A new long-term study offers promising news for people living with chronic health issues: medicinal cannabis could be more than just a short-term fix. Researchers have found that consistent use of cannabis-based treatments may significantly ease symptoms like pain, anxiety, and fatigue over time — all without increasing the risk of serious side effects.
Real-World Results, Real Relief
Published in PLOS ONE, the study followed nearly 4,000 Australian patients over a two-year period, making it one of the most extensive analyses of its kind. These participants, all of whom were battling chronic health conditions such as pain disorders, psychiatric issues, and neurological diseases, were prescribed oral medicinal cannabis.
Instead of relying on lab tests alone, the researchers gathered real-life data, tracking how patients felt in everyday settings. The results? Most saw improvements across multiple areas, from reduced pain and anxiety to better sleep and general wellbeing.
Not Just a Buzz: Low Risk of Addiction
Crucially, the treatment didn’t lead to a higher risk of addiction or drug dependency — a key concern with conventional painkillers like opioids. In fact, the researchers noted a steady improvement in patient outcomes, with minimal adverse effects.
“Patients didn’t develop a tolerance requiring higher doses, and the risk of dependence remained low throughout the study,” explained lead researcher Associate Professor John Sarris.
Cannabis is More Than Just Pain Relief
What stood out in the study was the wide-ranging impact of medicinal cannabis. Patients reported better mental health, reduced fatigue, and even improved physical functioning. The benefits extended across age groups, with older adults experiencing similar relief to younger patients.
However, researchers cautioned that this doesn’t mean cannabis is a one-size-fits-all solution. Careful supervision by health professionals and more randomized clinical trials are needed to better understand the risks and fine-tune dosage recommendations.
These findings add to a growing body of research supporting the health benefits of cannabis-based products. Recent studies have also shown that CBD-infused pillowcases can significantly improve sleep quality among nurses working night shifts (read more), while CBD mouthwash has demonstrated powerful effects on oral health, potentially rivaling traditional antiseptic rinses (read more). As public interest in alternative wellness solutions continues to rise, such evidence highlights the versatility and potential of cannabinoid therapies in everyday health management.
