[Medicinal cannabis]

Abstract

Medicinal cannabis The use of cannabis products for medical purposes is rapidly increasing in the Netherlands. Studies suggest that these products have positive effects in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain, multiple-sclerosis-related spasticity, certain epilepsy syndromes and chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. The interpretation of these findings is impeded by methodological shortcomings, such as a small number of participants. Differences in product composition and dosage form mean that study resultsare often not directly comparable. Responsible prescribing requires that the patient be very well informed about the goal of treatment, alternative forms of treatment and the side effects. A history of psychosis, relevant cardiac co-morbidity, recurrent falls, addiction problems, pregnancy and breastfeeding are all contra-indications to the use of medical cannabis.