Debunking CBD: Does it Really Help with Pain or is it Overhyped?

Can CBD truly provide effective pain relief, or is it just another overhyped remedy? Join us in this eye-opening episode of Addiction Medicine Made Easy, where Dr. Casey Grover critically examines the realities behind cannabidiol (CBD) usage for pain management. We start the episode with inspiring encounters, including a discussion of the work of musician Matt Butler, who uses his songs to shine a light on addiction in prisons and jails. Dr. Grover also shares his heartfelt recommendation of Stephanie Wittels Wachs' book, "Everything is Wonderful and Horrible," which offers a raw perspective on coping with the loss of a loved one to overdose.

As we journey deeper, we unpack a 2024 article from the Journal of Pain by Andrew Moore, which scrutinizes the effectiveness, cost, and potential harms of CBD products. Our discussion highlights the widespread use of CBD, yet flags significant issues like product purity and labeling discrepancies. The episode dives into CBD's dual roles—both as Epidiolex for seizure disorders and as a non-pharmaceutical pain relief option. Despite its popularity, current research shows mixed results on CBD's efficacy for pain relief. Furthermore, hidden risks such as the presence of THC, sedation, and hepatotoxicity are explored. This episode underscores the necessity for ongoing research and thoughtful consideration when using CBD, especially in the context of addiction treatment. Don't miss out on this thorough examination of CBD's complexities and what they mean for pain management and addiction medicine.