Fibromyalgia was thought to be a mental disorder in the early 1800’s, it is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and extreme sensitivity to pressure. Although the root cause of this condition is unknown, what is known is that disturbances in sensory pathways of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves caused patients to suffer from abnormal and intensified pain sensations.

The first scientific research studying fibromyalgia was done in 1981, but the first medication designed to manage the incapacitating symptoms was not approved by the FDA until 2007. While usually less than 40 percent of those suffering from fibromyalgia experience symptom relief from pharmaceutical medications, medical cannabis is often a successful therapy option to an otherwise resilient condition. Fibromyalgia symptoms, including pain, fatigue, sleep deprivation, and mood instability or depression, can be efficiently treated with the use of medical cannabis because the organic chemical compounds that make up the plant, called cannabinoids, mimic the body’s own naturally produced endocannabinoids.

The cannabinoids in cannabis bind to the same endocannabinoid receptors that are responsible for regulating many body systems including pain, appetite, mood, and memory. Even though the increase in the number of states legalizing the use of medical cannabis may seem new to some, it is actually history repeating itself. Medical cannabis tinctures were available for over-the-counter purchase in drugstores throughout the United States until the 1930s. Phillip Leveque, the Oregon-based doctor known for being a pioneer of medical marijuana activism, was alive when cannabis tinctures could be found on store shelves, and he was also one of the first doctors to recommend medical cannabis once it was legalized in 1998. Leveque reported that he was in care of roughly 100 patients suffering from fibromyalgia, at any given time, and they all found medical cannabis to be a highly effective treatment. Many patient statements support what experts and researchers have revealed about the symptom relief that results from the use of medical cannabis.

Multiple cannabinoids are known for easing symptoms of fibromyalgia. For example, THC can significantly reduce or even eliminate pain and nausea while helping to improve mood, and CBN is a powerful sleep aid. While single cannabinoid therapy, like the use of just THC or just CBN, will be effective, the efficacy of medical cannabis increases dramatically when multiple cannabinoids are able to work together in a process known as the entourage effect. An example of this is revealed in the results of a recent online survey of fibromyalgia patients, conducted by The National Pain Foundation. Sixty-two percent of participants found medical cannabis to be “very effective” in the treatment of multiple symptoms.

A study conducted in Spain and published in 2011 revealed that medical cannabis can provide fibromyalgia sufferers with both symptom relief and better quality of life. After using medical cannabis, participants reported a substantial decrease in pain and stiffness as well as increase in relaxation, and a rise in sleeping abilities. Patients also noted feeling an improved sense of well-being after the introducing the use of medical cannabis therapies.

Always consult your primary care physician before starting any new treatments.

Our team of specialists are always available to provide you with education and assist you with any questions regarding CBD, CBN, or other cannabinoids you may be curious about.

Treatments include physical therapy, diet changes and prescribed medications. Medications prescribed for Fibromyalgia include Acetaminophen, antidepressants, Capsaicin, Cyclobenzaprine, Duloxetine, Gabapentin, Ibuprofen, Pramipexole, Pregabalin and Tramadol. Each medication contains negative side effects that include nausea, headache, abdominal pain, rash, sexual problems, insomnia, blurred vision, dizziness, anxiety, dry mouth, constipation, heartburn, memory loss, tremors and viral infections.

CBD can effectively reduce pain and improve sleep for people with Fibromyalgia. Research suggests that CBD may change the way people process pain, with beneficial effects. CBD may interrupt the nerve pathways that send signals of pain between the brain and body.

There is also an anti-inflammatory action of CBD that would reduce heat or swelling around injury or disease. Which also reduces pain without the negative side effects of prescribed medications. Our AHS 1500 mg tincture can be taken sublingually and is perfect for alleviating symptoms for those who suffer with Fibromyalgia.

We also have our AHS 2500 mg cream that can be applied topically to reduce pain and swelling caused by Fibromyalgia. Always consult your primary care physician before starting a new treatment.

Our team of specialists are always available to provide you with education and assist you with any questions regarding CBD.