AMAZON #1
BEST SELLER
IN PAIN MEDICINE
AMAZON #1
BEST SELLER
IN PAIN MEDICINE
ADDITIONAL EDUCATION IN PROGRESS...
WHAT IS THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY? ... [Medical Kn. 2x Q 2-3mos]
Healthcare – $4.9T U.S. market; 14.7 M workers; aging pop., AI integration, outpatient growth.
Education – $1.4T U.S.; 11 M workers; EdTech + AI boom, hybrid learning, reskilling demand.
Cannabis – $60B global; ~425K U.S. jobs; legal expansion, AI cultivation, medical use growth.
The average U.S. spending on prescription medications per person is approximately $1,217.85 for 2022.
Healthcare Industry — Definition:
The healthcare industry is the system of organizations, professionals, and technologies that deliver, finance, and support medical care, wellness, and preventive services. It includes hospitals, clinics, physicians, pharmacies, insurers, laboratories, medical device firms, and biotech companies, working collectively to maintain, restore, or improve health.
It spans public and private sectors, employing over 14 million people in the U.S., and accounts for about 17–18% of GDP, encompassing care delivery, research, insurance, pharmaceuticals, and digital health innovation.
Total U.S. Healthcare Expenditure (2023) = ≈ $4.9 trillion (~ 17.6 % of GDP)
Per Capita Spending = ≈ $14,570
Projected Growth (2023–2033) = ~ 5 % annually, expected to exceed $7 trillion by 2033.
Employment = ≈ 14.7 million healthcare workers (9 % of U.S. labor force).
Top Sub-Sectors by Employment = Hospitals > Ambulatory Care > Residential Care > Staffing > Allied Health.
Sector % of Total Spending Notes
Ambulatory Care (Outpatient) 42.2 % Fastest-growing segment; shift from inpatient care.
Inpatient Hospital Care 23.8 % Core acute care; major cost driver.
Retail Prescription Drugs 13.7 % Largest growth area by volume; biosimilars and specialty drugs rising.
Nursing / Residential Care 6–7 % Aging population drives increase.
Home Health & Telemedicine 4–5 % Rapid expansion post-COVID.
Payer Annual Spending % of Total Notes
Private Health Insurance ≈ $1.28 trillion 26 % Largest single payer source.
Medicare ≈ $1.02 trillion 21 % Grew 8.4 % in 2023; covers ~66 million beneficiaries.
Medicaid ≈ $805 billion 16 % Grew 5.7 %; covers ~86 million enrollees.
Out-of-Pocket Spending ≈ $471 billion 10 % Rising with deductibles and co-pays.
Other Government / Private Funds≈ $1.3 trillion 27 % Includes VA, CHIP, employer contributions, and public health.
Condition / Diagnosis Annual U.S. Direct Medical Spending Trend
Low Back & Neck Pain ≈ $134.5 billion Top individual cost category nationwide.
Other Musculoskeletal Pain (arthritis, myalgia) ≈ $129.8 billion Rapid growth with aging population.
Diabetes (all types) ≈ $111 billion Driven by insulin and complications.
Cardiovascular Diseases ≈ $90–100 billion Highest mortality but improved management reduces growth.
Mental Health / Substance Use ≈ $89 billion Teletherapy and integrative care growth.
Cancer (all sites) ≈ $82 billion Immunotherapy and screening drive costs.
Pain (all causes combined) ≈ $261–300 billion (direct) / $560–635 billion (societal) Enormous economic burden including productivity loss.
Outpatient Shift → Most new spending growth occurs in ambulatory services.
AI & Automation in Healthcare → Cost savings projected >$150 billion by 2030 via workflow efficiency.
Pain and Chronic Disease Dominance → >$1 trillion annual economic impact.
Telehealth Expansion → >70 % of providers offer hybrid care models by 2025.
Preventive and Integrative Care Growth → Emphasis on nutrition, mental health, and natural therapies to reduce chronic care costs.
Medicare’s Growth Impact → Spending growth tied to aging boomers; by 2030, Medicare may exceed $1.6 trillion annually.
Pain and musculoskeletal disorders consume >$250 billion direct costs, offering the largest ROI for AI-driven analytics and alternative therapies (e.g., cannabis, neuromodulation, regenerative medicine).
Aligning new care models with outpatient, data-driven, preventive frameworks can reduce system costs while capturing reimbursement growth.
Cross-sector synergy (AI + pain + cannabis) aligns with Medicare’s priority areas: reducing opioid use, fall prevention, and chronic pain management.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). National Health Expenditure Data 2023. https://www.cms.gov/data-research/statistics-trends-and-reports/national-health-expenditure-data/historical
American Medical Association (AMA). Trends in Health Care Spending. https://www.ama-assn.org/about/ama-research/trends-health-care-spending
Health Data Institute (IHME). Tracking U.S. Health Care Spending by Condition and County. https://www.healthdata.org/research-analysis/library/tracking-us-health-care-spending-health-condition-and-county
Dieleman JL et al. U.S. Health Care Spending by Condition, 1996–2016. JAMA. 2020; 323(9):863–884. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054840/
Institute of Medicine (IOM). Relieving Pain in America: Blueprint for Transforming Prevention, Care, Education, and Research. National Academies Press, 2011. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92521/
Altarum Institute. Health Care Employment Growth Projections 2023–2033. https://altarum.org/news-and-insights/health-care-employment-growth-projected-moderate-remain-higher-other-industries
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Healthcare Occupations in 2022. https://www.bls.gov/spotlight/2023/healthcare-occupations-in-2022/home.htm
HRSA (Bureau of Health Workforce). State of the Health Workforce Report 2024. https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/state-of-the-health-workforce-report-2024.pdf
Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Medicare and Medicaid Spending Data 2023. https://www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-spending-and-financing-fact-sheet/
Cannabis Industry — Definition:
The cannabis industry is the network of businesses, professionals, and technologies involved in the cultivation, processing, distribution, research, and sale of cannabis and cannabinoid-based products for medical, scientific, and adult-use purposes.
It includes licensed growers, dispensaries, testing labs, manufacturers, pharmaceutical developers, and ancillary service providers (e.g., packaging, compliance, AI, logistics). Globally valued at $60 billion+, it supports ≈ 425,000 U.S. jobs and integrates healthcare, agriculture, biotechnology, and retail sectors under strict regulatory oversight.
Outline of the U.S. Cannabis Industry (2025) — integrating employment segments, major trends, and physician involvement data:
Total Market Value (2024) = ≈ $30 billion (Cannabis Business Times, 2024)
Total Employment = ≈ 425,000–440,000 full-time equivalent jobs (Vangst 2024; KayaPush 2025)
Growth Rate = ~8–10 % annually; projected > $50 billion by 2030.
Top U.S. Employers = Trulieve (≈ 6,000 employees), Curaleaf (≈ 5,500), Green Thumb, Cresco Labs.
Cultivation / Grow Operations – ~30 % of jobs
Growers, trimmers, cultivation technicians.
Trend → automation, LED tech, environmental controls.
Processing / Extraction / Manufacturing – ~17 %
Extraction techs, product formulation, packaging.
Trend → solventless extraction, GMP compliance.
Retail / Dispensary Operations – ~23 %
Budtenders, store managers, patient educators.
Trend → medical-wellness integration, loyalty apps.
Testing / Compliance / Distribution – ~30 %
QA labs, logistics, regulatory consulting.
Trend → third-party verification, ISO accreditation.
Ancillary / AI & Tech Services – ~10–12 % (Overlap)
Software, AI automation, marketing platforms.
Trend → AI chatbots, precision cultivation analytics.
Florida – Trulieve HQ; ≈ 4,000+ staff; largest medical market.
Arizona – ≈ 500–800 Trulieve and affiliate jobs.
Pennsylvania – ≈ 600+ Trulieve and partner positions.
Emerging Markets → Ohio, Maryland, Missouri (post-legalization surges).
Physicians in Medical Cannabis = 10–95 % report patient inquiries; 10–30 % actively recommend.
Physicians Using AI Tools (AMA 2024) = ≈ 66 %.
Pain-Management Specialists Using AI → rapid growth but no precise count; focus on predictive analytics and decision-support.
AI Integration → patient education, inventory forecasting, and compliance automation.
Medical Expansion → neuropathy, autism, pain, PTSD as new approved conditions.
Sustainability → solar grow operations, water recapture systems.
Global Normalization → Germany, UK, Colombia, Thailand expanding legal frameworks.
Investment Shift → from retail to R&D and wellness-based brands.
Tax Revenue (U.S., 2024) ≈ $3.2 billion.
Average Salary ≈ $58,000 (± wide variance).
Projected Jobs 2030 > 800,000.
The education industry—also called the learning, training, and knowledge economy—comprises all organizations, institutions, and technologies dedicated to teaching, instruction, and human capital development. It includes public and private schools, universities, online education platforms, vocational and workforce training providers, publishers, educational technology (EdTech) firms, research institutions, and government agencies that regulate and fund education.
This industry’s mission extends beyond formal schooling: it also drives economic productivity, social equity, and workforce innovation, serving as a foundation for health, technology, and national competitiveness.
U.S. Market Value (2021): ≈ $1.41 trillion, projected to reach $3.12 trillion by 2030 (CAGR ≈ 9.6%).
Global Market Value (2023): ≈ $7.6 trillion, representing nearly 8 % of global GDP, expected to exceed $10 trillion by 2030.
Government Share: Public funding accounts for ~60–70 % of global education spending.
Higher Education (U.S.) Revenue: ≈ $993 billion (2020–21 academic year).
Per-Student Cost (Public 4-Year Institutions): ≈ $13,540 per full-time equivalent student (instructional costs only).
Private Sector Share: Private universities, online academies, and corporate learning programs make up roughly 25–30 % of total U.S. educational expenditure.
Employment: Over 11 million workers in U.S. education (teachers, administrators, and support staff), with education and health services combined representing ~15 % of total national employment.
Segment Share of Total Spending Key Features
K-12 Education ~45 % Dominated by public schools funded through state and local taxes; strong push toward STEM and AI literacy.
Higher Education ~35 % Includes public, private, and community colleges; rising tuition costs offset by online degree programs.
Corporate & Workforce Training ~10 % Rapid growth via reskilling and upskilling programs (LinkedIn Learning, Coursera for Business).
EdTech & Online Learning ~8–10 % AI-driven adaptive learning, AR/VR classrooms, and hybrid education ecosystems.
Vocational & Continuing Education ~5 % Focus on trades, certifications, and adult education.
AI is reshaping curriculum design, tutoring, grading, and student analytics.
Generative AI tools (like ChatGPT, Khanmigo, and ScribeSense) personalize learning paths and automate administrative tasks.
AI-powered adaptive learning platforms can improve student retention by up to 20–30 %.
Predictive analytics in universities optimize enrollment, identify at-risk students, and guide financial aid allocation.
The U.S. EdTech market was valued at $42.3 billion (2023) and projected to reach $90.6 billion by 2030 (CAGR ≈ 11.5%).
Global EdTech spending expected to surpass $400 billion by 2030.
Growth fueled by cloud platforms, gamified learning, virtual reality classrooms, and mobile education access.
Post-COVID hybrid models are now standard; over 65 % of U.S. universities offer hybrid degree tracks.
K-12 districts integrate blended models using Google Classroom, Canvas, and AI-driven reading apps.
Home-schooling enrollment has grown > 40 % since 2020, supported by digital tools.
Automation and AI displacement drive demand for lifelong learning.
Global corporate reskilling market projected to exceed $400 billion by 2030.
Companies like IBM, Google, and Microsoft now offer certification programs rivaling traditional college credentials.
Rising tuition and student debt (>$1.6 trillion) push universities to adopt income-share and subscription models.
Federal and state governments expanding free community college initiatives and loan forgiveness programs.
Emphasis shifting toward value-based education — measurable outcomes and employability metrics.
International student mobility rebounding post-pandemic, exceeding 5.6 million students globally in 2024.
Cross-border degree partnerships and global digital universities (Minerva, Coursera Global Campus) expanding rapidly.
Administrative Efficiency: Reduces paperwork and manual grading by 30–50 %.
Learning Personalization: Machine learning models tailor difficulty and pacing, improving academic performance.
Predictive Analytics: Helps institutions cut dropout rates by identifying student disengagement early.
Content Generation: AI creates customized syllabi, quizzes, and study materials.
Equity Enhancement: Automated translation and accessibility tools reduce barriers for multilingual and disabled learners.
Economic Impact: AI in education projected to contribute >$20 billion in annual U.S. cost savings by 2030.
Cost Inflation: Education costs have outpaced general inflation by ~3 % annually since 1980.
Teacher Shortages: Projected shortfall of 200,000+ teachers by 2025 in U.S. public schools.
Digital Divide: Unequal access to broadband and devices still limits participation in low-income areas.
Credential Saturation: Rising number of online certifications challenges traditional degree valuation.
Facts & Factors Research. U.S. Education Market Size, Growth, Trends, Forecast 2030. https://www.fnfresearch.com/us-education-market
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Postsecondary Institution Revenues 2020–21. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cud/
NCES Fast Facts. Expenditures per Student at Public Institutions 2021. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=75
HolonIQ. The Size and Shape of the Global Education Market. https://www.holoniq.com/notes/the-size-shape-of-the-global-education-market
Grand View Research. U.S. Education Technology Market Outlook 2023–2030. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/education-technology-market/united-states
World Bank. Global Education Expenditure Overview. https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS
UNESCO Institute for Statistics. Global Education Monitoring Report 2024. https://uis.unesco.org
McKinsey & Company. The Future of Work and the Role of Reskilling. (2023). https://www.mckinsey.com
PwC. AI in Education: From Administration to Analytics. (2024).
Sept 1–3: Building a Strong Foundation for Caregivers & Clinics → 3 posts
Sept 4–6: Medical Cannabis Fundamentals & Practice Calculations → 3 posts
Sept 7–9: Safety First: Risks, Side Effects & Monitoring → 3 posts
Sept 10–13: Lower Back Pain & Osteoarthritis → 4 posts
Sept 14–16: Fibromyalgia, Headaches & Neuropathy → 3 posts
Sept 17–19: Mental Health: Anxiety, PTSD & Depression → 3 posts
Sept 20–23: Cancer Patients: Symptom Relief & Risks → 4 posts
Sept 24–26: Seizures & Neurodegenerative Disorders → 3 posts
Sept 27–30: Special Populations (Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Pregnancy, CV/Metabolic) → 4 posts
https://marijuanaaware.com/agenda-speakers/
Travis Quick – Community Educator
Zach Franckhauser – Educator,Ignacio Rodriguez – Community Educator, Orlando‑area eventslinkedin.com
Claucus Alfaro – Physician & Community Engagement Manager,
Jacody Swor – Lead Community Educator, Sarasotalinkedin.com
Aliza Gammon – Educator, senior‑outreach presenter (unverified)
Lisa Conway – Educator, co‑presenter with Welch & Gammon (unverified)
Vincent C. – Educator / Learning and Development
Saige Petzen – Former Lead Community Educator
Sarah Mitchell – Former Community Educator (pre‑Dec 2021)
Renee
Jenifer Perdomo – Late Educator, cancer survivor & advocate
Cassidy Welch – Former Educator, Central/Northeast programs (unverified)
Alex Ford – Former Educator, stress/anxiety webinars (unverified)
Celeste Barnes – Former Educator (limited information)
Randy Ford – Former Educator (limited information)
Inhalation (seconds–minutes):
1 g TruClear / Distillate Syringe – 85–94% THC (~850–940 mg THC total)
0.8 g TruPOD Vape Cartridge – 80–90% THC (~640–720 mg THC total)
0.5 g 1:1 Vape Cartridge – ~40–45% CBD + ~40–45% THC (~200–225 mg each)
Live Rosin 1 g – 70–85% cannabinoids, THC primary
Cultivar Flower 3.5 g – 24–33%+ THC, 2.5–4%+ terpenes
TruFlower 3.5 g – 18–28% THC, 1–2.5% terpenes
Roll One Flower 3.5 g – 15–22% THC
Ground Flower 7 g – 16–24% THC
Pre‑Rolls 1 g – 15–28% THC
Sublingual / Oral (moderate onset, ~15–45 minutes):
High CBD Tincture 30 mL – 16.7 mg CBD + 0.8 mg THC per mL (500 mg CBD + 25 mg THC total)
1:1 Tincture 15 mL – 16.7 mg CBD + 16.7 mg THC per mL (250 mg each total)
CBN Dream Tincture 15 mL – 10 mg THC + 5 mg CBN per mL (150 mg THC + 75 mg CBN total)
Oral Capsules (slower onset, ~45–120 minutes):
High CBD Capsules 25 ct – 10 mg CBD each, 250 mg total
1:1 Capsules 25 ct – 10 mg CBD + 10 mg THC each, 250 mg each total
CBN Soft Gels 10 ct – 5 mg THC + 5 mg CBN each, 50 mg each total
Edibles (slowest onset, ~1–2 hours):
Standard Edibles (gummies/chocolates) – 10 mg THC per piece, 100 mg total
TruNano Edibles – Nano‑emulsified: faster onset (~30–60 min) than standard edibles
Topical (moderate onset; localized effect, minimal systemic absorption):
Momenta Topical Lotion/Cream – 250 mg THC per container (bottle)
Momenta Topical Gel – 250 mg THC per container (tube/jar)
Also - 1:1 Pain Relief Topical Cream – 100 mg THC + 100 mg CBD per container (lotion pump)
Hybrid Topical Cream – ~250 mg THC (<5 mg CBD), ~2 oz per container
M4MM
SCC POT Trulieve OMMU, Ga medical cannabis or your state rules/reg, FMCCE, CannabisLab, NORML,
MEDICAL CANNABIS & SLEEP
Effects of a cannabidiol/terpene formulation on sleep in individuals with insomnia (RCT), 2025
Details: Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover. N=125 adults with insomnia. Oral CBD 300 mg + terpene blend (linalool, myrcene, limonene, etc.), THC-free.
Results: Marginal ↑ in SWS + REM sleep by 1.3% (SE 0.60; P = .03). Greatest benefit in low baseline SWS/REM (~48 min extra sleep over 4 weeks).
Stats: No effect on total sleep time or HR/HRV; no adverse events.
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39167421/
Acute Effects of Oral Cannabinoids on Sleep and High-Density EEG (Pilot RCT), 2025
Details: n=20 insomnia patients, oral 10 mg THC + 200 mg CBD. Polysomnography + high-density EEG.
Results: ↓ total sleep time by 24.5 min (p = .05), ↓ REM by 33.9 min (p < .001), ↑ REM latency by 65.6 min (p = .008). EEG: ↓ gamma (N2), ↓ delta (N3), ↑ beta/alpha (REM).
Stats: No next-day driving/cognitive impairment; slight ↑ self-reported sleepiness (+0.42, p = .02).
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40631525/
Effectiveness of a Cannabinoid-Based Supplement on Sleep and Health-Related QoL (RCT), 2025
Details: Randomized, placebo-controlled trial (ISRCTN 15022302). Daily cannabinoid supplement vs placebo.
Results: Significant improvements in sleep quality, sleep efficiency, and quality of life.
Stats: Anxiety/mood improved nonsignificantly; no adverse events reported.
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39980821/
Pilot trial of 150 mg CBD nightly for primary insomnia (RCT), 2024
Details: Randomized, placebo-controlled, 2-week trial (n=30). Sublingual CBD isolate 150 mg.
Results: ↑ sleep efficiency and well-being; no significant effect on total sleep time or latency.
Stats: Efficiency ↑ 6% vs placebo; safe and well tolerated.
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38174873/
Medicinal cannabis improves sleep in adults with insomnia (RCT), 2023
Details: Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover. n=29 adults with chronic insomnia. Oil: THC (10 mg/mL) + CBD (15 mg/mL).
Results: ↑ total sleep time (+21 min), ↑ efficiency, ↓ insomnia severity.
Stats: Actigraphy confirmed objective improvements; no safety concerns.
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36539991/
Medical cannabis and cannabinoids for impaired sleep (Systematic Review), 2022
Details: 39 RCTs (≈5,100 participants). Chronic pain and insomnia populations.
Results: Small-to-moderate improvements in sleep quality from cannabinoids.
Stats: Dizziness risk ↑ (RR 1.7), somnolence ↑ (RR 2.1).
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34546363/
Treating insomnia symptoms with medicinal cannabis (RCT), 2021
Details: Double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover. n=24. Nightly ZTL-101 extract (THC, CBD, CBN).
Results: ↓ Insomnia Severity Index (−5 points), ↑ total sleep time (~30 min), ↓ sleep onset latency.
Stats: 60% achieved clinically meaningful improvement; no serious adverse events.
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34115851/
U.S. POINTER (2025, RCT, ~2,000): Multidomain lifestyle coaching (exercise, diet, cognitive/social engagement, risk factor control) improved cognition over 2 years vs self-guided care.
🔗 https://www.alz.org/us-pointer/overview.asp
FINGER (2015, RCT, n=1,260): 2-year multidomain program improved global cognition (exec function +83%, processing speed +150%) in at-risk older adults.
🔗 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4266342/
ACTIVE Trial (10-yr follow-up, n≈2,800): Speed-of-processing training reduced dementia incidence by ~29%; booster sessions amplified effects.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27521440/
MIND Diet Trial (2023, RCT, n=604): Calorie-matched MIND vs control diets showed no significant difference in cognition after 3 years.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37227483/
Lancet Commission (2024): Up to 45% of dementia cases preventable by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors (hearing, HTN, diabetes, inactivity, smoking, pollution, etc.).
🔗 https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/dementia2024
SPRINT-MIND (JAMA 2019): Intensive BP lowering (<120 mmHg) reduced MCI and dementia risk vs standard (<140).
🔗 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2723257
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (2024, observational): Diabetes patients on GLP-1RAs had 20–40% lower dementia incidence vs other agents.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268668/
Statins/Metformin (ongoing/preventive): Mixed evidence; PREVENTABLE trial testing atorvastatin in 20,000 older adults for dementia outcomes.
🔗 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04262206
ACHIEVE (Lancet 2023, RCT, n=977): Hearing-aid–based care slowed cognitive decline over 3 years in at-risk older adults.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37478882/
Cataract Surgery (2021, cohort >3,000): Associated with ~30% reduced dementia risk; mechanism via sensory restoration.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34818106/
EXERT (2022, Phase 3 RCT, MCI, n=300): Aerobic and stretching/toning both preserved cognition over 18 months in MCI.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35969440/
OSA/CPAP (systematic reviews, 2023): CPAP improved cognition and slowed decline in AD/MCI with sleep apnea; evidence moderate.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37290027/
Influenza Vaccination (2020, cohort n=9,000+): Annual flu shots linked to reduced AD risk over ~4 years.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32690036/
Shingles Vaccine (2022, cohort n=200,000+): Recombinant zoster vaccination reduced dementia incidence over ~6 years.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35880767/
Donanemab (TRAILBLAZER-ALZ 2, 2023, Phase 3): Slowed clinical decline in early AD; effect strongest in low–medium tau.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37482176/
Lecanemab (CLARITY-AD, 2023): Slowed progression in early AD; requires APOE4 screening due to ARIA risks.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36449464/
A4 Trial (Solanezumab, 2023): No slowing of decline in amyloid-positive but cognitively normal adults (important null).
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37085346/
LX1001 (Lexeo, Phase 1/2, 2023): AAV-mediated APOE2 delivery to APOE4/4 AD patients → increased CSF ApoE2, reduced tau biomarkers.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699171/
ApoE4 antisense (preclinical, 2021): Knockdown of ApoE4 reduced tauopathy and neurodegeneration in mice.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33622978/
ApoE “structure correctors” (early discovery): Small molecules restoring ApoE4 to ApoE3-like structure reduced toxicity in human neurons.
🔗 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34808358/
RESEARCH STUDIES
This category includes systematic reviews and meta-analyses demonstrating moderate to high certainty evidence for small improvements in pain relief with medical cannabis or cannabinoids.
A 2021 Cochrane review found moderate to high certainty evidence that non-inhaled medical cannabis or cannabinoids provide a small to very small improvement in pain relief for chronic non-cancer pain. URL: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD012182.pub2/full
A 2018 systematic review suggested cannabis-based medicines might be effective for chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, based on limited evidence. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29419624/
A 2024 meta-analysis indicated medical cannabis may be as effective as opioids for chronic non-cancer pain with fewer discontinuations. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10807623/
A 2022 systematic review of long-term studies showed cannabis-based medicines improve pain and quality of life in chronic non-cancer pain with good tolerability. URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.801270/full
A 2020 meta-analysis reported cannabinoids significantly reduce pain in chronic non-cancer pain, with the greatest effect between 2-8 weeks of treatment. URL: https://www.bmj.com/content/370/bmj.m2980
Focusing on high-quality evidence from meta-analyses showing efficacy in neuropathic conditions, often with moderate certainty.
A 2015 JAMA meta-analysis provided moderate-quality evidence supporting cannabinoids for chronic pain, including neuropathic types. URL: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2338251
A 2017 systematic review concluded cannabis-based medicines are effective for chronic pain management, primarily neuropathic pain. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28934780/
A 2021 meta-analysis of antinociceptive effects found cannabinoids effective in reducing neuropathic pain in preclinical and clinical models. URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.614198/full
A 2022 pharmacology-based meta-analysis showed medical cannabinoids have efficacy in neuropathic pain with moderate retention rates. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8856648/
These studies highlight low to moderate evidence for cannabinoids in palliative settings, with limited pain reduction.
A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis found low-risk bias studies showing cannabinoids added to opioids do not reduce cancer pain in adults. URL: https://www.bmj.com/content/371/bmj.m4087
A 2018 meta-analysis in palliative medicine indicated cannabinoids provide some efficacy for cancer-related pain but with tolerability issues. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29756599/
A 2023 review noted low-certainty evidence that CBD oil does not reduce pain intensity in palliative care for cancer patients. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10124590/
A 2022 meta-analysis suggested limited benefit from cannabinoids in cancer pelvic pain, with potential improvement over long-term use. URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpain.2022.978360/full
Evidence here centers on terpenes' analgesic properties, often in cannabis contexts, with reviews supporting anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
A 2018 review discussed terpenes in cannabis contributing to pain relief in migraines, headaches, and chronic syndromes via anti-inflammatory mechanisms. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6130519/
A 2024 study on the entourage effect explored terpenes' synergistic role in cannabis for therapeutic pain management. URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1354416/full
A 2020 systematic review highlighted formulated terpenes with THC/CBD for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in pain conditions. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7409346/
A 2021 review emphasized terpenes like beta-caryophyllene for pain relief through CB2 receptor activation. URL: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/13/4102
This includes non-cannabis plant-derived compounds, with meta-analyses showing efficacy in conditions like osteoarthritis and back pain.
A 2019 Cochrane review found herbal products like cayenne (capsaicin) effective for neuropathic pain with moderate evidence. URL: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD010751.pub3/full
A 2020 meta-analysis indicated Boswellia serrata as a potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic for osteoarthritis pain. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7368679/
A 2016 Cochrane review showed devil's claw, white willow bark, and cayenne reduce low back pain more than placebo. URL: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004504.pub4/full
A 2020 review confirmed high-dose topical capsaicin effective for peripheral neuropathic pain management. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7392706/
A 2015 study demonstrated lavender essential oil’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive effects for pain. URL: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2015/749354/
High-certainty evidence on reducing opioid use and assessing harms in pain patients.
A 2022 meta-analysis found cannabinoids have an opioid-sparing effect in preclinical and clinical pain studies. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8971603/
A 2022 review reported very low certainty evidence that adverse events are common with medical cannabis in chronic pain. URL: https://www.cmajopen.ca/content/10/3/E674
A 2023 umbrella review showed cannabinoids improve pain in multiple sclerosis but increase risks like dizziness. URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2023.1184535/full
A 2022 meta-analysis indicated CBD is safe and effective for chronic pain with low adverse effects. URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9344230/
Cognitive Systems – Processes like attention, perception, memory, language, cognitive control.
Arousal/Regulatory Systems – Sleep, circadian rhythms, arousal, energy balance, stress regulation.
Positive Valence Systems – Responses to positive motivational situations (e.g., reward, anticipation, habit).
Negative Valence Systems – Responses to aversive or stressful situations (e.g., fear, anxiety, loss).
Social Processes – Perception of self and others, social communication, attachment, and affiliation.
Week 1 — Foundations: ECS & Chronic Pain
1) Living Systematic Review (AHRQ → Annals of Internal Medicine, 2025 update)
The AHRQ living review (through Sept-2024) pooled 26 RCTs + 12 observational studies of mostly non-inhaled cannabinoids. Findings: small improvements in pain and function short-term; dizziness and sedation more common—especially with higher-THC products. Balanced THC:CBD sprays show the most consistent (but still small) gains; long-term safety and opioid-sparing remain under-studied. Annals of Internal Medicine+1
URL: https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/ANNALS-24-03319
2) Network Meta-analysis: Cannabis vs Opioids (BMJ Open, 2024)
Across 90 RCTs (n=22,028), medical cannabis ≈ opioids for pain, function, and sleep at 4–24 weeks, with fewer discontinuations due to AEs than opioids (OR ~0.55). Neither class improved role/social/emotional functioning over placebo. Takeaway: similar average efficacy; tolerability may favor cannabis. PubMed
URL: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/1/e068182.full.pdf
3) Systematic Review + Trial Sequential Analysis (PLoS ONE, 2023)
Across 65 placebo-controlled RCTs (n=7,017), cannabinoids reduced chronic pain (MD −0.43/10) and improved sleep (MD −0.42/10), but both effects were below minimal important differences. Non-serious AEs↑ (RR ~1.20); no signal for serious AEs. Clinical meaning: statistically positive, modest clinical size. PMCPLOS
URL: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0267420
4)📚 AHRQ / ODPHP Living Evidence Summary (2023–2024)
🔄 Quarterly-updated synthesis using THC:CBD ratio groupings:
✨ Comparable THC:CBD oral spray → probably small improvements in pain & function (low SOE).
✨ High-THC products → slight pain reduction but ↑ sedation, dizziness, and withdrawals.
⚠️ Evidence remains short-term & neuropathic-heavy.
⚠️ Long-term harms (e.g., CUD, psychosis) = insufficient evidence.
📑 CCSA “Clearing the Smoke” Medical Use Update (2024)
Umbrella review synthesizing 36+ clinical trials:
✨ In neuropathic-dominant RCTs, ≥30% pain reduction achieved more often with cannabinoids vs placebo (~39% vs ~30%).
✨ Short trial durations, frequent dizziness/sedation.
⚖️ Practical stance: not first-line, but a reasonable adjunct when standard therapy fails.
🧪 Prospective Cohort — Low-dose Oils (PAIN Reports, 2024)
6-month structured cohort (n=218 at baseline) on titrated THC/CBD oils:
📉 Pain decreased 7.9 → 6.6/10 (~14%).
🙌 24% “responders” (≥30% pain drop).
💤 Sleep, QoL, mood improved.
⚠️ AEs in ~45% — mostly mild, clustered early.
➡️ Interpretation: modest, durable relief with acceptable safety in real-world dosing.
📖 Full study: https://journals.lww.com/painrpts/fulltext/2024/04000/cannabis_oil_extracts_for_chronic_pain__what_else.12.aspx
📝 Contemporary Clinical Review (Biomedicines, 2025)
Synthesis of 2020–2025 RCTs + observational data across pain syndromes:
✨ Moderate efficacy signals in neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, cancer-related pain, spasticity.
✨ Strongest when dosing & route individualized (balanced THC:CBD; oromucosal/topical for tolerability).
⚠️ Small samples, short follow-up.
📢 Emphasizes need for larger, longer-term trials.
📖 Journal link: (Biomedicines, 2025)
Tagging for discussion & perspectives:
@Abigail @Alexandra @Angela @Claucous @Roz @Ignacio @Jacody @Jacquie @Janice @Jodeci @Joseph @Joseph @Jordan @Mary @Mary @Rasean @RAS @Rasean @Renee @Saige @Scheril @Shoshanna @Travis @Vincent @Zach
Week 2 — Neuropathic Pain (ordered by prevalence for your book: LBP → DPN → PHN/others → CIPN/SCI, with LBP first)
1) Low Back Pain | Inhaled THC-rich vs CBD-rich Extract (Observational, 2022)
Open-label sequential design in chronic LBP: CBD-rich sublingual extract (10 mo) followed by THC-rich inhaled flower (12 mo) after washouts. Pain reduction significant during inhaled-THC phase (extract phase not significant); sleep improved with CBD-rich phase. Safety acceptable. Signals formulation/route matters.
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9622393/
2) Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy | Phase III RCT — Transdermal THC:CBD:CBN (2024)
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled; n=100; 12 weeks. Primary NPSI-T pain scores improved vs placebo with favorable safety (mild AEs; high adherence). Provides robust human evidence for a non-oral, non-inhaled route in painful DPN. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11666268/
3) Nabiximols for Neuropathic Pain | Systematic Review & Meta-analysis (2021)
Across ~16 RCTs (~1,700 pts) in central/peripheral neuropathic pain, nabiximols (1:1 THC:CBD) showed small, statistically significant pain reductions over placebo. Dizziness/fatigue were common AEs; serious AEs rare. Clinically: modest but reproducible effect size. PMC
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33561282/
4) Cannabinoids in Neuropathic Pain | Systematic Review (2024)
Synthesis of 17 RCTs + 9 cohorts: consistent, modest pain improvements across neuropathic subtypes (including radiculopathy/PHN). Notes heterogeneity in products and dosing, and short-term horizons, but effect directions are reproducible. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11498906/
5) Topical CBD for Peripheral Neuropathy (Randomized Controlled Trial, 2020)
Double-blind RCT (n=29) of CBD topical to lower-extremity PN: sharp and cold pain improved vs placebo without systemic AEs. Practical: local therapy with low risk, useful for focal allodynia/dysesthesia. PMC
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31793418/
6) Low Back Pain | Edible Cannabis, Dose–Response (Naturalistic, 2024)
249 participants tracked over 2 weeks with ad-libitum edible cannabis; higher THC dose correlated with greater short-term pain relief during supervised acute sessions. Suggests THC-linked analgesia in LBP while highlighting need for dose-finding RCTs. Frontiers
URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1464005/full
7) Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy | Topical Cannabinoids (Case Series, 2021)
n=18 with CIPN reported reductions in tingling and burning using topical cannabinoid preparations; no systemic AEs observed. Signal-generating only, but supports topicals in sensitive oncology populations. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8646190/
Week 3 — Musculoskeletal & Inflammatory Pain
Topical CBD for Thumb Basal-Joint OA (Randomized, crossover RCT, 2022)
n=18; 2×2-week crossover. Twice-daily 6.2 mg/mL CBD cream significantly improved VAS pain, DASH, and SANE vs shea-butter control; no AEs reported. Therapeutic II evidence for focal OA pain. PubMedJHandsurg
https://www.jhandsurg.org/article/S0363-5023(22)00133-2/fulltext
Osteoarthritis on UK Medical Cannabis Registry (Prospective case series, 2024)
n=77; significant improvements in BPI pain severity/interference, MPQ-2, EQ-5D, and sleep at 1–12 months. AEs: 22% reported events (mostly mild/moderate). Supports RCTs for OA pain. PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38669060
Hypermobility-Associated MSK Pain (ACR Open Rheumatology, 2025)
n=161 HSD/hEDS; improvements in BPI, SF-MPQ-2, pain VAS, EQ-5D, sleep, and GAD-7 through 18 months; 31% reported AEs (headache most common). Real-world MSK signal beyond OA. PubMed
https://acrjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/acr2.70024
Inflammatory Arthritis Cohort (UKMCR; RA/PsA/AxSpA, 2024 preprint PDF)
Registry case series shows decreases in BPI pain and improvements in sleep and HRQoL at 1–12 months after CBMP initiation; observational design limits causality. Realm of Caring Foundation
https://realmofcaring.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/assessment_of_clinical_outcomes_in_patients_with.145.pdf
Fibromyalgia — Systematic Review (2023)
4 RCTs + 5 observational studies (n≈564). Low-quality but positive short-term pain reduction and sleep gains with cannabinoids; heterogeneity/high risk of bias noted. PMCPubMed
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10295750/
Fibromyalgia — Longitudinal Cohort (2023; Arthritis Care & Research)
n=367; early pain reductions after MC initiation tracked with decreased negative affect and improved sleep at 3 months; signals of psychosocial mediation. PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35876631/
Chronic MSK Pain on Low-Dose Oils (PAIN Reports, 2024)
Prospective cohort (n≈218–316 across reports). Individually titrated THC/CBD oils yielded modest, durable pain reduction and better function; AEs common but mostly mild and early. PubMedPMC
https://journals.lww.com/painrpts/fulltext/2024/04000/cannabis_oil_extracts_for_chronic_pain__what_else.12.aspx
Week 4 — Cancer & Complex Pain
Advanced Cancer RCT — 1:1 THC:CBD Oil (Double-blind, 2025)
n=144 randomized. No difference in total symptom burden at day 14; small pain improvement vs placebo with more psychomimetic AEs. Counsel patients on modest analgesia, higher toxicity. PMC
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12289739/
Quebec Cancer Registry (BMJ Support Palliat Care, 2024)
n=358; significant reductions in BPI worst/average pain and ESAS pain to 9–12 months; balanced THC:CBD outperformed THC- or CBD-dominant; opioid/med burden ↓. Mostly non-serious AEs. PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37130724/
ASCO Guideline (JCO, 2024)
Guideline emphasizes symptom relief discussions, product-specific dosing, monitoring, and not using cannabinoids as cancer-directed therapy outside trials. Shared decision-making and safety checks are key. PubMedASCOPubs
https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.23.02596
Narrative Review — Cancer Symptom Management (Cancers, 2024)
Synthesizes pharmacology and clinical data for appetite, pain, nausea/vomiting, insomnia; acknowledges anti-tumor signals are preclinical/insufficient; supports integrated oncology pathways. PMCPubMed
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11352579/
Anticancer Research Update (2024)
Clinical updates suggest balanced THC:CBD may improve pain with better tolerability than THC-only; urges higher-quality RCTs and careful adverse-event monitoring. PubMedIIAR Journals
https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/44/3/895
Nabiximols in Advanced Cancer — Narrative Synthesis (2024)
Controlled evidence remains mixed; summaries note modest analgesia and no clear opioid-sparing across small RCTs; highlights design/power limitations. PMC
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12289739/
Oncology Cohort — Safety & Symptom Burden (Frontiers, 2022)
Prospective real-world cohort: MC generally safe with non-serious AEs and symptom burden reductions over follow-up; underscores gap in long-term controlled trials. PMCFrontiers
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pain-research/articles/10.3389/fpain.2022.861037/full
Week 5 — Integrative Outcomes (Function, Mood, Sleep, Tapering)
Opioid Dose Trajectories (JAMA Netw Open, 2023)
New York State cohort n=8,165 on long-term opioids: >30-day MC exposure linked to larger monthly MME reductions (dose-response); 47–51% MME ↓ by 8 months vs 4–14% in ≤30-day group. PMC
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2800813
HRQoL Case Series (JAMA Netw Open, 2023)
Australian clinics, n=3,148; significant, sustained improvements across all SF-36 domains after MC initiation; AEs common but rarely serious. Chronic non-cancer pain most common indication. PMCPubMed
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2804653
Sleep & Pain in Chronic Pain (UKMCR, 2024)
n=1,139 chronic pain patients stratified by baseline sleep impairment; CBMPs improved sleep and pain over 12 months; AE incidence comparable across strata; exploratory OME data reported. PMC
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11683519/
Insomnia Cohort on CBMPs (PLOS Mental Health, 2025)
UKMCR insomnia cohort shows clinically meaningful sleep quality gains and HRQoL improvement up to 18 months; AEs mostly mild/moderate; emphasizes need for controlled trials. PLOS+1
https://journals.plos.org/mentalhealth/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmen.0000390
CBD 150 mg Nightly — Primary Insomnia RCT (2024)
n=30; two-week parallel RCT. Objective sleep efficiency ↑ and well-being ↑ with CBD vs placebo; most other sleep endpoints neutral; safety acceptable. PMCPubMed
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11063694/
Real-World Pain + QoL (Drug Sci Policy Law, 2023)
Three-month data showed pain severity/interference ↓ and QoL ↑ after MC initiation; balanced products often performed best; sample sizes modest; longer follow-up needed. SAGE JournalsDrug Science
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/20503245231172535
Anxiety/Sleep Overlap (UKMCR GAD Cohort, 2023)
n=302 GAD patients on CBMPs: GAD-7 ↓ ~5 points by 1–3 months; sleep and EQ-5D ↑; AEs mostly mild/moderate. Supports pain’s emotional component in integrative care. PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37314478/
Week 1 — Foundations: ECS & Chronic Pain
Chronic pain affects approximately 20-24% of U.S. adults, with high-impact chronic pain (limiting daily activities) impacting about 8%, based on 2023-2024 data. Standard treatments include nonpharmacological options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exercise, physical therapy, and complementary approaches such as acupuncture or yoga; pharmacological options encompass acetaminophen, NSAIDs, opioids for severe cases, and anticonvulsants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26103030/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28934780/
Living Systematic Review (AHRQ → Annals of Internal Medicine, 2025 update)
The AHRQ living review (through Sept-2024) pooled 26 RCTs + 12 observational studies of mostly non-inhaled cannabinoids. Findings: small improvements in pain and function short-term; dizziness and sedation more common—especially with higher-THC products. Balanced THC:CBD sprays show the most consistent (but still small) gains; long-term safety and opioid-sparing remain under-studied. Annals of Internal Medicine+1
URL: https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/ANNALS-24-03319
Network Meta-analysis: Cannabis vs Opioids (BMJ Open, 2024)
Across 90 RCTs (n=22,028), medical cannabis ≈ opioids for pain, function, and sleep at 4–24 weeks, with fewer discontinuations due to AEs than opioids (OR ~0.55). Neither class improved role/social/emotional functioning over placebo. Takeaway: similar average efficacy; tolerability may favor cannabis. PubMed
URL: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/1/e068182.full.pdf
Systematic Review + Trial Sequential Analysis (PLoS ONE, 2023)
Across 65 placebo-controlled RCTs (n=7,017), cannabinoids reduced chronic pain (MD −0.43/10) and improved sleep (MD −0.42/10), but both effects were below minimal important differences. Non-serious AEs↑ (RR ~1.20); no signal for serious AEs. Clinical meaning: statistically positive, modest clinical size. PMCPLOS
URL: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0267420
AHRQ / ODPHP Living Evidence Summary (2023–2024)
Quarterly-updated synthesis using THC:CBD ratio groupings: comparable THC:CBD oral spray probably yields small improvements in pain and function (low SOE), while high-THC products may slightly reduce pain but increase sedation/dizziness and withdrawals. Evidence remains short-term and neuropathic-heavy; long-term harms (e.g., CUD, psychosis) are insufficient. Health.govEffective Healthcare
URL: https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/tools-action/browse-evidence-based-resources/living-systematic-review-cannabis-and-other-plant-based-treatments-chronic-pain
CCSA “Clearing the Smoke” Medical Use Update (2024)
Policy-grade umbrella review summarizing 36+ clinical trials: in neuropathic-dominant RCTs a greater proportion on cannabinoids achieved ≥30% pain reduction vs placebo (approx. ~39% vs ~30%), with short durations and frequent dizziness/sedation. Practical stance: not first-line, but reasonable adjunct when standard therapy fails. CCSA
URL: https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Clearing-the-Smoke-on-Cannabis-Medical-Use-of-Cannabis-and-Cannabinoids-2024-Update-en.pdf
Prospective Cohort — Low-dose Oils (PAIN Reports, 2024)
Structured 6-month cohort (baseline n=218) on titrated THC/CBD oils: pain fell from 7.9 → 6.6/10 (~14%), with 24% “responders” (≥30% pain drop). Sleep, QoL, and mood measures improved; AEs up to 45%, mostly mild, clustered early. Interpretation: modest, durable symptom relief with acceptable safety in real-world dosing. PMC
URL: https://journals.lww.com/painrpts/fulltext/2024/04000/cannabis_oil_extracts_for_chronic_pain__what_else.12.aspx
Contemporary Clinical Review (Biomedicines, 2025)
Synthesizes 2020–2025 RCTs/observational data across pain syndromes: moderate efficacy signals in neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, cancer-related pain, and spasticity—strongest when dosing/route individualized (e.g., balanced THC:CBD, oromucosal/topical for tolerability). Emphasizes small samples, short follow-up, and need for larger trials. MDPI
URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/13/3/530
Cannabinoids for Medical Use: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (JAMA, 2015)
Reviewed 79 trials on pharmaceutical cannabinoids; moderate-quality evidence for pain reduction in chronic pain conditions; increased risk of short-term adverse events such as dizziness and fatigue; limited long-term data. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26103030/
Efficacy of Cannabis-Based Medicines for Pain Management: A Systematic Review (Front Pharmacol, 2017)
Synthesized 16 RCTs; CBMs showed potential efficacy for chronic pain, especially neuropathic subtypes, with small to moderate effect sizes; common AEs included sedation; calls for more rigorous trials. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28934780/
Cannabinoids in Chronic Non-Cancer Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Curr Pharm Des, 2020)
Analyzed RCTs; moderate evidence supporting short-term pain relief at 2 weeks, with similar effects observed longer-term; increased non-serious AEs; highlights need for better long-term safety data. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32127750/
Week 2 — Neuropathic Pain (ordered by prevalence for your book: LBP → DPN → PHN/others → CIPN/SCI, with LBP first)
Neuropathic pain has a general population prevalence of 7-10%, rising to 20-30% among diabetics, with estimates varying by assessment method. Standard treatments include first-line options like amitriptyline, gabapentin, pregabalin; second-line such as lidocaine patches, capsaicin, tramadol; and adjuncts like physical therapy, relaxation, or acupuncture for persistent cases. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32127750/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31793418/
Low Back Pain | Inhaled THC-rich vs CBD-rich Extract (Observational, 2022)
Open-label sequential design in chronic LBP: CBD-rich sublingual extract (10 mo) followed by THC-rich inhaled flower (12 mo) after washouts. Pain reduction significant during inhaled-THC phase (extract phase not significant); sleep improved with CBD-rich phase. Safety acceptable. Signals formulation/route matters. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9622393/
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy | Phase III RCT — Transdermal THC:CBD:CBN (2024)
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled; n=100; 12 weeks. Primary NPSI-T pain scores improved vs placebo with favorable safety (mild AEs; high adherence). Provides robust human evidence for a non-oral, non-inhaled route in painful DPN. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11666268/
Nabiximols for Neuropathic Pain | Systematic Review & Meta-analysis (2021)
Across ~16 RCTs (~1,700 pts) in central/peripheral neuropathic pain, nabiximols (1:1 THC:CBD) showed small, statistically significant pain reductions over placebo. Dizziness/fatigue were common AEs; serious AEs rare. Clinically: modest but reproducible effect size. PMC
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33561282/
Cannabinoids in Neuropathic Pain | Systematic Review (2024)
Synthesis of 17 RCTs + 9 cohorts: consistent, modest pain improvements across neuropathic subtypes (including radiculopathy/PHN). Notes heterogeneity in products and dosing, and short-term horizons, but effect directions are reproducible. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11498906/
Topical CBD for Peripheral Neuropathy (Randomized Controlled Trial, 2020)
Double-blind RCT (n=29) of CBD topical to lower-extremity PN: sharp and cold pain improved vs placebo without systemic AEs. Practical: local therapy with low risk, useful for focal allodynia/dysesthesia. PMC
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31793418/
Low Back Pain | Edible Cannabis, Dose–Response (Naturalistic, 2024)
249 participants tracked over 2 weeks with ad-libitum edible cannabis; higher THC dose correlated with greater short-term pain relief during supervised acute sessions. Suggests THC-linked analgesia in LBP while highlighting need for dose-finding RCTs. Frontiers
URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1464005/full
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy | Topical Cannabinoids (Case Series, 2021)
n=18 with CIPN reported reductions in tingling and burning using topical cannabinoid preparations; no systemic AEs observed. Signal-generating only, but supports topicals in sensitive oncology populations. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8646190/
A Systematic Review on Cannabinoids for Neuropathic Pain Administered by Routes Other than Oral or Inhalation (Pharmaceuticals, 2022)
Reviewed clinical research; limited studies on alternative routes (e.g., topical, transdermal) show potential for pain relief in neuropathic conditions; emphasizes lack of high-quality data and need for more trials across subtypes like DPN and PHN. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9145866/
Efficacy of cannabis-based medications compared to placebo for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis (J Dent Anesth Pain Med, 2021)
Meta-analysis of RCTs; significant pain intensity reduction with THC/CBD (-6.624 units) and THC alone (-8.681 units); applicable to various neuropathic pains including diabetic and postherpetic; AEs were tolerable. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8637910/
Efficacy of Inhaled Cannabis on Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (J Pain, 2015)
Placebo-controlled RCT (n=16); dose-dependent pain reduction in DPN with inhaled cannabis; low doses effective with minimal psychoactive effects; supports THC for peripheral neuropathic pain. PubMed
URL: https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(15)00601-X/fulltext
Week 3 — Musculoskeletal & Inflammatory Pain
Musculoskeletal pain affects about 1.71 billion people globally, with 20-33% of the world's population experiencing some chronic form; in the U.S., over 50% of adults are impacted. Standard treatments involve non-drug approaches like physical therapy, rehabilitation, CBT, and self-management; pharmacological options include NSAIDs, analgesics; and interventional therapies for severe cases. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11331211, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31793418/
Topical CBD for Thumb Basal-Joint OA (Randomized, crossover RCT, 2022)
n=18; 2×2-week crossover. Twice-daily 6.2 mg/mL CBD cream significantly improved VAS pain, DASH, and SANE vs shea-butter control; no AEs reported. Therapeutic II evidence for focal OA pain. PubMedJHandsurg
URL: https://www.jhandsurg.org/article/S0363-5023(22)00133-2/fulltext
Osteoarthritis on UK Medical Cannabis Registry (Prospective case series, 2024)
n=77; significant improvements in BPI pain severity/interference, MPQ-2, EQ-5D, and sleep at 1–12 months. AEs: 22% reported events (mostly mild/moderate). Supports RCTs for OA pain. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38669060
Hypermobility-Associated MSK Pain (ACR Open Rheumatology, 2025)
n=161 HSD/hEDS; improvements in BPI, SF-MPQ-2, pain VAS, EQ-5D, sleep, and GAD-7 through 18 months; 31% reported AEs (headache most common). Real-world MSK signal beyond OA. PubMed
URL: https://acrjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/acr2.70024
Inflammatory Arthritis Cohort (UKMCR; RA/PsA/AxSpA, 2024 preprint PDF)
Registry case series shows decreases in BPI pain and improvements in sleep and HRQoL at 1–12 months after CBMP initiation; observational design limits causality. Realm of Caring Foundation
URL: https://realmofcaring.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/assessment_of_clinical_outcomes_in_patients_with.145.pdf
Fibromyalgia — Systematic Review (2023)
4 RCTs + 5 observational studies (n≈564). Low-quality but positive short-term pain reduction and sleep gains with cannabinoids; heterogeneity/high risk of bias noted. PMCPubMed
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10295750/
Fibromyalgia — Longitudinal Cohort (2023; Arthritis Care & Research)
n=367; early pain reductions after MC initiation tracked with decreased negative affect and improved sleep at 3 months; signals of psychosocial mediation. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35876631/
Chronic MSK Pain on Low-Dose Oils (PAIN Reports, 2024)
Prospective cohort (n≈218–316 across reports). Individually titrated THC/CBD oils yielded modest, durable pain reduction and better function; AEs common but mostly mild and early. PubMedPMC
URL: https://journals.lww.com/painrpts/fulltext/2024/04000/cannabis_oil_extracts_for_chronic_pain__what_else.12.aspx
Cannabis therapy in rheumatological diseases: A systematic review (Ann Med Surg, 2024)
Synthesized studies on cannabis in OA, RA, and other rheumatic pains; improvements in pain and function, especially in OA; allows reduction in other pain meds; mild AEs. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11331211
Cannabinoids for fibromyalgia pain: a critical review of recent studies (2010–2019) (J Cannabis Res, 2020)
Critical review of RCTs; mixed results but some positive for short-term pain and sleep in fibromyalgia; limited by small samples and bias; suggests potential as adjunct. PubMed
URL: https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-020-00024-2
Cannabis against chronic musculoskeletal pain: a scoping review on users and their perceptions (J Cannabis Res, 2021)
Scoping review of 49 studies; users reported reduced MSK pain (including OA and fibromyalgia) with minor AEs; highlights real-world perceptions of efficacy. PubMed
URL: https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00096-8
Week 4 — Cancer & Complex Pain
Cancer pain prevalence is around 44.5% overall among patients, with 30.6% experiencing moderate to severe levels; about one-third during treatment and two-thirds in advanced stages. Standard treatments include over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen or NSAIDs for mild pain, opioids (e.g., morphine) for moderate-severe, and adjuncts such as neurosurgery, radiation, or non-opioid options like anticonvulsants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28923526/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37648266/
Advanced Cancer RCT — 1:1 THC:CBD Oil (Double-blind, 2025)
n=144 randomized. No difference in total symptom burden at day 14; small pain improvement vs placebo with more psychomimetic AEs. Counsel patients on modest analgesia, higher toxicity. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12289739/
Quebec Cancer Registry (BMJ Support Palliat Care, 2024)
n=358; significant reductions in BPI worst/average pain and ESAS pain to 9–12 months; balanced THC:CBD outperformed THC- or CBD-dominant; opioid/med burden ↓. Mostly non-serious AEs. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37130724/
ASCO Guideline (JCO, 2024)
Guideline emphasizes symptom relief discussions, product-specific dosing, monitoring, and not using cannabinoids as cancer-directed therapy outside trials. Shared decision-making and safety checks are key. PubMedASCOPubs
URL: https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.23.02596
Narrative Review — Cancer Symptom Management (Cancers, 2024)
Synthesizes pharmacology and clinical data for appetite, pain, nausea/vomiting, insomnia; acknowledges anti-tumor signals are preclinical/insufficient; supports integrated oncology pathways. PMCPubMed
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11352579/
Anticancer Research Update (2024)
Clinical updates suggest balanced THC:CBD may improve pain with better tolerability than THC-only; urges higher-quality RCTs and careful adverse-event monitoring. PubMedIIAR Journals
URL: https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/44/3/895
Nabiximols in Advanced Cancer — Narrative Synthesis (2024)
Controlled evidence remains mixed; summaries note modest analgesia and no clear opioid-sparing across small RCTs; highlights design/power limitations. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12289739/
Oncology Cohort — Safety & Symptom Burden (Frontiers, 2022)
Prospective real-world cohort: MC generally safe with non-serious AEs and symptom burden reductions over follow-up; underscores gap in long-term controlled trials. PMCFrontiers
URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pain-research/articles/10.3389/fpain.2022.861037/full
Cannabis-based medicines and medical cannabis for adults with cancer pain (Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2023)
Systematic review; low-certainty evidence that CBD does not add to palliative care for pain reduction; no clear benefit over placebo; limited by study quality. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37283486/
Results of a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study of Nabiximols Oromucosal Spray as an Adjunctive Therapy in Advanced Cancer Patients with Chronic Uncontrolled Pain (J Pain Symptom Manage, 2017)
RCT (n=397); nabiximols as adjunct showed no significant pain improvement over placebo in advanced cancer; higher AEs; questions broad efficacy. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28923526/
Balancing risks and benefits of cannabis use: umbrella review of meta-analyses (BMJ, 2023)
Umbrella review; cannabis-based medicines effective in palliative care and chronic pain including cancer-related; weighs benefits against harms like psychiatric risks. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37648266/
Week 5 — Integrative Outcomes (Function, Mood, Sleep, Tapering)
Sleep disorders affect 44-72% of chronic pain patients, with insomnia most common; mood disorders like anxiety contribute to worsening pain and function. Standard integrative treatments include pharmacotherapy (e.g., sleep aids), non-pharmacological strategies like relaxation, mindfulness, CBT, and promoting better sleep hygiene to enhance mood and function. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37314478/, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11063694/
Opioid Dose Trajectories (JAMA Netw Open, 2023)
New York State cohort n=8,165 on long-term opioids: >30-day MC exposure linked to larger monthly MME reductions (dose-response); 47–51% MME ↓ by 8 months vs 4–14% in ≤30-day group. PMC
URL: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2800813
HRQoL Case Series (JAMA Netw Open, 2023)
Australian clinics, n=3,148; significant, sustained improvements across all SF-36 domains after MC initiation; AEs common but rarely serious. Chronic non-cancer pain most common indication. PMCPubMed
URL: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2804653
Sleep & Pain in Chronic Pain (UKMCR, 2024)
n=1,139 chronic pain patients stratified by baseline sleep impairment; CBMPs improved sleep and pain over 12 months; AE incidence comparable across strata; exploratory OME data reported. PMC
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11683519/
Insomnia Cohort on CBMPs (PLOS Mental Health, 2025)
UKMCR insomnia cohort shows clinically meaningful sleep quality gains and HRQoL improvement up to 18 months; AEs mostly mild/moderate; emphasizes need for controlled trials. PLOS+1
URL: https://journals.plos.org/mentalhealth/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmen.0000390
CBD 150 mg Nightly — Primary Insomnia RCT (2024)
n=30; two-week parallel RCT. Objective sleep efficiency ↑ and well-being ↑ with CBD vs placebo; most other sleep endpoints neutral; safety acceptable. PMCPubMed
URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11063694/
Real-World Pain + QoL (Drug Sci Policy Law, 2023)
Three-month data showed pain severity/interference ↓ and QoL ↑ after MC initiation; balanced products often performed best; sample sizes modest; longer follow-up needed. SAGE JournalsDrug Science
URL: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/20503245231172535
Anxiety/Sleep Overlap (UKMCR GAD Cohort, 2023)
n=302 GAD patients on CBMPs: GAD-7 ↓ ~5 points by 1–3 months; sleep and EQ-5D ↑; AEs mostly mild/moderate. Supports pain’s emotional component in integrative care. PubMed
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37314478/
The holistic effects of medical cannabis compared to opioids on pain experience in Finnish patients with chronic pain (J Cannabis Res, 2023)
Survey-based cohort; MC perceived as equally effective as opioids for pain but with broader benefits to function, mood, and sleep; fewer side effects reported. PubMed
URL: https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-023-00207-7
Does Integrative Medicine Reduce Prescribed Opioid Use for Chronic Pain? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Pain Med, 2019)
Meta-analysis including cannabinoids; significant opioid reduction with integrative approaches like MC; improvements in QoL and function; cannabinoids among effective modalities. PubMed
URL: https://academic.oup.com/painmedicine/article/21/4/836/5637803?login=false
Associations between medical cannabis and prescription opioid use in chronic pain patients: A preliminary cohort study (PLoS One, 2017)
Preliminary cohort (n=151); MC associated with 64% opioid reduction; improvements in pain, QoL, mood, sleep, and function; few side effects. PMC
URL: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0187795
Limonene
Miller et al. 2013 (tissue distribution & cyclin D1 reduction): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3692564/
Phase I trial registry (2 g/day): https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01046929
Scoping Review (safe but limited data): https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-021-08639-1
Iodine
Moreno-Vega et al. 2019 (I₂ supplementation effects): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6682905/
Clinical trial registry: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03688958
A pilot clinical study administered 2 g/day of limonene for 2–6 weeks to women with early-stage operable breast cancer. Limonene concentrated in breast tissue (mean ≈ 41.3 µg/g), and notably reduced tumor cyclin D1 expression, possibly inducing cell-cycle arrest and limiting tumor proliferation. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center+15PMC+15ResearchGate+15
A scoping review found only a few human trials (phases I and II), generally showing that d‑limonene is safe and tolerable—but clinical efficacy data remain limited. BioMed Central+2University of Arizona+2
Preclinical animal studies are more promising: in rats, dietary limonene at various doses (up to 10 %) led to significant reductions in mammary tumor incidence and volume, with complete regression in some cases. BioMed Central+9BioMed Central+9ResearchGate+9
However, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, while lab findings (cellular and animal models) are encouraging, human evidence is still preliminary and does not support limonene as a proven cancer treatment. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Cellular and animal data indicate that iodine, particularly molecular iodine (I₂), may reverse dysplasia, reduce ductal hyperplasia, and exert antiproliferative and apoptotic effects in mammary tissues. PMC+15Wikipedia+15PMC+15
Epidemiologic studies suggest higher dietary iodine intake may be linked to a lower risk of breast cancer—for instance, Japanese populations consuming iodine-rich seaweed have historically shown lower incidence. BioMed Central
In one in vitro breast cancer cell study, iodine stimulated estrogen receptor activity—indicating that excess iodine might actually stimulate tumor pathways in certain hormonal cancers. Oncotarget
A clinical trial (NCT03688958) on iodine supplementation in breast cancer patients is listed, but results of any impact on tumor size or outcome are not yet published. ClinicalTrials.gov
Limonene
Preclinical tumor regression in animals; human tissue-level effects on cyclin D1
Promising but not yet conclusive
Iodine
Animal and epidemiologic suggest protective/antiproliferative effects; mixed cell results
Hypothesized, but efficacy unclear
Limonene shows biochemical potential and tissue activity in early pilot studies but lacks definitive human efficacy trials showing tumor shrinkage.
Iodine may offer protective effects in certain contexts, but evidence is mostly indirect or preclinical; potential hormonal interactions need careful evaluation.
Neither agent has robust clinical proof to reliably reduce the size of breast lesions or tumors, though both are areas of active research.
Miller et al., 2013 – “Human breast tissue disposition and bioactivity of limonene”: A Phase II presurgical trial showing that 2 g/day oral d-limonene for 2–6 weeks concentrated in breast tissue (~41.3 µg/g) and reduced tumor cyclin D1 expression by ~22%.
Full text: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3692564/ CDEK+15PMC+15Zuckerman College of Public Health+15
Limonene clinical trial registration (University of Arizona): Phase I completed study evaluating distribution and biological effects of 2 g/day d-limonene in women with early-stage breast cancer.
Trial details: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01046929 CDEK+1
Scoping Review (Chebet et al., 2021): Summarizes human trials of d-limonene and derivatives, confirming limited but safe use and suggesting need for further well-powered studies.
Full text: https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-021-08639-1 ClinicalTrials.gov+14University of Arizona+14DNB+14
Pilot randomized study (Moreno‑Vega et al., 2019): Molecular iodine (I₂, 5 mg/day) supplementation pre- and post-surgery in stage II/III breast cancer. Reported improved response rates, pathologic complete response, disease-free survival, and immune-tumor infiltration.
Full text: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6682905/ ClinicalTrials.gov+6PMC+6CenterWatch+6
Clinical trial registration NCT03688958: Phase II randomized trial looking at dietary molecular iodine supplementation in early and advanced breast cancer, assessing tumor size, thyroid status, side effects, and molecular mechanisms.
Details: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03688958 BioMed Central+8ClinicalTrials.gov+8CDEK+8
Limonene
Miller et al. 2013 (tissue distribution & cyclin D1 reduction): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3692564/
Phase I trial registry (2 g/day): https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01046929
Scoping Review (safe but limited data): https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-021-08639-1
Iodine
Moreno-Vega et al. 2019 (I₂ supplementation effects): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6682905/
Clinical trial registry: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03688958