Cannabinoids in anaesthesia and pain therapy

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Cannabinoids possess long-recognized analgesic, anxiolytic, antiemetic, and antispastic properties.
• The identification of the endogenous cannabinoid system has spurred interest in Western medicine.
• This review focuses on the endocannabinoid system and exogenous cannabinoids in anesthesia and pain management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review preclinical and clinical studies on the endocannabinoid system's role in anesthesia and pain.
• To evaluate the efficacy and side effects of cannabinoids in various pain conditions.
• To explore the potential of cannabinoids as co-analgesics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
• Analysis of data on cannabinoid effects in anesthesia and pain management.
• Synthesis of findings regarding the endocannabinoid system's involvement.

Main Results:

• The endocannabinoid system is implicated in the effects of propofol and nociception.
• High-dose cannabinoids for acute pain cause side effects; lower doses may help neuropathic pain.
• Cannabinoids demonstrate benefits for spasticity, pain, tremor, and bladder dysfunction in multiple sclerosis.

Conclusions:

• Clinical trial results sometimes contradict promising preclinical findings.
• Low-dose cannabinoids may be more effective as co-analgesics to inhibit neuroplasticity and central sensitization.
• Further research is needed to reconcile preclinical and clinical data for optimal cannabinoid application.