CBD Oil for Pain Management in NZ: Everything You Need to Know

CBD oil is a relatively new treatment option for pain management in NZ. CBD oil has shown promise as an effective treatment for pain relief in both human and animal studies. In New Zealand, it is estimated that one in five adults experiences persistent pain. Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts beyond 12 weeks. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraines, nerve damage and endometriosis. Chronic pain can have a major impact on your quality of life, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks and enjoy activities that you used to enjoy.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD Oil is a natural product derived from a plant that contains more than 100 different compounds called cannabinoids. Each cannabinoid has its own unique effect on the body. THC is the cannabinoid known for producing mind altering effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) alone does not produce any psychoactive effects, in fact there is evidence to suggest it has antipsychotic properties. This means that you won't experience the "high" often associated with consuming recreational cannabis. Instead, it offers a number of potential health benefits, including pain relief. CBD oil is available in a variety of forms, including tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and vape oils. It can be taken orally, applied to the skin, or inhaled through a medical vaporiser. Create an account to access our patient portal to see what products are available in New Zealand.

How Does CBD Oil Work?

Cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate various biological functions, including sleep, appetite, pain, and inflammation. When something is awry in the ECS, cannabidiol may help restore balance by interacting with receptors in the nervous system that modulate pain and inflammation signals sent to the brain. This interaction between cannabinoids and the ECS may help reduce chronic pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Is CBD Oil Safe?

CBD oil is generally considered safe for most adults to use. However, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of, including dry mouth, drowsiness, light headedness, and decreased appetite. Additionally, it may interact with other medications you're taking, so it's important to speak with your doctor before using cannabinoid oil for pain relief. At RestoreMe we carry out comprehensive patient assessments to ensure the medicine we prescribe is right for you.

Is CBD Oil effective for treating pain?

There is preliminary evidence to suggest that cannabinoid oil may be effective for managing chronic pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. A comprehensive 2018 meta-analysis suggests cannabidiol was safe and well tolerated in humans with MS. However, research in this area is limited and so the efficacy of medicinal cannabis in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis is still considered unproven.

For patients suffering from chronic pain, the prospect of finding relief can be a welcome one and for many, medical cannabis offers hope. If you're considering starting cannabinoid-based medicine for pain relief, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's important to consult with your doctor to ensure that medical cannabis is suitable for you. They can help you determine the best course of treatment and monitor your progress. If you are provided a prescription, start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. It can take some time to find the right dose, so be patient. Finally, pay attention to how your body responds to the medication. Some people find that cannabinoids relieve their pain effectively, while others may experience only minimal relief or none at all. But don't give up hope—many New Zealanders are now using medical cannabis as a way to manage their pain.

Where to get a prescription

CBD oil can be prescribed for pain in NZ either by your GP, specialist doctors or clinics. While the plant was once viewed as an illicit substance with no medical value, it is now recognised as a potential treatment for a wide range of conditions. As a result, an increasing number of healthcare providers are offering medical cannabis treatments. However, not all clinics can provide the same level of care when it comes to treatments. When choosing a healthcare provider for medical cannabis treatments, it is important to choose a specialist clinic that has experience in this field. A specialist clinic will be up-to-date on the latest research and developments in medical cannabinoids, and they will be able to offer you the best possible care.

At the RestoreMe Clinic, our team of healthcare experts are formally trained in medicine and natural medicine. Consults start at just $69. To book your appointment, get started with our eligibility survey.

References

1. https://jresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-022-00154-9

2. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-Cannabinoids.aspx

3. http://www.eurekaselect.com/article/45767

4. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569

5. https://jresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-022-00154-9

6. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2706499