Evaluation of Cannabis and Cannabinoid Product Use, Knowledge, and Attitudes in the Eczema Community

Data to date supports the potential for targeting the cutaneous endocannabinoid system to treat eczematous dermatoses. However, our understanding of patient knowledge and utilization of cannabis/cannabis-derived products as treatments for eczema is limited, highlighting both a gap and opportunity to engage with the eczema community.

An online survey assessing the use, knowledge, and attitudes of a broad scope of cannabis product types was advertised by the National Eczema Association (NEA) via social media and NEA network dissemination.

Of 76 respondents to the survey, 69 (90.79%) were individuals diagnosed with eczema, 7 (9.21%) were primary caregivers of a dependent diagnosed with eczema. Respondents most frequently used OTC products purchased without recommendation from a dermatologist (22 [36.07%], n=61) and least frequently used medical cannabis recommended by a dermatologist (2 [3.12%], n=64). All respondents supported medical cannabis use (50 [100%], n=50) and most respondents (47 [94%], n=50) would be comfortable seeing a dermatologist who recommended medical cannabis. 94% of respondents (47, n=50) would be interested in learning about using medical cannabis for treatment of eczema, but most had never discussed this topic with their healthcare provider (54 [93.10%], n=58). 46.67% of respondents (28, n=60) were unsure if OTC cannabis-derived products were regulated by the FDA.

Eczema patients are open to learning about cannabinoids and many are already using OTC products. As both consumer interest/use and the cannabis industry continue to outpace medical research and guidelines, dermatologists need to be prepared to counsel patients on cannabinoid applications in dermatology. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(4):413-419. doi:10.36849/JDD.6615.