Cannabis Debate

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued new guidelines cautioning against the use of medical cannabis for most chronic noncancer pain patients. Based on over 30 clinical studies, the ACP found that potential harms—addiction, cognitive issues, and organ risks—outweigh modest benefits in pain and function. Inhaled cannabis is not recommended, and vulnerable groups like adolescents, pregnant women, and those with mental illness should avoid it entirely. Limited benefits may exist for neuropathic pain using balanced THC-CBD products. The ACP urges doctors to guide patients with accurate, evidence-based information, as most currently rely on non-medical sources like dispensary workers.

Footnote

Kansagara, D., MD, MCR (2025, April 4). Cannabis or Cannabinoids for the Management of Chronic Noncancer Pain: Best Practice Advice From the American College of Physicians. Annuals of Internal Medicine. Retrieved April 19, 2025, from https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/ANNALS-24-03319