Medicinal Cannabis for Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Review

Author(s): Valdecir Carlos Tadei, Bruna Oliveira Lopes, Leonardo Lourenço Zukeran, Isabela Maraccini Chueire, Laís Franciele Santana Portela, Regina Helena Morganti Fornari Chueire

Cannabis sativa is a plant that has been used for millennia in the treatment of conditions such as chronic pain, rheumatism and epilepsy. Biochemical and molecular studies have isolated its components, which are known as cannabinoids, and have mapped a complex system of endogenous molecules and receptors, known as the endocannabinoid system. Studies report the importance of this system in the physiopathology of different organic disorders, such as fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s disease and neoplasms. Advances in Brazilian legislation have enabled the investigation and use of cannabis oil in the treatment of illnesses and there is growing interest in the potential of medicinal cannabis for the treatment of conditions associated with chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia. Studies have been developed on the safety and effectiveness of cannabinoids for the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia. However, long-term prospective clinical studies involving patients with fibromyalgia treated with medicinal cannabis oil are needed, with a focus on aspects related to pain, anxiety, depression and quality of life.

Cannabis sativa, Endocannabinoid System, Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia

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