Attention may have been hard to come by as far as epilepsy awareness goes, but Ireland says the work of the EAA has only scratched the surface. Epilepsy was one of the first conditions the government looked at when considering cannabis as a medicine.
“We recognise that people with chronic pain and debilitating illnesses are looking to alleviate their symptoms,” a statement said.
“CBD vape oils may contain synthetic cannabinoids., concentrated tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and/or other hazardous compounds in addition to, or in place of, CBD oil.”
The theory comes as figures show 12 people a day are admitted on Merseyside – with an admission rates standing at three times the national average in Liverpool alone.
The illegal substance, which some experts believe to be linked to schizophrenia diagnoses, is also known as skunk.
CBD is becoming a popular medical option for people looking to use marijuana as a means to decrease feelings of anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems, as well as a pain-reliever for more serious medical ailments.
Many cultures throughout history have used cannabis to treat a variety of painful ailments. Neuropathic pain is a complicated condition that is challenging to treat with our current medications. Recent scientific discovery has elucidated the intricate role of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain. As societal perceptions change, and legislation on medical cannabis relaxes, there is growing interest in the use of medical cannabis for neuropathic pain. The results suggest medical cannabis may be as tolerable and effective as current neuropathic agents; however, more studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of medical cannabis use. Furthermore, continued research to optimize dosing, cannabinoid ratios, and alternate routes of administration may help to refine the therapeutic role of medical cannabis for neuropathic pain.
The CannaNannaS, Deb Lynch and Gail Hester (MCUA); Belinda Dooner from Women in Hemp and Karen Burge from the Ubuntu Wellness Centre, are long-term campaigners who say patients are not getting the access to legal cannabis products they were promised.
The state has approved three dispensaries to provide cannabis oil to seizure patients. But with only 17 doctors able to prescribe it, the oils still can be tough to secure.
CBD oil, though not illegal in Ireland, is not authorised as a medicinal product and so it was not considered as a treatment option.
Research suggests CBD may reduce chronic inflammation and pain, and users have also reported a reduction in anxiety, mood symptoms and insomnia.
Studies have also suggested benefits in the treatment of Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer and epilepsy, with research ongoing.