There is growing evidence to support medical cannabis as a substitute for prescription opioids to treat chronic pain. The use of cannabinoids instead of opioids may results in a reduction in opioid use and opioid-induced adverse effect. Also, cannabinoids may prevent the development of opioid tolerance and withdrawal. 

Rutgers University

Possible Clinical Indications of Cannabinoids (Cannabis) 

Graczyk M, Łukowicz M, Dzierzanowski T. Prospects for the Use of Cannabinoids in Psychiatric Disorders. Front Psychiatry. 2021;12:620073. Published 2021 Mar 12. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.620073

Prospects for the Use of Cannabinoids in Psychiatric Disorders

The psychoactive effects of cannabis are described as euphoric, calming, anxiolytic, and sleep-inducing. On the other hand, cannabis can have adverse effects, such as paranoia, irritation, dysphoria, depression, depersonalization, and demotivation.

Cannabis and Mood Disorders

Cannabis can induce anxiety behavior and the effect seems to be dose-dependent.  Low doses may have anxiolytic properties and high doses may be ineffective or increase anxiety levels. Naive users of cannabis taking high doses can experience intense fear and anxiety up to a panic attack. On the other hand, long-term cannabis users report reduced anxiety, increased relaxation, and relief from tension. 

Cannabis and Anxiety

Cannabis has a dose-dependent effect on sleep. Low doses tend to reduce sleep onset and increase total sleep time while high doses can cause sleep disturbances.
However, there is limited evidence from clinical trials that cannabis mproves sleep in patients with sleep disorders.

Cannabis and Sleep Disorders

Cannabis can cause an increased risk of psychosis and schizophrenia but is unlikely to contribute to the development of mental illness. Evidence does not support or disapprove of cannabis as an effective drug for schizophrenia or schizophrenic psychosis. 

Cannabis and Schizophrenia and Psychosis


Cannabis is associated with cognitive impairment, including short-term memory, attention, executive functions, and psychomotor reaction. This cognitive impairment effect seems residual in heavy users. Also, the clinical evidence for cannabinoids for the treatment of alzheimers disease is scarce.

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