Complex biological reasons and societal conditions underlie the particular pain management challenges associated with sickle cell disease (SCD). The overuse of opioids has raised worries about side effects and stigma. Cannabis is becoming a more popular option for SCD patients seeking pain relief as it becomes legal in the US, Europe, and other countries. This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of using cannabis to treat pain brought on by SCD.
The problem with opioids
Opioids have traditionally been the primary treatment option for SCD-related pain. However, the search for alternatives is intensifying because of their association with unfavorable outcomes, bigotry, and stigma. In view of recent studies demonstrating incorrect dosing and increasing stigmatization of SCD patients obtaining opioids, it is imperative to investigate alternate pain management methods.
More states are allowing the recreational and medicinal use of cannabis, and individuals with sickle cell disease are considering this option. At the moment, 20 states allow the recreational use of cannabis, accounting for 45.7% of the population. However, 37 states—home to 72% of the US population—have legalized the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Researchers can now investigate the potential advantages and disadvantages of cannabis use in the context of sickle cell illness.
Examining the potential advantages of cannabis therapy
Several studies suggest that cannabis may be helpful in lowering sickle cell disease-related discomfort. However, before embracing cannabis as an acceptable substitute, one must carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using it. Studies that connect prior cannabis usage to bone avascular necrosis provide insight into the intricate biology of sickle cell disease (SCD), a challenging condition for researchers to understand.
There is inconsistent information about how cannabis affects sickle cell disease patients’ use of medical services. Studies on ER visits and hospitalizations appear to be on the decline, while studies on hospitalizations for vaso-occlusive crises—particularly those involving smoking or inhalation—indicate a rise in these cases. Prospective and randomized controlled trials are necessary to fully comprehend the effect of cannabis on pain crises and related side consequences.
It is crucial to assess the potential impact of cannabis usage on hospital visits, as pain crises result in transfusions for as many as 50% of people with sickle cell disease. In the lack of other justifications, transfusion for pain crises is not recommended due to possible risks, including alloimmunization.
Concerns are voiced about cannabis’s potential immunomodulatory qualities and potential impact on the biology of sickle cell disease. Cannabis’s anti-inflammatory properties can lessen inflammatory reactions during vaso-occlusive crises. To completely comprehend the complex relationships between cannabis, SCD biology, and pain pathways, more research is required.
Overcoming stigmas
Even though opiate abuse is still a medical issue, there is still stigma associated with cannabis use. For SCD patients looking for alternate pain medication, outdated beliefs provide a barrier to access. Cannabis may provide a unique pain solution for sickle cell disease (SCD) patients by investigating different ways of delivery and debunking false beliefs.
In the field of SCD pain management, cannabis shows promise as a new area. But arguing for or against its use necessitates a thorough comprehension of the advantages and disadvantages. Given the distinct biology of sickle cell disease (SCD) and the possible health effects of cannabis, comprehensive investigation is required. It is critical to understand how these drugs affect SCD patients’ outcomes as the use of marijuana recreationally rises.