[Cannabinoids for neuropathic pain management]

Abstract

Pharmacological treatment of neuropathic pain is associated with side effects and limited efficacy. Recently, the interest in cannabis-based medicine has led to legalisation of medical cannabis in some countries. The aim of this review is to evaluate the evidence of cannabinoids in neuropathic pain. Seventeen trials were identified; eight reported an analgesic efficacy of cannabis-based medicine, and the remaining trials showed no analgesic efficacy. Conclusions were limited by design of studies and short duration of treatment. Overall, the reduction in pain was minimal.