Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that cannabinoids (CBD) are beneficial for a range of clinical conditions, including chronic pain, sleep disorders, osteoarthritis inflammation, anxiety, depression, and enhanced quality of life. For patients with chronic pain and arthritis inflammation, traditionally pain-relieving medications, including opioids, have been prescribed for pain relief but with increased risks of addiction and adverse effects with poor outcomes. Medical cannabis use is an emerging treatment alternative to prescription opioids and as an adjunctive to diminish the use of opioids addiction. This project objectively reviews the works of literature on the challenges of proposing a prescribed treatment plan with the use of cannabinol products compared to the standard of care prescribing anti-inflammatory medication and opioids drugs. This project explores the most recent developments, from the preclinical trials to the most advanced clinical trials, and the patients' perspectives. A strong recommendation is to implement study findings and educate the healthcare provider, worker, and stakeholders to develop a proactive public health approach that builds power in prevention measures. Also, to encourage the healthcare arena to maintain evidence-based skilled knowledge in pain management of non-opioid alternatives. Thereby, it's recommended to continue to monitor current practice outcomes and the literature for further studies on medical cannabis use as an alternative or adjunctive to prescription opioids.
Date of publication
Spring 4-25-2022
Document Type
MSN Capstone Project
Language
english
Persistent identifier
http://hdl.handle.net/10950/3977
Degree
Masters in Nursing Education
Recommended Citation
Seaton, Brenda F., "Medical Cannabis: Alternative to Opioids for the Treatment of Chronic Pain" (2022). MSN Capstone Projects. Paper 202.
http://hdl.handle.net/10950/3977