multivariable analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280219. [PMID: 36634127 PMCID: PMC9836304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients commonly report medicinal cannabis use (MCU). Personality has been independently associated with both RA-related outcomes and MCU, but there is no information available on how they interact in RA patients. This study aimed to investigate a potential association between personality traits and MCU in RA outpatients, as well as to identify additional factors associated with its use. METHODS This cross-sectional study was performed between June 2020 and August 2021. Consecutive RA outpatients had standardized evaluations using an interview format to collect sociodemographic information, comorbidities, risk of recreational substance use, RA-related disease activity/severity, health-related quality of life, depressive and anxiety symptoms, five personality traits, and MCU in the 12 months before the interview. Multivariable logistic regression estimated adjusted odds ratios (aOR). The study was IRB-approved. RESULTS 180 patients were included; 160 (88.9%) were women with a mean age of 53.4 ± 13 years. Fifty-three (29.4%) patients reported MCU. Among them, 52 (98.1%) used topical formulations. Neuroticism had the highest overall score ([Formula: see text] = 3.47 ± 0.34). Openness to experience trait was higher in MCU patients in the comparative analysis (p = 0.007). In the multivariable regression, higher openness trait (aOR: 2.81, 95%CI: 1.11-7.10) along with moderate risk in tobacco use (aOR: 3.36, 95%CI: 1.04-10.7) and higher RA disease activity/severity (aOR: 1.10, 95%CI: 1.01-1.19) were independently associated with MCU. CONCLUSIONS In the current study, personality influenced the seeking of MCU for pain relief, associating dynamically with higher disease activity/severity and tobacco use. Contrary to other available information, it did not relate to psychopathology or the recreational use of cannabis. Proactive interdisciplinary clinical evaluations around MCU in RA outpatients should include personality, besides standard clinical assessments, to understand patients' motivations for its use as they may reveal important clinical information.
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Godbout-Parent M, Nguena Nguefack HL, Angarita-Fonseca A, Audet C, Bernier A, Zahlan G, Julien N, Pagé MG, Guénette L, Blais L, Lacasse A. Prevalence of cannabis use for pain management in Quebec: A post-legalization estimate among generations living with chronic pain. Can J Pain 2022; 6:65-77. [PMID: 35694144 PMCID: PMC9176231 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2022.2051112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Medical cannabis has been legal in Canada since 2001, and recreational cannabis was legalized in October 2018, which has led to a widespread increase in the accessibility of cannabis products. Aims This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of cannabis use among adults living with chronic pain (CP) and investigate the relationship between age and cannabis use for CP management. Methods A cross-sectional analysis of the COPE Cohort data set, a large Quebec sample of 1935 adults living with CP, was conducted. Participants completed a web-based questionnaire in 2019 that contained three yes/no questions about past-year use of cannabis (i.e., for pain management, management of other health-related conditions, recreational purposes). Results Among the 1344 participants who completed the cannabis use section of the questionnaire, the overall prevalence of cannabis use for pain management was 30.1% (95% confidence interval 27.7-32.7). Differences were found between age groups, with the highest prevalence among participants aged ≤26 years (36.5%) and lowest for those aged ≥74 years (8.8%). A multivariable logistic model revealed that age, region of residence, generalized pain, use of medications or nonpharmacological approaches for pain management, alcohol/drug consumption, and smoking were associated with the likelihood of using cannabis for pain management. Conclusions Cannabis is a common treatment for the management of CP, especially in younger generations. The high prevalence of use emphasizes the importance of better knowledge translation for people living with CP, rapidly generating evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of cannabis, and clinicians' involvement in supporting people who use cannabis for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marimée Godbout-Parent
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Hermine Lore Nguena Nguefack
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Adriana Angarita-Fonseca
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada,Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Claudie Audet
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Andréanne Bernier
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Ghita Zahlan
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Nancy Julien
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - M. Gabrielle Pagé
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada,médecine, Université de MontréalDépartement d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Line Guénette
- Faculté de pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada,Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec–Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Lucie Blais
- Faculté de pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anaïs Lacasse
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada,CONTACT Anaïs Lacasse, PhD Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, 445, boul. de l’Université, Rouyn-Noranda, QCJ9X 5E4, Canada
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