Cannabidiol Can Potentially Relieve Mild to Moderate Pain in Older Adults, Study Finds

Cannabidiol (CBD) may provide mild to moderate pain relief with minimal psychoactive effects in older adults, but more research is needed, according to a study published in the Journal of Gerontological Nursing.

“This article provides information to the clinician caring for the older adult population who have questions about CBD use,” explained Brooke Porter, BSN, RN, University of Iowa, College of Nursing in Iowa City, Iowa, and coauthors.

Terminology about cannabis products often includes the terms cannabis plants, phytocannabinoids, endogenous cannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids. CBD is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in around 40% of cannabis extracts. Studies evaluating the combination of THC and CBD in adults show mixed results for various pain conditions. Some studies suggest the combination is effective against pain from cancer, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, and non-specific chronic pain. However, other studies found no pain improvement in rheumatic diseases, nociceptive pain, or peripheral neuropathy. Overall, the studies show evidence of a knowledge gap concerning how CBD might affect older adults, and randomized CBD trials in the older adult population are needed before it is deemed efficacious for pain treatment in this population.

Before prescribing CBD to older patients, clinicians should consider its role in the overall treatment plan and interactions with other treatment options, patient education, safety issues or concerns, and they should monitor older adults for adverse effects from CBD.

“Legalization of CBD has increased the popularity of the product among older adults; however, research on its benefits and adverse side effects in this population is in its infancy,” explained the study authors. “Interest in CBD use for pain management has been bolstered by the challenges of managing pain in older adults with minimal potential for adverse effects, but healthcare providers who are asked for guidance by older patients may have limited education related to CBD.”

Reference

Porter B, Marie BS, Milavetz G, Herr K. Cannabidiol (CBD) Use by Older Adults for Acute and Chronic Pain. J Gerontol Nurs. 2021;47(7):6-15. doi:10.3928/00989134-20210610-02