doi: 10.7759/cureus.80198. eCollection 2025 Mar.
A Survey on the Use of Cannabidiol (CBD) Isolate, Its Perceived Benefits, and Associated Side Effects Among Subjects With Chronic Pain
- PMID: 40196085
- PMCID: PMC11973414
- DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80198
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic pain is a pervasive health issue in the United States, affecting up to 50 million adults and contributing to a substantial economic burden. The worsening opioid crisis has increased the need for nonopiate, nonaddictive alternatives to pain management. Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently garnered attention for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties without addictive or dependence potential. However, there is limited research regarding the efficacy and safety of CBD in the treatment of chronic pain. This study aimed to explore the use of CBD isolate in adults suffering from chronic pain.
Methods: We decided to investigate its perceived effectiveness, dosage, frequency of use, and reported side effects through a publicly available, completely anonymous Qualtrics survey. This survey was posted online and in multiple medical clinics.
Results: The key findings of our anonymous online survey are that the use of cannabinoids is positively associated with decreased chronic pain, even at low dosages (<100 mg). In addition, though some mild side effects are noted, the majority of patients self-report no side effects, and there are no noted severe side effects.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that CBD may serve as a promising alternative to conventional pain management strategies. However, the results warrant further investigation and research into the efficacy and safety of CBD for chronic pain. We believe these data point the way for new and continued avenues of research that can better optimize treatment regimens and help patients with chronic pain.
Keywords: cannabis use, cbd products, chronic pain management, marijuana use, opioid medication
Copyright © 2025, Huang et al.
Conflict of interest statement
Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) Institutional Review Board (IRB) issued approval HS220517-E-1. The research protocol was reviewed by the ACOM IRB and was determined to be exempt from further IRB oversight (HS220517-E-1). Informed consent was collected on the first page of the survey.
Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.
