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Endocannabinoid system modulation in acute, chronic, and neuropathic pain: reviewing experimental models, clinical

Rania Elgohary1, Sara M Baraka2

  • 1Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), 33 El Buhouth St, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt.

Metabolic Brain Disease
|May 19, 2026
PubMed

Insights

New pain management strategies are needed due to limitations of current therapies. Research into the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and nanotechnology-enhanced cannabinoids shows promise for safer, more effective chronic pain relief.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Chronic pain affects many individuals and is poorly managed by existing treatments, leading to adverse effects like tolerance and dependence.
  • The endocannabinoid system (ECS), comprising endogenous cannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, plays a vital role in regulating physiological and cognitive functions, including pain perception.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the potential of cannabinoids, particularly medical cannabis, as an alternative therapeutic strategy for chronic pain management.
  • To investigate the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in pain modulation and identify future research directions.
  • To examine how nanotechnology-based delivery systems can overcome limitations of cannabinoid therapeutics.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on chronic pain management, the endocannabinoid system, and cannabinoid therapeutics.
  • Analysis of the potential benefits and risks associated with medical cannabis for chronic pain.
  • Exploration of advancements in nanotechnology for improved cannabinoid delivery.

Main Results:

  • Current pain management strategies have significant limitations, necessitating novel approaches.
  • Cannabinoids, including medical cannabis, show potential for pain relief, but require more research on efficacy and long-term safety for non-malignant pain.
  • Nanotechnology offers solutions to enhance cannabinoid solubility, stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Further research is essential to fully understand and utilize the endocannabinoid system (ECS) for effective chronic pain management.
  • Nanotechnology-based delivery platforms hold significant promise for enhancing the efficacy and safety of cannabinoid therapeutics for pain.
  • A cautious clinical approach is needed when considering medical cannabis due to potential adverse effects and limited long-term data.
Keywords:
CannabinoidsEndocannabinoid systemInflammationNanotechnologyPain

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