Cannabis for fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a health condition that can cause widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Unlike arthritis, which affects the joints, fibromyalgia may be related to how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.

Fibromyalgia affects about 4 million adults in the United States, mostly women. In recent years, medical cannabis has gained attention as a possible way to manage fibromyalgia symptoms.

Research on cannabis for fibromyalgia

There’s still a lot to learn about how cannabis may help with fibromyalgia.

Research shows that the cannabis plant’s cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), may:

• Reduce pain
• Improve sleep
• Lower stress

In one study, 94% of people with fibromyalgia who used cannabis reported pain relief. The majority of participants also reported an improvement in sleep quality (93%), depression (87%), and anxiety (62%).

However, studies overall have yielded mixed results, showing the need for further research.

Using cannabis for fibromyalgia

You might consider cannabis if traditional treatments don’t work for you or cause side effects. It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits before using cannabis for fibromyalgia.

Benefits

Potential benefits of medical cannabis for fibromyalgia include:

• Pain relief: Cannabis may help reduce chronic pain and muscle stiffness.
• Better sleep: Cannabis may improve sleep in people with fibromyalgia.
• Reduced anxiety and depression: Certain cannabis compounds can help with mood and stress levels.
• Lower inflammation: Certain cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory effects that can help with pain and swelling.
• Reduced medication intake: Medical cannabis may help reduce the need for other medications.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) relief: Cannabis may relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which often occurs alongside fibromyalgia.
• Headache relief: Cannabis may help with headaches experienced by people with fibromyalgia.

Risks and side effects

As with any medication, cannabis can have side effects.

• Dizziness and drowsiness: Cannabis may make you feel drowsy or lightheaded.
• Dry mouth: You might experience dry mouth after consuming cannabis.
• Confusion and impairment: THC may cause memory issues or difficulty concentrating.
• Dependency: Long-term use may lead to dependency.

Is it legal?

Cannabis laws vary by state. In some states, having fibromyalgia qualifies you for a medical cannabis card. In other states, you can qualify through a related symptom like chronic pain.

If you qualify for medical cannabis in your state, you’ll need to get a doctor’s recommendation before you can apply for a medical cannabis card.

More about fibromyalgia

Researchers still aren’t sure what causes fibromyalgia. But it’s likely related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Fibromyalgia often runs in families, and it may be triggered by trauma or an infection. Symptoms include:

• Widespread pain
• Extreme sensitivity to touch
• Chronic fatigue
• Brain fog
• Headaches
• Restless leg syndrome
• Digestive problems like IBS

There is no diagnostic test for fibromyalgia. Your doctor will diagnose you based on the severity of your symptoms and by ruling out other health conditions.

Other treatments for fibromyalgia

There is no cure for fibromyalgia. But the right treatments can help you manage your symptoms.

Traditional therapies

Your doctor may recommend medications and other forms of treatment, such as:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or prescription drugs like pregabalin can help you manage chronic pain.
• Antidepressants: Medications like duloxetine (Cymbalta) and sertraline (Zoloft) can relieve symptoms of depression.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Therapy can help you navigate the challenges of living with a chronic condition. It can also help you manage stress, a common trigger for fibromyalgia symptoms.

Natural and alternative therapies

Along with traditional treatments, some natural and alternative therapies may provide symptom relief.

• Exercise: Low-impact activities like yoga and swimming may help with pain and mobility issues.
• Dietary changes: Lowering your sugar intake and avoiding inflammatory foods like gluten may improve symptoms.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture may help with chronic pain.
• Massage: Massage therapy can improve symptoms like pain, anxiety, and depression.

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for fibromyalgia

Medical cannabis may relieve certain fibromyalgia symptoms. However, it’s best to use it alongside other forms of treatment. Talk with your doctor before using cannabis for fibromyalgia, especially if you’re taking medication.

In some states, having fibromyalgia or a related symptom qualifies you for a medical cannabis card. If you qualify in your state, contact Leafwell to start the process through our telehealth services.

Frequently asked questions

Get the answers to frequently asked questions about cannabis for fibromyalgia.

Is cannabis good for fibromyalgia?

Cannabis may help you manage pain, sleeping problems, anxiety, and other symptoms related to fibromyalgia.

Can you get a medical marijuana card if you have fibromyalgia?

That depends on your state. Check your state’s list of qualifying conditions to see if you can legally access medical cannabis.

Are there cannabis-based prescription medications for fibromyalgia?

There is no FDA-approved cannabis medication for fibromyalgia.

How long does it take for CBD to work for fibromyalgia?

That depends on the product type you’re using. Most products take about 30 minutes to work, while edibles can take up to 2 hours.

You may need to use CBD for several days to feel its full benefits.

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