Cannabinoids

The Cannabis plant contains hundreds of compounds including the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the non-psychotropic cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids. In addition to Cannabis consumption via vapour and smoking, pharmaceutically derived cannabinoids have been developed as sprays and capsules, such as nabiximols and dronabinol. The medicinal uses of cannabinoids continue to be investigated for a range of conditions including pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. While many studies have demonstrated beneficial effects for treating some of these conditions, some patients have reported a number of adverse events such as psychiatric disorders, dry mouth and fatigue.

For information on the results from randomised controlled trials and a summary of the findings using meta-analysis, select a condition below and download the related fact sheet. As always, consult your physician before adding new treatments to your regimen or changing any current medication.