CBD OIL for PAIN RELIEF: Does it work?

WORDS : JOHN DEUSTCH

AArecent study on CBD by SingleCare (a discounted health plan) found that 33% of Americans have used CBD. When looking at why people use CBD, that study also found most people (64%) take it for pain relief or inflammation, followed by anxiety and stress (49%), and for sleep issues (42%).

With the majority of Americans taking CBD for pain management, the question is — does it work? While the answer is not definitive, current data is promising.

As it relates to pain, CBD is thought to have beneficial effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex cell-signaling system is found in all humans. Although it is not completely understood, the ECS seems to play a role in regulating many functions in the body, including: chronic pain, inflammation, immune system processes, sleep, mood, stress, appetite and memory.

If, for example, something throws off part of our body's normal operating system, the ECS seems to help our body maintain homeostasis. Experts think CBD works by preventing the breakdown of these endocannabinoids, which allows them to have a greater beneficial effect, helping the body return to a more balanced state.

Many small-scale studies have been completed with CBD and they are pointing to a positive effect when used to help with pain. A 2018 study published in Frontiers of Pharmacology reviewed studies on CBD conducted between 1975 and 2018, and the researchers concluded that CBD was effective in overall pain management.

CBD is currently available as an over-the-counter product in numerous forms such as oils, creams and capsules. Anyone investigating CBD will also see it is promoted as either an isolate, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum product.

CBD isolate contains only CBD (cannabidiol) as an active ingredient. Full-spectrum and broadspectrum products, often referred to as "hemp oil extract," contain CBD as well as other cannabinoids, terpenes and botanicals natural to the hemp plant. Full-spectrum extracts may contain very small amounts (less than 0.3%) of THC, however, this amount of THC does not cause a "high" and is far less than what is seen in marijuana, which typically contains 10% THC or higher. Additionally, CBD products, including hemp oil extracts show no potential for abuse or dependence.

Some researchers believe that providing the full range of the cannabinoids, terpenes and botanicals present in full-spectrum hemp oil extract may be more effective than CBD alone through a mechanism they call the "entourage effect." It seems the presence of the complimentary cannabinoids (the entourage) interacts with the endocannabinoid system to make the CBD more potent and effective.

There are a number of different choices when it comes to CBD dosage forms, formulations, starting dosages and possible interactions with other prescription medications or health conditions. So it would be wise to talk with your healthcare provider and local pharmacist prior to considering starting a CBD product.

InHealth Specialty Pharmacy carries a professional line of full-spectrum CBD products. Stop by or call 701-365-6050 to talk with a pharmacist to learn more about CBD.

John Deutsch

is a pharmacist and co-owner of InHealth Specialty Pharmacy in Fargo. InHealth specializes in preparing custom medications with a special focus on women's health and veterinary prescriptions.