Perspectives on cannabis as a substitute for opioid analgesics
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with endometriosis often suffer from diffuse and poorly localized severe pain. The current pain management strategies include medical and hormonal therapy, as well as surgery. Medical management of pain is often insufficient and is associated with high rate of recurrence. Better pain management is therefore of urgent need. Methods: Among the various candidates, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has recently emerged as a relevant pharmacological target for the management of endometriosis-related pain. A computerized literature search was performed to identify relevant studies combining the keywords “endometriosis,” “endocannabinoid,” “cannabinoid receptor,” “THC,” and “pain mechanisms.” Conclusions: This review describes the multiple and complex pain mechanisms associated with endometriosis. Current data and theories concerning the link between the ECS and pain management for endometriosis patients are presented. Finally, we will discuss which aspects of endometriosis-associated pain can be targeted by modulation of the ECS.
Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
PMID: 28861506 PMCID: PMC5436335 DOI: 10.1089/can.2016.0035
Bouaziz J1,2, Bar On A1,2, Seidman DS1,2, Soriano D1,2.