Medical Conditions
Evidence-based summaries of cannabinoid research for major medical conditions. Each page covers mechanisms, clinical evidence, key studies, and safety considerations.
Chronic Pain
G89
Most-studied indication for medical cannabis
Cannabinoids reduce neuropathic and inflammatory pain via CB1/CB2 receptors. Multiple systematic reviews support modest analgesic efficacy.
Anxiety Disorders
F41
CBD shows anxiolytic effects; THC is dose-dependent
CBD reduces anxiety via 5-HT1A agonism. THC is biphasic — low doses anxiolytic, high doses anxiogenic. Growing RCT evidence for CBD.
Epilepsy
G40
Strongest evidence — FDA-approved CBD (Epidiolex)
CBD (Epidiolex) is FDA-approved for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Multiple RCTs demonstrate significant seizure reduction.
PTSD
F43.1
Emerging evidence for nightmare reduction and fear extinction
THC reduces PTSD nightmares; CBD may enhance fear extinction. Nabilone approved in Canada for PTSD nightmares. Multiple RCTs ongoing.
Multiple Sclerosis
G35
Nabiximols (Sativex) approved in 30+ countries for spasticity
Nabiximols (THC:CBD 1:1) is approved for MS spasticity in 30+ countries. Strong evidence for spasticity; emerging evidence for pain and bladder dysfunction.
Cancer & Oncology
C00-D49
Antiemetic evidence strongest; direct antitumor research ongoing
Dronabinol and nabilone are FDA-approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea. Preclinical evidence for direct antitumor effects; clinical trials ongoing.
Sleep Disorders
G47
Short-term sleep improvement; REM suppression with THC
Cannabis improves sleep onset and duration short-term. THC suppresses REM sleep. CBD may improve sleep in anxiety-related insomnia. Long-term data limited.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
K50-K51
Symptom relief evidence; remission induction limited
Cannabis reduces IBD symptoms (pain, nausea, appetite) but has not demonstrated mucosal healing or remission induction in RCTs. CB2 receptor pathway is a key research target.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making treatment decisions. Evidence levels reflect the current state of peer-reviewed research as of June 2026.