Cannabinoids are helpful in treating chronic neuropathic pain and chronic geriatric pain. However, additional caution must be exercised when prescribing geriatric patients cannabinoids due to altered pharmacokinetics as well as drug–drug interactions (particularly increased bleeding risks with warfarin).

The overall data on cannabinoids for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain are inconclusive. However, available data do strongly support the use of cannabinoids in treating fibromyalgia pain.

The use of cannabinoids as an adjunct in cancer pain is generally supported, but results are less conclusive. Opioids remain the mainstay for the treatment of moderate to severe cancer pain. However, opioids are associated with many serious adverse effects.

The use of cannabinoids in acute postoperative pain is not supported. One study demonstrated worsening pain in patients treated with cannabinoids postoperatively.

The side effects of cannabinoids are relatively mild in comparison with opioids. However, cannabis usage is still linked to addiction, especially if it begins in youth. Short-term usage can impair memory, coordination, and judgment. Long-term usage in younger individuals can lead to altered brain development with cognitive impairment, including lower IQ, poor educational performance, and higher psychiatric illnesses. Cannabis smoking also causes airway irritation, cough, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

There is a paucity of data comparing cannabinoids directly to opioids for pain relief. Additional studies are needed to determine optimal forms, administration routes, and doses of cannabinoids for each subtype of acute and chronic pain.