Recent research highlights the potential advantages of cannabinoids in the development and management of migraine, yet studies focusing on the use patterns and effectiveness of such treatments in clinical settings remain scarce. A recent survey among migraine patients has shown that a significant number of them resort to cannabis products for relief. These patients have noted improvements in the severity, frequency, and related symptoms of migraine upon using cannabis. This underscores the necessity for further investigation to solidify these anecdotal benefits for both the prevention and treatment of migraine.
The survey, spearheaded by Allison Verhaak, PhD, and her team, gathered data from migraine patients at a specialized headache center. The online survey aimed to understand cannabis usage and its perceived advantages in managing migraine symptoms, characteristics, and risk factors. Out of 1373 participants, 55.7% reported using cannabis-based products in the past three years, with 32.5% still using them. The primary reasons for usage were to alleviate headache symptoms (65.8%) and improve sleep (50.8%).
In a discussion with NeurologyLive®, Verhaak elaborated on the findings from the survey, including the reported benefits for headache management and the challenges patients face regarding the stigma and selection of cannabis products for migraine relief.
Key Clinical Insights
- Cannabis-based treatments could play a role in diminishing the frequency and severity of headaches, along with nausea, particularly in those experiencing fewer migraine days each month.
- A significant obstacle to the adoption of cannabis for migraine treatment is the lack of clear guidelines on product selection and dosing.
- There is a pressing need for more targeted research to determine the most effective cannabis product compositions and dosages for migraine treatment, and to understand how stigma affects patient experiences.
Investigative Motivations
Allison Verhaak, PhD: Our clinical observations indicate a widespread use of cannabis-based products among patients for headache and other conditions. Yet, research specific to cannabis use in our patient demographic is notably insufficient, with previous studies largely concentrating on broader pain or general headache populations.
Surprising Patterns and Findings
The survey revealed that a majority of participants have used cannabis-based products recently, with a notable portion still actively using them. Interestingly, patients with less frequent migraine episodes reported more significant benefits regarding headache frequency and sleep quality compared to those with more frequent episodes. The lack of cannabis use among some patients was primarily due to uncertainties about product selection and dosage, reflecting the need for more detailed guidance and research in this area.
Notable Improvements and Risk Factor Management
The survey participants reported benefits of cannabis use in reducing the frequency, duration, and intensity of headaches, as well as in managing migraine-associated symptoms like nausea. Improvements in sleep, anxiety, and depression were also highlighted, with many using cannabis for multiple purposes.
Differences Between Cannabis Product Types
Although the survey did not specifically categorize the benefits by product type, it raises an important question for future research to address, given the variety of cannabis products available and their different uses among participants.
Future Research Directions
Verhaak’s team aims to further explore cannabis use among migraine patients through clinical trials to identify effective formulations and dosages. They are also interested in understanding the impact of stigma on patient health and treatment outcomes.
Note: The conversation has been edited for clarity.
REFERENCES
Rhyne DN, Anderson SL, Gedde M, Borgelt LM. Effects of Medical Marijuana on Migraine Headache Frequency in an Adult Population. Pharmacotherapy. 2016;36(5):505-510. doi:10.1002/phar.1673
Starkey B, Pearlson GD, Bond D, et al. Characterizing Cannabis Use and Perceived Benefit in a Tertiary Headache Center Patient Sample. Neurol Clin Pract. 2024;14(2):e200285. doi:10.1212/CPJ.0000000000200285
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