Why Patients Like High-THC Cannabis for Neuropathy Over Opioids?

Discover how cannabis in a weed dispensary offers significant pain relief for neuropathy, with patients reporting reductions of over 30%. A survey of 603 medical cannabis patients treating neuropathy aims to shed light on conflicting state policies and their impact on patient care. Visit now at Grasslife.ca

Why Do Patients Like High-THC Cannabis for Neuropathy Over Opioids?

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to a range of conditions affecting the nervous system. With over 100 types, symptoms vary depending on the type of nerve damage—motor, sensory, or autonomic. Neuropathic pain, often chronic, can stem from factors such as:

• Diabetes
• Autoimmune disorders
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Alcoholism
• Medications
• Cancer treatments
• Viral infections
• Genetic disorders
• Injury
• Aging

 Symptoms experienced by those with neuropathy include numbness, burning or tingling pain, muscle weakness (particularly in limbs), heightened sensitivity to touch, abnormal sensations, difficulty in movement or coordination, trouble holding objects, foot-dragging, high arches, or curled toes.

How Common is it to Treat Neuropathy with Medical Marijuana?

Over 20 million Americans are dealing with peripheral neuropathy, as per the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. According to our 2022 Cannabis Conditions Report, only 1.91% of patients report using cannabis for neuropathy treatment.

In the survey conducted by Alexandra Arnett, 86.2% of respondents experienced pain levels above 6 out of 10 before using medical cannabis. Many seek cannabis for chronic pain linked to neuropathy, the most prevalent and disabling symptom. 

Neuropathy affects over 20 million people, while chronic pain affects 50.2 million adults. NORML estimates over 65% of medical cannabis patients use chronic pain as their qualifying condition. The report found that 26.3% of patients use cannabis for chronic pain.

Considering these figures, it is estimated that many more medical cannabis patients seek treatment for neuropathy than the reported 1.91%.

Neuropathy is about 40% less common than chronic pain in the U.S. This suggests roughly 10.5% of patients apply for a medical cannabis card to address neuropathy or related symptoms like chronic pain.

Patients Report Marijuana as Effective as Opioids for Neuropathy

A recent survey reveals that marijuana is just as effective as opioids in alleviating neuropathy symptoms. The majority of patients using cannabis for neuropathy opt for high-THC products, questioning prior studies’ reliance on low-potency cannabis.

Survey Highlights Significant Pain Relief with Cannabis

NuggMD surveyed 603 patients using marijuana for neuropathy, showcasing substantial pain reduction post-cannabis use. Patients reported an average pain relief level of 4.2 out of 10 after cannabis consumption.

Increasing cannabinoid dosage didn’t necessarily enhance pain relief, but patients benefitted from high-THC cannabis (>20% THC). Most patients favor high-potency products, contrary to low-THC products used in prior research studies.

Patient Preference for Medical Marijuana

Patients prioritize medical marijuana over opioids and other alternatives due to its side effects and dependence. Medical marijuana offers a safer alternative for long-term neuropathy treatment. It is said that cannabis use improves the quality of life and reduces pain among various patient populations.

How Effective is Medical Marijuana in Treating Neuropathy?

In a survey of 603 individuals using medical cannabis, 248 reported primarily treating neuropathy with cannabis, while 355 mentioned it as a secondary condition, potentially due to its exclusion as a qualifying condition in their state. Most respondents were between the ages of 45 and 64, with nearly equal representation of genders.

Research indicates that pro-inflammatory agents like cytokines and histamines contribute to pain. Studies suggest that THC, acting as a cannabinoid receptor agonist, can mitigate pain and decrease neuro-inflammation. 

Additionally, increasing the body’s natural endocannabinoid levels, such as CBD, to elevate anandamide levels can alleviate pain. Both THC and CBD demonstrate efficacy in relieving neuropathic pain, with CBD potentially presenting fewer side effects. The notable benefits of THC and CBD in pain management underscore the need for further investigation.

High THC Products

• Platinum Rockstar

Platinum Rockstar is a calming hybrid strain leaning towards Indica. Its name comes from the frosty look, thanks to the trichomes on the buds. A cross between Pineapple OG and Deadhead OG, it packs a THC punch of 21-28% and a dash of CBD at 1%. This combo makes it effective for stress, anxiety, depression, and pain relief. It’s also great for boosting appetite and aiding sleep. A smooth ride into relaxation with a bonus appetite boost!

• Apple Fritter

Apple Fritter, also called “Apple Fritters,” is a rare balanced hybrid strain, a mix of Sour Apple and Animal Cookies. It gained fame for being one of the strongest strains in the world. It’s like enjoying a freshly baked apple cake with a sweet apple flavour and a hint of vanilla. The high hits quickly, clearing the mind and relaxing the body. With its potent THC levels and calming effects, Apple Fritter is great for relieving insomnia, chronic pain, depression, mood swings, and stress. 

Look For A Reliable Weed Dispensary

Look for a good weed dispensary like GrassLife if you need medical cannabis for neuropathy or other conditions. We offer top-quality products with the right THC levels and many choices to fit your needs. Make smart decisions about your health with GrassLife.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How is THC Measured in Cannabis?

THC content in cannabis is measured as a percentage of the total weight of cannabinoids present in the plant material. This is usually indicated on product labels and is determined through laboratory testing.

• What Are the Effects of High-THC Cannabis?

Consuming high-THC cannabis can produce a range of effects, including euphoria, relaxation, altered perception of time and space, increased appetite, and potential side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired coordination.

• Can High-THC Cannabis Cause Addiction?

While cannabis addiction is less common than with some other substances, regular use of high-THC cannabis can lead to dependence in some individuals. Factors such as genetics, frequency of use, and personal susceptibility can influence addiction potential.