Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025

Author Spotlight: Methodologies and Advancements of Chronic Pain Management Research
Published on: January 5, 2024
Cannabis and Pain Management
Fred Rottnek1, Sheryl Lyss2, John Hartman2
1From the Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, SSM Health SLUCare and Saint Louis University School of Medicine (FR); Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, SSM Health SLUCare and Saint Louis University School of Medicine (SL); Saint Louis University School of Medicine (JH); Anesthesiology and Critical Care, SSM Health SLUCare and Saint Louis University School of Medicine (GP); Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, SSM Health SLUCare and Saint Louis University School of Medicine (AH). Fred.Rottnek@health.slu.edu).
Abstract:
Family physicians are fielding questions about cannabis --particularly for the use of cannabis for treatment of pain. Like about every substance ingested to treat medical conditions, cannabis has risks and benefits. But regarding evidence-based practice and practice-based recommendations for patients about cannabis use, the cart is in front of the horse. Cannabis use is still illegal at a federal level and a Schedule 1 drug, but most states have challenged federal law by decriminalizing or legalizing cannabis for a variety of uses. Research is difficult due to this federal status as a Schedule 1 drug since federal funding is not readily available to support research. As a result, physicians have little to no guidance about the clinical usefulness of the product. This article explores what we know and what we are learning about cannabis, and the authors provide clinical guidance for patient care based on this evidence.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Pain

