A research team from the University of Central Florida's College of Medicine conducted a study of patient perceptions of medical cannabis's effectiveness in managing symptoms associated with inflammatory arthritis forms, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). RA and RsA are autoimmune conditions characterized by joint pain, stiffness, inflammation, and other debilitating symptoms. PsA also affects the tendons, ligaments, and skin. The findings published in Cureus suggest that RA and RsA patients reported a history of chronic cannabis use and short-term reduction of pain, inflammation, and fatigue.
The cohort consisted of 290 patients diagnosed with either rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA). 84.9% reported an RA diagnosis, and 15.1% reported a PsA diagnosis. Most participants were women (82.3%), and 17.7% were male. The mean participant ages were 57.1 years for RA and 56.2 years for PsA. Study participants reported their pain levels before cannabis treatment and following sustained cannabis use.
Analysis of survey data showed that approximately 20% of participants used cannabis products to manage symptoms. The study indicated that RA patients predominantly inhaled cannabis flower, while PsA patients commonly used topical cannabinoid formulations such as creams and transdermal patches. The researchers believe that RA patients may prefer inhalants for their rapid systemic absorption and more immediate pain relief. They also suggest that PsA patients prefer topical formulations for their ability to provide localized relief for skin discomfort.
The participants reported significant decreases in pain severity following cannabis consumption, as well as improvements in inflammation, stiffness, and fatigue. Mean pain levels dropped from 6.16 before medical cannabis treatment to 3.89 following treatment.
Many patients report decreased use of prescription opioids after beginning medical cannabis treatment. The researchers believe the findings suggest that continued research on medical cannabis treatments for arthritis patients is critical.