Medical Cannabis vs. Traditional Painkillers for Chronic Pain

Nov 6

Unfortunately, chronic pain is a problem that affects millions of people. It’s tough to manage, and finding the right treatment can be even tougher. Doctors have prescribed traditional painkillers like opioids and NSAIDs for years. Recently however, medical cannabis has gained traction as a popular alternative. Here we’re going to break down the key differences so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.

Traditional Painkillers

Traditional painkillers are well-known options for pain relief, hence the word- traditional. Here are the main types of traditional painkillers:

Opioids

Common opioids are strong drugs like morphine and oxycodone. They work by changing how your brain processes pain. It’s imporant to remember that although they may be powerful, they can often lead to addiction.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

Common options for NSAIDs include ibuprofen and naproxen. Drugs like these help reduce inflammation and ease pain away. They are safer than opioids but can sometimes cause stomach and heart problems with long-term use.

Pain Relief Effectiveness

Opioids and NSAIDs can both relieve pain. However, over time, your body may get used to them by building up a tolerance. This means you might need higher doses to feel similar effects. This is especially risky when it comes to opioids because of how addictive they can be. NSAIDs aren’t without their issues either. If taken long-term, they can lead to stomach bleeding or increased heart risks.

Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis comes from the cannabis plant and contains certain compounds called cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. THC is the compound that makes you feel “high,” while CBD does not. Both interact with the body’s natural systems to help manage pain and inflammation.

Cannabis is particularly effective for nerve pain, which traditional painkillers sometimes can’t address. Studies also show that it might help people cut down on opioids, which can be a safer alternative for some.

Comparing Effectiveness

Here’s a look at how they compare:

• Opioids: Effective but come with a high risk of dependency and overdose.

• NSAIDs: Good for inflammation-related pain but have risks with long-term use.

• Medical Cannabis: Promising for certain pain types, especially nerve pain, with fewer severe side effects.

Safety and Side Effects

Each of these options has side effects to consider:

• Opioids: Can lead to addiction, constipation, and serious risks like respiratory issues.

• NSAIDs: May cause stomach bleeding, kidney issues, and increase heart risks with long use.

• Medical Cannabis: Generally mild side effects, like dry mouth or dizziness. However, it can impair thinking and coordination.

When compared to opioids, medical cannabis tends to have fewer severe side effects. For those who may be worried about addiction or dependency, medical cannabis may be particularly appealing. It’s important to note that we need further research to get a more complete understanding of its full effects over the long term.

Accessibility Issues

Availability is a big factor when it comes to medical cannabis. In many places, medical cannabis is only allowed with a medical card or is still illegal. Traditional painkillers, while controlled, are easier to access with a prescription. However, opioid prescriptions have tighter restrictions now due to the addiction crisis.

If you’re thinking about trying medical cannabis, check your local laws by looking up your state’s website. If medical cannabis is available in your area, speak with a qualified medical provider to see if you qualify.

Get a UT Medical Card

What’s Right for You?

A Quick Comparison:

• Opioids: Good for short-term relief but risky for long-term use.

• NSAIDs: Useful for inflammatory pain but watch out for stomach and heart risks.

• Medical Cannabis: Potentially safer for long-term use with fewer severe side effects.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to managing chronic pain, painkillers and cannabis have their place. Opioids and NSAIDs are directly effective, but they come with serious risks that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially with extended use. Medical cannabis might be a better choice for some, especially those who want a natural option with a potentially safer profile.

Managing chronic pain is personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Talk to your healthcare provider about the options. With their guidance, you can find the right path to relief.

Colby J.