Did you know that over 250,000 Australians hold a prescription for medical cannabis? The use of cannabinoids in Australia has significantly increased since its legalisation for medical purposes in 2016. Patients suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and even neurodegenerative conditions are among those benefiting from these compounds.
But what makes cannabinoids so effective? The answer lies in their interaction with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system, a biological network that regulates pain, mood, sleep, immune responses, and more.
Despite the growing acceptance of medical cannabis, many people remain uncertain about cannabinoids.
- What exactly are they?
- How do they function within the body?
- Are they truly safe for long-term medical use?
With misinformation and stigma surrounding cannabis, it’s crucial to have a clear, science-backed understanding of these compounds. This guide will examine cannabinoids, their types, medical benefits, and risks.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant.
Scientists have identified over 100 cannabinoids, each with unique effects on the human body. These compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signalling network regulating vital functions such as sleep, mood, pain perception, and immune response.
Without the ECS, our bodies would struggle to maintain homeostasis, the balance necessary for overall health and well-being.
Among the many cannabinoids, two are the most well-known and extensively studied:
Tetrahydrocannabinol
This is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use.
However, THC also has powerful medicinal properties, including pain relief, nausea reduction, muscle spasticity control, and appetite stimulation. It is commonly used for conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Cannabidiol
Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not cause intoxication.
Instead, it offers a range of therapeutic benefits, including antianxiety, anti-inflammatory, anti-seizure, and neuroprotective properties. CBD has gained popularity for managing symptoms of anxiety disorders, epilepsy, chronic pain, and inflammation.
Types of Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids can be broadly classified into three categories based on their source and function:
Endocannabinoids
The human body naturally produces these and is critical in maintaining balance. The two most well-studied endocannabinoids include:
- Anandamide (AEA): Often called the “bliss molecule,” anandamide regulates mood, appetite, memory, and pain perception.
- 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG): This endocannabinoid influences immune function, cardiovascular health, and brain activity.
Phytocannabinoids
Found in the cannabis plant, these compounds interact with the ECS similarly to endocannabinoids. The most notable phytocannabinoids include THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBC, each offering different therapeutic effects.
Synthetic Cannabinoids
These are lab-created cannabinoids used in medical research and pharmaceutical drugs. Some well-known examples include:
- Nabiximols (Sativex) – Used for multiple sclerosis and neuropathic pain.
- Dronabinol (Marinol) – Prescribed for chemotherapy-induced nausea and appetite stimulation in AIDS patients.
- Unregulated synthetic cannabinoids (e.g., “Spice” and “K2”) are often dangerous and should be avoided due to severe side effects.
Health And Medical Benefits of Cannabinoids
Pain Management
Chronic pain affects one in five, leading many to seek alternatives to opioid painkillers. Cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, have shown significant pain-relieving effects by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the nervous system. They have been used to manage pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and migraines.
Anxiety and Depression Relief
CBD interacts with serotonin receptors, which regulate mood and emotional responses. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may cause dependency, CBD offers a natural and non-addictive alternative for managing generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Epilepsy Treatment
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication, for treating severe epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Research indicates that CBD significantly reduces seizure frequency in patients with these conditions.
Sleep Disorders
Billions of people suffer from insomnia and sleep disturbances. Cannabinoids like CBN and CBD promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Studies suggest cannabinoids help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, making them a valuable alternative to prescription sleep aids.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
CBD and other cannabinoids possess strong anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective for Crohn’s disease, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. They help reduce inflammation and support immune system regulation.
Cancer Treatment Support
While cannabinoids help manage side effects like nausea and pain, their potential role in slowing tumour growth remains under investigation.
Neuroprotective Effects
Research indicates that cannabinoids may have neuroprotective properties, potentially benefiting patients with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis by protecting brain cells from degeneration.
Risks and Side Effects of Cannabinoids: What You Need to Know
Psychoactive Effects of THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol, the compound responsible for cannabis’s intoxicating effects, can cause dizziness, confusion, paranoia, and even hallucinations in high doses.
While some users may experience relaxation, others might feel heightened anxiety, especially if they are new to cannabis or consume too much at once.
Potential for Dependency and Tolerance Development
Long-term use of THC may lead to dependency in some individuals, particularly those who use it frequently for recreational purposes.
Regular use can also result in tolerance, meaning users need higher doses to achieve the same effects, increasing the risk of dependence. In contrast, CBD is considered non-addictive and does not lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Interactions with Medications and Health Conditions
Cannabinoids can interact with various prescription medications, including blood thinners, antidepressants, and painkillers.
These interactions may alter the effectiveness of the medication or cause unwanted side effects, making it essential for patients to consult a healthcare provider before using medical cannabis.
Lung Health and Respiratory Risks
Smoking cannabis can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory issues, especially for individuals with asthma or chronic bronchitis. Alternative consumption methods such as oils, tinctures, edibles, and vaporisers provide safer options that minimise lung irritation.
Final Thoughts
Cannabinoids have revolutionised modern medicine, providing new hope for patients with chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. As scientific research continues to uncover the full potential of cannabinoids, their role in healthcare is expected to expand further.
While medical cannabis offers numerous benefits, responsible use under medical supervision remains crucial. Patients should always seek professional advice before starting cannabinoid-based treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness.
For Australians seeking legal access to medical cannabis, explore the convenience of ordering your prescriptions online at Folium, Sydney’s premium speciality pharmacy for rare prescriptions, which provides an easy and regulated way to obtain prescriptions.
