Cannabis contains many biologically active compounds, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Research has found that cannabis or cannabis-derived medicines may offer therapeutic benefits for certain medical conditions, although effectiveness depends on the condition, formulation, dose, and individual.
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Evidence-supported medical uses
Chronic pain
Cannabis-based medicines may help some adults with chronic pain, particularly:
Neuropathic (nerve) pain
Pain related to multiple sclerosis
Some cancer-related pain (often alongside other treatments)
The degree of pain relief is generally modest, and side effects can limit use.
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
Certain prescription cannabinoid medications can reduce severe nausea and vomiting in people undergoing chemotherapy when standard treatments are insufficient.
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Some cannabis-based medications may help reduce:
Muscle spasticity
Muscle stiffness
Pain associated with MS
Certain forms of epilepsy
Prescription CBD has been shown to reduce seizures in some rare epilepsy syndromes, including:
Dravet syndrome
Lennox–Gastaut syndrome
Tuberous sclerosis complex
Palliative care
Some patients with advanced illnesses report improvements in:
Appetite
Sleep
Pain
Overall quality of life
Potential benefits under investigation
Research is ongoing into whether cannabis or cannabinoids may help with:
Anxiety disorders (results are mixed)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Inflammatory conditions
Migraine
Sleep disorders
Parkinson’s disease symptoms
At present, evidence for these uses is limited or inconsistent, so cannabis is not considered a standard treatment.
Possible risks
Cannabis can also cause unwanted effects, including:
Impaired memory, attention, and coordination
Drowsiness or dizziness
Anxiety or panic
Increased heart rate
Dependence (especially with frequent, high-THC use)
Heavy or long-term use, particularly starting during adolescence, has been associated with a higher risk of cannabis use disorder and certain mental health problems in susceptible individuals.
THC vs. CBD
| THC | CBD |
|---|---|
| Produces the “high” | Does not produce a high |
| May help with pain, nausea, and appetite | May help with some seizure disorders and is being studied for other conditions |
| More likely to impair coordination and cognition | Generally has fewer intoxicating effects |
Bottom line
Cannabis has well-supported medical uses for some conditions—particularly chronic pain, chemotherapy-related nausea, multiple sclerosis spasticity, and certain rare epilepsies. However, it is not a cure-all, and the balance of benefits and risks depends on the individual, the specific condition, and the type of cannabis product used. If you’re considering cannabis for a medical condition, it’s best to discuss it with a healthcare professional who can help weigh the potential benefits and risks in your situation.