The holistic effects of medical cannabis compared to opioids on pain experience in Finnish patients with chronic pain.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Medical cannabis (MC) is increasingly used for chronic pain, but it is unclear how it aids in pain management. Previous literature suggests that MC could holistically alter the pain experience instead of only targeting pain intensity. However, this hypothesis has not been previously systematically tested.

Method

A retrospective internet survey was used in a sample of Finnish chronic pain patients (40 MC users and 161 opioid users). The patients evaluated statements describing positive and negative phenomenological effects of the medicine. The two groups were propensity score matched to control for possible confounding factors.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis revealed three experience factors: Negative Side Effects, Positive Holistic Effects, and Positiv

SUBMITTER: Jylkka J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10634036 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature