USE OF Cannabis sativa DERIVATIVES IN THE TREATMENT OF FIBROMYALGIA: A LITERATURE REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18554/k1b9gv41Keywords:
rheumatological disease, chronic pain, medicinal cannabis, alternative therapy, endocannabinoid systemAbstract
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that significantly compromises the quality of life of affected patients. This prevalent rheumatological disease is characterized by chronic musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and psychological issues. The global prevalence varies from 0.2% to 6.6%, with a higher incidence in women. In addition to the physical and psychological impact, fibromyalgia generates high costs for healthcare systems due to the constant need for medical assistance. In this context, the use of derivatives from Cannabis sativa, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), has emerged as a promising therapeutic alternative, especially for those who no longer respond to conventional treatments. Literature reviews indicate that cannabinoids may play a role in pain modulation and improvement of quality of life, with fewer adverse effects compared to traditional medications like opioids. Initial clinical studies have shown positive results, including reduced pain intensity and significant improvements in quality-of-life measures. THC and CBD have demonstrated potential to alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms and reduce opioid dependence, offering new hope for patients. However, research in this area is still limited, and there is a need for more long-term studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids. This review highlighted the importance of exploring treatment alternatives for fibromyalgia, considering the growing interest in medicinal cannabis and a more effective approach to chronic pain management. Ongoing investigation paves the way for new therapeutic strategies aimed at improving the quality of life for affected patients.
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