Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Petition: All Forms of Arthritis, fibromyalgia and gout.

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Saturday, September 16th 2017


New Mexico State Department of Health
Medical Cannabis Advisory Board
Medical Cannabis Program
PO Box 26110
Santa Fe, NM, 87502-6110


Petition: Requesting The Inclusion Of A New Medical Condition: To Include: All Forms of Arthritis
There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia and gout.



Table of Contents
Pg.  1 Cover Page
Pg.  2 Petition Introduction
Pg.  3 Petition Purpose and Background
Pg.  23 Relief Requested In Petition
Pg.  23-26 References



Petition: Requesting The Inclusion Of A New Medical Condition: To Include: All Forms of Arthritis
There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia and gout.

New Mexico’s medical cannabis history started in 1978, after public hearings the legislature enacted H.B. 329, the nation’s first law recognizing the medical value of cannabis. The New Mexico’s medical cannabis program (MCP)  is the only program in the U.S. that places sole responsibility for regulation on the state’s Department of Health. Doctors must comply with state requirements for patients to be considered for applying to the medical cannabis program.

In the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act, (2007) the law states; The Secretary of Health shall establish an advisory board consisting of eight practitioners representing the fields of neurology, pain management, medical oncology, psychiatry, infectious disease, family medicine and gynecology. The practitioners shall be nationally board-certified in their area of specialty and knowledgeable about the medical use of cannabis. The members shall be chosen for appointment by the Secretary from a list proposed by the New Mexico Medical Society. A quorum of the advisory board shall consist of three members. The advisory board shall:
A. review and recommend to the department for approval additional debilitating medical conditions that would benefit from the medical use of cannabis;
B. accept and review petitions to add medical conditions, medical treatments or diseases to the list of debilitating medical conditions that qualify for the medical use of cannabis;
C. convene at least twice per year to conduct public hearings and to evaluate petitions, which shall be maintained as confidential personal health information, to add medical conditions, medical treatments or diseases to the list of debilitating medical conditions that qualify for the medical use of cannabis;
D. issue recommendations concerning rules to be promulgated for the issuance of the registry identification cards; and
E. recommend quantities of cannabis that are necessary to constitute an adequate supply for qualified patients and primary caregivers.

First, do no harm.  As an important step in becoming a doctor, medical students must take the Hippocratic Oath. And one of the promises within that oath is “first, do no harm”.  

We have a sound law in the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act, as Section 2 reads; PURPOSE OF ACT.--The purpose of the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act is to allow the beneficial use of medical cannabis in a regulated system for alleviating symptoms caused by debilitating medical conditions and their medical treatments.
“ARTICLE 2B. LYNN AND ERIN COMPASSIONATE USE ACT
N.M. Stat. Ann. § 26-2B-2 (2009)
    § 26-2B-2. Purpose of act
The purpose of the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act [26-2B-1 NMSA 1978] is to allow the beneficial use of medical cannabis in a regulated system for alleviating symptoms caused by debilitating medical conditions and their medical treatments.
HISTORY: Laws 2007, ch. 210, § 2.
EFFECTIVE DATES. --Laws 2007, ch. 210, § 12 makes the act effective July 1, 2007.”

Mosby’s Medical Dictionary states that “medical treatment” means; the management and care of a patient to combat disease or disorder. Medical treatment includes: Using prescription medications, or use of a non-prescription drug at prescription strength; and or treatment of disease by hygienic and pharmacologic remedies, as distinguished from invasive surgical procedures. Treatment may be pharmacologic, using drugs; surgical, involving operative procedures; or supportive, building the patient's strength. It may be specific for the disorder, or symptomatic to relieve symptoms without effecting a cure.(Mosby's Medical Dictionary, 9th edition.)

What is a chronic medical condition?
A chronic disease is one lasting 3 months or more, by the definition of the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics. Chronic diseases generally cannot be prevented by vaccines or cured by medication, nor do they just disappear. Harvard Medical Dictionary defines chronic as: Any condition that lasts a long time or recurs over time; chronic pain as: Pain that persists after an injury has healed or a disease is over; and chronic pain syndrome as : Long-term, severe pain that doesn't spring from an injury or illness, that interferes with daily life, and is often accompanied by other problems, such as depression, irritability, and anxiety.
What is the meaning of debilitating?
Something that's debilitating seriously affects someone or something's strength or ability to carry on with regular activities, like a debilitating illness. Debilitating comes from the Latin word debilis, meaning "weak." That's why you'll often see the adjective used to describe illness, despite the negative reference.
Petition Purpose and Background

The purpose of this Petition: Requesting The Inclusion Of A New Medical Condition: To Include: All Forms of Arthritis
There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia and gout.

This Petition: Requesting The Inclusion Of A New Medical Condition: To Include: All Forms of Arthritis is being provided to the state Department of Health Medical Cannabis Program so the advisory board can review and recommend to the department for approval additional debilitating medical conditions that would benefit from the medical use of cannabis with the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act.

Who Should Qualify for Medical Cannabis Use?
According to Americans For Safe Access Policy Studies & Research:
Background: The most fundamental aspect of medical cannabis laws is the relationship between a patient and their physician. It is often only the physician and the patient that possess information about a patient’s health condition. However, many public officials and others who oppose medical cannabis laws often make assumptions about people’s health. The media have even fomented such inappropriate assumptions by naming a category of patients “Young Able Bodied Males,” condemning certain patients by visual assessment alone.
Findings: The health care information discussed between a patient and physician is considered private and protected under federal HIPAA laws. It is typically the purview of state medical boards to assess whether a physician has inappropriately recommended cannabis to someone who should not be qualified. Studies have shown in some medical cannabis states that the majority of patients suffer from chronic pain, an ailment that is not obviously detectable by another person. Nevertheless, police will often harass and arrest patients based on the assumption that someone is faking their illness.

Position: Medical professionals should have an unrestricted ability to recommend cannabis therapeutics and that should not be impacted by law enforcement’s perceptions.

Americans For Safe Access policy further states:
“Qualifying medical condition” shall mean any condition for which treatment with medical cannabis would be beneficial, as determined by a patient's qualified medical professional, including but not limited to cancer, glaucoma, positive status for human immunodeficiency virus, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), hepatitis C, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, post-traumatic stress disorder, arthritis, chronic pain, neuropathic and other intractable chronic pain, and multiple sclerosis.
“Qualifying patient” shall mean a person who has a written recommendation from a qualified medical professional for the medical use of cannabis.

Petition: All Forms of Arthritis; There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia and gout.
(New Research Material Added Starts Here)

Arthritis is a disorder that causes inflammation and pain of one or more joints. Studies have shown cannabis has anti-arthritic effects and can help manage pain and inflammation associated with the disorder.
OVERVIEW OF ARTHRITIS
Arthritis is a condition characterized by joint pain. There are 100 different types of arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation, but common symptoms among all the types include swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, which is the wearing down of the protective cartilage on the ends of bones. Another common type is rheumatoid arthritis, which is when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, including the synovium that lines the joints. Other more common types of arthritis include juvenile arthritis, which develops in children; psoriatic arthritis, which affects people with psoriasis; infectious arthritis, which is an infection that spreads to a joint; and gout, which is caused by the buildup of uric acid. The pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritis can fluctuate in severity and varies between individual. Severe arthritis can cause such intense chronic pain that the ability to maintain daily activities is affected. Arthritis treatment focuses on relieving pain and swelling with medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

FINDINGS: EFFECTS OF CANNABIS ON ARTHRITIS

Preclinical trials suggest that cannabis can help limit the damage of different types of arthritis. In an animal trial, cannabidiol (CBD), a major cannabinoid found in cannabis, effectively blocked the progression of arthritis. Researchers found that CBD protected joints against severe damage and concluded that CBD offers a potent anti-arthritic effect9. Other studies have found that synthetic cannabinoids offer strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and reduce joint damage in mice with osteoarthritis4,9,10. Most recently, cannabinoid treatments were found effective for reducing osteoarthritis-related cartilage breakdown7. Research has also shown that cannabis can help manage the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. CBD, and another major cannabinoid found in cannabis — tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — activate the two main cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) of the endocannabinoid system within the body. Studies have shown the cannabinoid receptor system present in the synovium of joints could be a therapeutic target for addressing the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis6,10. These two receptors regulate neurotransmitter release and central nervous system immune cells to reduce pain14. Activating the CB1 receptor has been specifically found to reduce pain sensitivity in the osteoarthritic knee joints of rats10. One study found that cannabis-based medicine significantly improved pain during joint movement, pain while at rest, and quality of sleep in patients with rheumatoid arthritis3. Numerous preclinical studies have confirmed cannabis’ anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects and they support the idea that the endocannabinoid system is involved in alleviating pain associated with arthritis8.

STATES THAT HAVE APPROVED MEDICAL CANNABIS FOR ARTHRITIS

Currently, Arkansas, California, Illinois (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), and New Mexico have approved medical cannabis for the treatment of arthritis. However, in Washington D.C., any condition can be approved for medical marijuana as long as a DC-licensed physician recommends the treatment. In addition, various other states will consider allowing medical cannabis to be used for the treatment of arthritis with the recommendation from a physician. These states include: Connecticut (other medical conditions may be approved by the Department of Consumer Protection), Massachusetts (other conditions as determined in writing by a qualifying patient’s physician), Nevada (other conditions subject to approval), Oregon (other conditions subject to approval), Rhode Island (other conditions subject to approval), and Washington (any “terminal or debilitating condition”). Several states have approved medical cannabis specifically to treat “chronic pain,” a symptom commonly associated with arthritis. These states include: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia. The states of Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Montana, Ohio and Vermont allow medical marijuana to treat “severe pain.” The states of Arkansas, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington, and West Virginia have approved cannabis for the treatment of “intractable pain.”

RECENT STUDIES ON CANNABIS’ EFFECT ON ARTHRITIS

      • Activating CB2 receptors reduces osteoarthritic knee pain. Cannabinoid CB2 Receptors Regulate Central Sensitization and Pain Responses Associated with Osteoarthritis of the Knee Joint. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3840025/)
      • CBD found to have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, and therefore shown to be a potent anti-arthritic. The nonpsychoactive cannabis constituent cannabidiol is an oral anti-arthritic therapeutic in murine collagen-induced arthritis.(http://www.pnas.org/content/97/17/9561.full)
References
  1. Arthritis. (2014, July 15). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/basics/definition/con-20034095.
  2. Arthritis. (n.d.). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/arthritis.html – cat51.
  3. Blake, D.R., Robson, P., Ho, M., Jubb, R.W., and McCabe, C.S. (2006, January). Preliminary assessment of the efficacy, tolerability and safety of a cannabis-based medicine (Sativex) in the treatment of pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology, 45(1), 50-2. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/rheumatology/kei183.
  4. Burston, J.J., Sagar, D.R., Shao, P., Bai, M., King, E., Brailsford, L., Turner, J.M., Hathway, G.J., Bennett, A.J., Walsh, D.A., Kendall, D.A., Lichtman, A., and Chapman, V. (2013). Cannabinoid CB2 Receptors Regulate Central Sensitization and Pain Responses Associated with Osteoarthritis of the Knee Joint. PLoS ONE, 8(11), e80440. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3840025/.
  5. Dunn, S.L., Wilkinson, J.M., Crawford, A., Le Maitre, C.L., Bunning, R.A. (2014, January). Cannabinoid WIN-55,212-2 mesylate inhibits interleukin-1b induced matrix metalloproteinase and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase expression in human chondrocytes. Osteoarthritis Cartilage, 22(1), 133-44. Retrieved from http://www.oarsijournal.com/article/S1063-4584(13)00999-0/fulltext.
  6. Fukada, S., Kohsaka, H., Takayasu, A., Yokoyama, W., Miyabe, C., Miyabe, Y., Harigai, M., Miyasaka, N., and Nanki, T. (2004). Cannabinoid receptor 2 as a potential therapeutic target in rheumatoid arthritis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 15, 275. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4243420/.
  7. Kong, Y., Wang, W., Zhang, C., Wu, Y., Liu, Y., and Zhou, X. (2016, June). Cannabinoid WIN‑55,212‑2 mesylate inhibits ADAMTS‑4 activity in human osteoarthritic articular chondrocytes by inhibiting expression of syndecan‑1. Molecular Medicine Reports, 13(6), 4569-76. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4878569/.
  8. La Porta, C., Bura, S.A., Negrete, R., and Maldonado, R. (2014, February). Involvement of the endocannabinoid system in osteoarthritis pain. The European Journal of Neuroscience, 39(3), 485-500. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/wol1/doi/10.1111/ejn.12468/full.
  9. Malfait, A.M., Gallily, R., Sumariwalla, P.F., Malik, A.S., Andreakos, E., Mechoulam, R., and Feldmann, M. (2000). The nonpsychoactive cannabis constituent cannabidiol is an oral anti-arthritic therapeutic in murine collagen-induced arthritis. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 97(17), 9561–9566. Retrieved from http://www.pnas.org/content/97/17/9561.full.
  10. Richardson, D., Pearson, R.G., Kurian, N., Latif, M.L., Garle, M.J., Barrett, D.A., Kendall, D.A., Scammell, B.E., Reeve, A.J., and Chapman, V. (2008). Characterisation of the cannabinoid receptor system in synovial tissue and fluid in patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Research & Therapy, 10:R43. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2453762/.
  11. Schuelert, N., and McDougall, J.J. (2008, January). Cannabinoid-mediated antinociception is enhanced in rat osteoarthritic knees. Arthritis and Rheumatism, 58(1), 145-53. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.23156/full.
  12. Sumariwalla, P.F., Gallily, R., Tchilibon, S., Fride, E., Mechoulam, R., and Feldmann, M. (2004, March). A novel synthetic, nonpsychoactive cannabinoid acid (HU-320) with antiinflammatory properties in murine collagen-induced arthritis. Arthritis and Rheumatism, 50(3), 985-98. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.20050/full.
  13. Sumariwalla, P.F., Palmer, C.D., Pickford, L.B., Feldmann, M., Foxwell, B.M., and Brennan, F.M. (2009, January). Suppression of tumour necrosis factor production from mononuclear cells by a novel synthetic compound, CLX-090717. Rheumatology (Oxford), 48(1), 32-8. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/rheumatology/ken398.
  14. What Is Arthritis? (n.d.). Arthritis Foundation. Retrieved from http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis.php.
  15. Woodhams, S.G., Sagar, D.R., Burston, J.J., and Chapman, V. (2015). The role of the endocannabinoid system in pain. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, 227, 119-43. Retrieved from http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007%2F978-3-662-46450-2_7.

Osteoarthritis and cannabis – Information comes from scientists in the UK and USA, published in PLOS ONE in 2013. Osteoarthritis pain is challenging to treat, with chronic pain leading to central sensitization. Cannabinoids can help. This data provides new clinically relevant evidence that joint damage and spinal CB2 receptor expression are correlated combined with converging pre-clinical evidence that activation of CB2 receptors inhibits central sensitization and its contribution to the manifestation of chronic OA pain. These findings suggest that targeting CB2 receptors may have therapeutic potential for treating OA pain. http://cannabisclinicians.org/osteorthritis-pain-and-cannabinoids/

Although fibromyalgia is often considered an arthritis-related condition, it is not truly a form of arthritis (a disease of the joints) because it does not cause inflammation or damage to the joints, muscles, or other tissues. Like arthritis, however, fibromyalgia can cause significant pain and fatigue, and it can interfere with a person’s ability to carry on daily activities. Also like arthritis, fibromyalgia is considered a rheumatic condition, a medical condition that impairs the joints and/or soft tissues and causes chronic pain.

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by intense musculoskeletal pain that affects 5 million Americans. Studies have shown marijuana effectively lowers pain levels and improves quality of sleep in patients.

OVERVIEW OF FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia is a common disorder characterized by widespread pain and fatigue that primarily affects women. The disorder can greatly affect a person’s abilities to perform daily activities and causes sleep problems. According to Mayo Clinic, having fibromyalgia affects the way the brain processes pain signals and makes painful sensations feel amplified.
In addition to pain, fatigue and sleep problems, those with fibromyalgia may also experience cognitive and memory problems, headaches, morning stiffness, painful menstrual periods, numbness or tingling, restless legs syndrome, temperature to sensitivity, irritable bowel syndrome, and depression.
The causes of fibromyalgia remain unknown, but the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases notes that many people associate their fibromyalgia to a physically or emotionally stressful or traumatic event. Repetitive injuries or illnesses are also commonly associated to fibromyalgia by patients. Others claim the disorder developed spontaneously.
There is no cure of fibromyalgia, so treatment focus is on controlling symptoms with pain relievers, antidepressants, exercise and therapy.
Most common symptoms of fibromyalgia are:
Diffuse tenderness – sensitive to touch or pressure
Sleep disturbances and unrefreshed sleep
Exhaustion and fatigue
Brain fog – problems with thinking or memory
Mood problems like depression / anxiety
Headaches

Additionally, many fibro patients also suffer with:
Digestive problems like IBS and GERD
Irritable or overactive bladder
Pelvic pain
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)

Fibromyalgia can occur in men or women, but is most common in women. Symptoms most often appear as a young adult, but onset can happen at any age.

FINDINGS: EFFECTS OF CANNABIS ON FIBROMYALGIA

The cannabinoids contained in cannabis have both analgesic and sleep-promoting effects to help fibromyalgia patients manage symptoms. Studies have found that cannabis is effective at improving sleep disruption, pain, depression, joint stiffness, anxiety, physical function and quality of life in individuals with fibromyalgia (de Souza Nascimento, et al., 2013) (Russo, 2004).
While fibromyalgia is known for causing intense and unrelenting musculoskeletal pain, cannabis has proven effective at offering fibromyalgia patients relief. Fibromyalgia patients treated with cannabis and assessed over a seven-month period experienced significant pain intensity improvements and were able to reduce their doses of opioids (Weber, et al., 2009). One study discovered that after four weeks of cannabis treatment, fibromyalgia patients experienced significantly less pain and anxiety whereas a placebo group saw no improvements (Skrabek, Galimova, Ethans & Perry, 2008). Another study reported significant reductions in pain and stiffness, an enhancement of relaxation and an increase in somnolence and feeling of well being in fibromyalgia patients two hours after they smoked or orally consumed cannabis (Fiz, et al., 2011).
Cannabis has also been found to be effective at improving sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia (Ware, Fitzcharles, Joseph & Shir, 2010).

STATES THAT HAVE APPROVED MEDICAL CANNABIS FOR FIBROMYALGIA

Only the states of Arkansas, Illinois, North Dakota and Ohio have approved medical marijuana specifically for the treatment of fibromyalgia.
However, several states have approved medical cannabis specifically to treat “chronic pain,” a symptom commonly associated with fibromyalgia. These states include: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The states of Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Montana, Ohio, Vermont, and West Virginia allow medical marijuana to treat “severe pain.” The states of Arkansas, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington, and West Virginia have approved cannabis for the treatment of “intractable pain.”
Sixteen states have approved medical cannabis for the treatment of spasms. These states include: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island and Washington.
A number of other states will consider allowing medical cannabis to be used for the treatment of fibromyalgia with the recommendation by a physician. These states include: California (any debilitating illness where the medical use of cannabis has been recommended by a physician), Connecticut (other medical conditions may be approved by the Department of Consumer Protection), Massachusetts (other conditions as determined in writing by a qualifying patient’s physician), Nevada (other conditions subject to approval), Oregon (other conditions subject to approval), Rhode Island (other conditions subject to approval), and Washington (any “terminal or debilitating condition”).
In Washington D.C., any condition can be approved for medical cannabis as long as a DC-licensed physician recommends the treatment.

RECENT STUDIES ON CANNABIS’ EFFECT ON FIBROMYALGIA

  • Fibromyalgia patients experienced significant reductions in pain and stiffness, an enhancement of relaxation, and an increase in somnolence and feeling of well being, two hours after smoking or orally consuming cannabis.
  • Cannabis use in patients with fibromyalgia: effect on symptoms relief and health-related quality of life.
References:
Chiari malformation and syringomyelia. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/clinical-updates/neurosciences/chiari-malformation-syringomyelia.
de Souza Nascimento, S., Desantana, J.M., Nampo, F.K., Ribeiro, E.A., da Silva, D.L., Araujo-Junior, J.X., da Silva Almeida, J.R., Bonjardim, L.R., de Souza Araujo, A.A., and Quintans-Junior, L.J. (2013). Efficacy and safety of medicinal plants or related natural products for fibromyalgia: a systematic review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3687718/.
Fibromyalgia. (2014, February 20). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/basics/definition/con-20019243.
Fibromyalgia. (2014, July). National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Retrieved from http://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/fibromyalgia/.
Fiz., J., Duran, M., Capella, D., Carbonell, J., and Farre, M. (2011, April). Cannabis use in patients with fibromyalgia: effect on symptoms relief and health-related quality of life. PLoS One, 6(4). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3080871/.
Russo, E.B. (2004, February-April). Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD): can this concept explain therapeutic benefits of cannabis in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other treatment-resistant conditions? Neuro Endocrinology Letters, 25(1-2), 31-9. Retrieved from http://www.nel.edu/pdf_/25_12/NEL251204R02_Russo_.pdf.
Skrabek, R.Q., Galimova, L., Ethans, K., and Perry. D. (2008, February). Nabilone for the treatment of pain in fibromyalgia. Journal of Pain, 9(2), 164-73. Retrieved from http://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(07)00873-5/fulltext.
Ste-Marie, P.A., Fitzcharles, M.A., Gamsa, A., Ware, M.A., and Shir, Y. (2012, August). Association of herbal cannabis use with negative psychosocial parameters in patients with fibromyalgia. Arthritis Care & Research, 64(8), 1202-8. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/acr.21732/full.
Ware, M.A., Fitzcharles, M.A., Joseph, L., and Shir, Y. (2010, February 1). The effects of nabilone on sleep in fibromyalgia: results of a randomized controlled trial. Anesthesia and Analgesia, 110(2), 604-10. Retrieved from http://journals.lww.com/anesthesia-analgesia/pages/articleviewer.aspx?year=2010&issue=02000&article=00056&type=abstract.
Weber, J., Schley, M., Casutt, M., Gerber, H., Schuepfer, G., Rukwied, R., Schleinzer, W., Ueberall, M., and Konrad, C. (2009). Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 9-THC) Treatment in Chronic Central Neuropathic Pain and Fibromyalgia Patients: Results of a Multicenter Survey. Anesthesiology Research and Practice, 2009. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2925209/.
Wissel, J., Haydn, T., Muller, J., Brenneis, C., Berger, T., Poewe, W., and Schelosky, L.D. (2006, October). Low dose treatment with the synthetic cannabinoid Nabilone significantly reduces spasticity-related pain: a double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over trial. Journal of Neurology, 253(10), 1337-41. Retrieved from http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00415-006-0218-8.


Cannabinoids—Benefit Gout

One of the plants oldest recorded uses is relieving swelling and inflammation.  Currently, modern scientists are exploring a network of cannabinoid receptor sites located throughout the body.  This new understandings of cannabinoid research clearly supports the historical references on treating inflammation with cannabis.  Different cannabinoids found naturally in cannabis have different benefits for arthritis sufferers.  Tetrahydroconnabinol (THC) is beneficial as a pain reliever.  Cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have been shown in clinical studies to have valuable anti-inflammatory properties.

Condition Description
Arthritis literally means "joint inflammation".  It consists of more than 100 different conditions.  The common symptoms for all these conditions are joint and musculoskeletal pain, which is why they are all considered forms of “arthritis'.  Often the pain associated with arthritis is a result of inflammation of the joint lining.  Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury.  The warning signs that inflammation presents are redness, swelling, heat and pain.  When a joint becomes inflamed, it can prevent the normal use of the joint and therefore it can cause the loss of function of joint.
Gout is one of the most painful forms of arthritis.  Gout is caused when crystals of uric acid form in the connective tissue and/or joint spaces.

Research

Arthritis and Cannabinoids: HU-210 and Win-55, 212-2 Prevent IL-1Alpha-Induced Matrix Degradation in Bovine Articular Chondrocytes In-Vitro.
Mbvundula EC, Bunning RA, Rainsford KD.
Biomedical Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, S1 1WB, UK.

Cannabinoids have analgesic, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties and attenuate joint damage in animal models of arthritis.  In this study the mechanisms of action of the synthetic cannabinoid agonists, HU-210 and Win-55,212-2, were studied to determine if they affected interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1alpha)-induced proteoglycan and collagen degradation in bovine nasal cartilage explant cultures and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in primary cultures of bovine articular chondrocytes.  The effects of the inactive enantiomer, Win-55,212-3, were compared with those of the active enantiomer, Win-55,212-2, to determine if the effects were cannabinoid (CB)-receptor mediated.  The chondrocytes and explants were stimulated by IL-1alpha (100 U mL(-1) identical with 0.06 nM and 500 U mL(-1) identical with 0.3 nM, respectively).  Proteoglycan breakdown was determined as sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) release using the dimethylmethylene blue assay.  Collagen degradation was determined as hydroxyproline in the conditioned culture media and cartilage digests.  ELISA determined PGE2.  Expression of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2; cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 (COX-1 and COX-2); inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS); as well as activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) in chondrocytes were studied using immunoblotting techniques and immunofluorescence.

The results showed that HU-210 and Win-55,212-2 (5-15 microM) significantly inhibited IL-1-alpha stimulated proteoglycan (P < 0.001) and collagen degradation (P < 0.001).  Win-55,212-2 (5-10 microM) also significantly inhibited PGE2 production (P < 0.01).  At 5 microM, Win-55,212-2 inhibited the expression of iNOS and COX-2 and activation of NF-kappaB.  Chondrocytes appeared to constitutively express cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2.  It is concluded that biologically stable synthetic cannabinoids protect cartilage matrix from degradation induced by cytokines and this effect is possibly CB-receptor mediated and involves effects on prostaglandin and nitric oxide metabolism.  Cannabinoids could also be producing these effects via inhibition of NF-kappaB activation.

Cannabinoid Research
Sativex
Sativex (CBM) is a marijuana-based drug that was developed by GW Pharmaceuticals in 2005 as a treatment for Multiple Sclerosis.  Sativex has however been shown to have beneficial effects in rheumatoid arthritis.  Tests of Sativex on arthritis patients showed it helped reduce pain, and improve quality of sleep.  Sativex is not psychoactive and comes in the form of a mouth spray composed mainly of two cannabinoids found naturally in cannabis, Tetrahydroconnabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Topical application of cannabis extract on cases of arthropathy (gout) were done in So.  Calif.  Positive test results:  less inflammation, less pain than placebo group.
(New Research Material Added Ends Here)

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
While arthritis involves the painful inflammation of one’s joints, Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease (a condition in which the individual’s own immune system attacks itself) characterized by chronic and systemic inflammation throughout several parts of the sufferer’s skeletal system and body. It is a severely disabling ailment that often comes with chronic pain. The ailment is not restricted to just one’s joints, but may also affect one’s skin, eyes, lungs, heart, blood, and or nerves.
The exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis is unknown, although genetics, diet, hormonal, and environmental factors are all believed to contribute to its development in sufferers. The disease affects everyone differently and it may develop gradually or quickly. Current medical advances do, however, offer a number of treatments and therapies aimed at tackling the symptoms of RA as well as with helping the disease go into remission.
Using Cannabis to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Cannabis is a complex medicinal plant that may actually be used to treat a variety of debilitating symptoms caused by a surprisingly large number of ailments. Its usefulness as a non-lethal medicine (you cannot die from an overdose of cannabis) cannot be overstated and its versatility in terms of how it can be consumed and as to how it can be useful for so many illnesses is something to be excited about. However, it is important to remember that consulting with your primary care physician should be your first priority when considering incorporating cannabis into one’s medical regiment and that cannabis is to be used as an adjunct therapy and not a replacement. It is also your responsibility to communicate with your doctor as to how your use of cannabis has affected your health and of your progress with utilizing medical cannabis.
With that said, studies have shown that cannabis may be quite useful for treating individuals suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis for the following reasons: reducing joint pain and swelling; suppression of joint destruction; and with helping to prevent progression/worsening of the disease.
Study: Cannabis Helps Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Cannabis has been used to help treat the inflammatory symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis for years. Despite anecdotal success, past research offers little insight into the mechanism involved in treating the condition with cannabis.
A recent study to be published in Rheumatology does just that, suggesting that the benefits could be attributed to activation of the CB2 receptor.

Researchers Investigate Potential Cannabinoid Treatment

Before diving into the study, it’s helpful to know that fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS)are the type of cells most often associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis. They become constantly engaged in inflammatory mechanisms, which causes cartilage damage, joint destruction, and deformation over time.
As we know, there are currently two widely-acknowledged cannabinoid receptors. Some suggest that more could exist, but not all are in agreement. Nonetheless, activation of the CB2 receptor in particular has shown promise in treating a number of inflammatory conditions.
“Activation of the CB2 receptor – which occurs when one consumes cannabis – could be a potential therapeutic target of rheumatoid arthritis.”
A team of researchers from China sought to determine whether a similar mechanism could be beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis. In doing so, they investigated the potential effects of CB2 receptor activation in FLS-cell types.
According to their results, rheumatoid arthritis cell-types showed an increased amount of CB2 receptor expression. Further, activating the CB2 receptors seems to have inhibited the proliferation of the FLS cells associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Medical Cannabis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

In conclusion, the Chinese team of researchers determined that activation of the CB2 receptor – which occurs when one consumes cannabis – could be a potential therapeutic target of for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Of course, the idea of applying cannabis extracts to the skin is nothing new. Cannabis infused topicals are a common method of treatment for joint pain, because they allow patients to target the areas in need of the most relief.
MEDICAL CANNABIS AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
More than 31 million Americans suffer from arthritis. There are two main types of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both affect the joints, causing pain and swelling, and limiting movement.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is caused by a malfunction of the immune system. Instead of fighting off intruders such as bacteria or viruses, the body attacks the synovial membranes, which facilitate the movement of joints, eventually destroying cartilage and eroding bones. Rheumatoid arthritis is most common among the aged, whose immune systems are no longer as robust or efficient as they were when younger.

Osteoarthritis (OA), or arthritis of the bones, is also found primarily among the elderly, where cartilage has been worn away through many years of use. Arthritis may also manifest as chronic inflammation of the joints as the result of injuries. OA is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 10 million people worldwide. Currently, no drugs are available to treat or modify this disease, and treatment is primarily focused around the use of pain killers, which often have limited benefits and hazardous side effects.

An important aspect of arthritis pathology relates to maintaining healthy bone. As people age, bones undergo extensive remodeling, which can lead to destruction or functional degradation of synovial joints. Drugs which can not only modulate pain from arthritis but also protect bones are of great importance. Cannabis and cannabinoids represent a promising treatment which can reduce arthritic pain and inflammation and positively modulate bone growth and maintenance. It has already been demonstrated that cannabinoids can effectively treat some types of arthritic pain, but recent evidence suggests that the cannabinoids are also important for bone growth and maintenance throughout life.[27-32]

The importance of cannabinoids in bone health has been established in transgenic mice that are missing either the CB1 or CB2 receptor. These mice develop osteoporosis much more quickly than normal or wild mice. Research has recently shown that mice missing both cannabinoid receptors have extremely weak bones, a condition that underlies osteoporosis and osteoarthritis pathology.[33-35]

Based on genetic screening techniques, a correlation between cannabinoids and bone is emerging in humans as well. Three studies in three distinct ethnic groups have demonstrated that mutations in the type 2 cannabinoid receptor correlate to bone diseases. One study even showed that hand bone strength weakness is very well correlated with dysfunctional/mutant CB2 receptors.

Arthritis of any type can be an extremely painful and debilitating condition that presents challenges for pain management. The use of cannabis as a treatment for musclo-skeletal pain in western medicine dates to the 1700s.[36,37] Evidence from recent research suggests that cannabis-based therapies are effective in the treatment of arthritis and the other rheumatic and degenerative hip, joint and connective tissue disorders. Since these are frequently extremely painful conditions, the well-documented analgesic properties of cannabis make it useful in treating the pain associated with arthritis, both on its own and as an adjunct therapy that substantially enhances the efficacy of opioid painkillers.

Cannabis has also been shown to have powerful immune-modulation and anti-inflammatory properties,[38-41] suggesting that it could play a role not just in symptom management but treatment of arthritis. In fact, one of the earliest records of medical use of cannabis, a Chinese text dating from ca. 2000 BC, notes that cannabis "undoes rheumatism," suggesting its anti-inflammatory and immune modulating effects were known even then.[42]

Modern research on cannabidiol (CBD), one of the non-psychoactive cannabinoid components of cannabis, has found that it suppresses the immune response in mice and rats that is responsible for a disease resembling arthritis, protecting them from severe damage to their joints and markedly improving their condition.[43,44]

Human studies have repeatedly shown cannabis to be an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, and it is one of the enumerated conditions for which many states allow legal medical use. Cannabis has a demonstrated ability to improve mobility and reduce morning stiffness and inflammation. Research has also shown that patients are able to reduce their usage of potentially harmful Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) when using cannabis as an adjunct therapy.[45,46]

Medical researchers at Hebrew University in Jerusalem found that when cannabidiol is metabolized, one result is the creation of a compound with potent anti-inflammatory action comparable to the drug indomethacin, but without the considerable gastrointestinal side effects associated with that drug.[47]

In addition, when the body metabolizes tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the primary cannabinoid components of cannabis, it produces a number of related chemicals. At least one of these metabolites has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. By modifying this metabolite, researchers have produced a synthetic carboxylic acid known as CT-3 (also called dimethylheptyl-THC-11 oic acid or DMH-11C ), which is more powerful than the natural metabolite itself, and thus can be given in smaller doses. Animal tests found CT-3 effective against both chronic and acute inflammation, and it also prevented destruction of joint tissue from chronic inflammation.

The remarkable 5,000-year safety record of cannabis - there has never been a recorded death from an overdose - and the fact that a metabolite with the desired anti-inflammatory effect is produced in the body when cannabis is used, indicates that the development of targeted, safe, and effective anti-inflammatory drugs in this class are possible.[48] CT3 has also demonstrated considerable analgesic effects in animals. In some cases, the dose-dependent effect of THC was equivalent to morphine, but with a much greater duration of action and far less toxicity.[49,50]

In contrast to the NSAIDs commonly prescribed arthritis sufferers, CT3 did not cause ulcers at therapeutically effective doses. Moreover, it does not depress respiration, produce dependence, induce body weight loss, or cause mutations, as many commonly prescribed drugs do. Studies on its mechanism of action are currently underway, with cytokine synthesis one of the pathways being studied.[51}

Cannabis may also help combat rheumatoid arthritis through its well-recognized immune-modulation properties.[52] Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by ysregulation of the immune system in response to an initial infection or trauma. Over-activity of the immune system's B-cells causes antibodies to attack and destroy the synovial tissues located in the joint.

The immunomodulatory properties of a group of fats found in cannabis, known as sterols and sterolins, have been used as natural alternatives to conventional rheumatoid arthritis treatments that employ highly toxic drugs to either suppress the entire immune response of the body or to palliate pain and the inflammatory process without correcting the underlying immune dysfunction.

Cytokines play a role in either fuelling or suppressing the inflammation that causes damage in rheumatoid arthritis and some other diseases. The release of selected cytokines is impaired by cannabis, but the findings differ by cell type, experimental conditions, and especially the concentration of the cannabinoids examined.[53-56] A sterol/sterolin combination has been experimentally demonstrated to reduce the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines controlled by the TH2 helper cells and to increase the number of TH helper cells that regulate the secretion of antibodies from the B cells. This selective activation and inhibition of the immune system results is an effective control of the dysfunctional autoimmune response.

Similarly, ajulemic acid (another non-psychoactive cannabinoid) has been found to reduce joint tissue damage in rats with adjuvant arthritis.[57] Tests on human tissue done in vitro showed a 50% suppression of one of the body's chemicals (interleukin-1beta) central to the progression of inflammation and joint tissue injury in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.[58]

Conventional Arthritis Medications

Over 100 medications are listed by the Arthritis Foundation website for use with arthritis or other related conditions, such as fibromyalgia, psoriasis, osteoporosis and gout. These medicines include aspirin, ibuprofen and other oral and topical analgesics that dull pain. The most commonly used analgesic, acetaminophen (aspirin-free Anacin, Excedrin, Panadol, Tylenol) is usually not associated with side effects, though long-term use of acetaminophen is thought to be one of the common causes of end-stage renal disease.. To effectively control arthritis, aspirin must be taken in large, continuous doses (1000-5400 mg daily), which can cause stomach pain or damage; it is believed to cause more than 1,000 deaths annually in the United States. For that reason, some doctors prescribe one of several chemical variations referred to as nonacetylated salicylates, such as CMT, Tricosal, and Trilisate, which can cause deafness or ringing in the ears in large doses.

Much stronger analgesics are also prescribed for arthritis, sometimes along with acetaminophen. These are: codeine (Dolacet, Hydrocet, Lorcet, Lortab); morphine (Avinza, Oramorph); oxycodone (Vicodin, Oxycontin, Roxicodone); propoxyphene (Percocet, Darvon, Darvocet) and tramadol (Ultram, Ultracet). These medicines can cause psychological and physical dependence, as well as constipation, dizziness, lightheadedness, mood changes, nausea, sedation, shortness of breath and vomiting. Taking high doses or mixing with alcohol can slow down breathing, a potentially fatal condition.

Analgesics don't treat the inflammation that can cause severe arthritis pain. For inflammation, steroids, NSAIDs and newer COX-2 inhibitors are prescribed. Corticosteroids (Cortisone), prednisone and related medications can cause bruising, cataracts, elevated blood sugar, hypertension, increased appetite, indigestion, insomnia, mood swings, muscle weakness, nervousness or restlessness, osteoporosis, susceptibility to infection and thin skin.

Twenty NSAIDs are available with a doctor's prescription, with three of those also available over the counter. They are diclofenac (Arthrotec, Cataflam, Voltaren); diflunisal (Dolobid); etodolac (Lodine); fenoprofen calcium (Nalfon); flurbiprofen (Ansaid); ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, Nuprin); indomethacin (Indocin); ketoprofen (Orudis); meclofenamate sodium (Meclomen); mefenamic acid (Ponstel); meloxicam (Mobic); nabumetone (Relafen); naproxen (Naprosyn, Naprelan); naproxen sodium (Anaprox, Aleve);oxaprozin (Daypro); piroxicam (Feldene); sulindac (Clinoril); and olmetin sodium (Tolectin).

Side effects of NSAIDs include abdominal or stomach cramps, edema (swelling of the feet), pain or discomfort, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness or lightheadedness, headache, heartburn or indigestion, nausea or vomiting, gastric ulcers, stomach irritation, bleeding, fluid retention, and decreased kidney function. This is because NSAIDs act on arthritis by inhibiting prostaglandins, which protect the stomach lining, promote clotting of the blood, regulate salt and fluid balance, and maintain blood flow to the kidneys. The gastrointestinal complications of NSAIDS are the most commonly reported serious adverse drug reaction, though NSAIDs are reported to cause more than 10,000 deaths and 100,000 hospitalizations annually.

The newer group of arthritis drugs is known as cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors (COX-2), which include Celebrex, Bextra and Vioxx. These medications have the same side effects as NSAIDS, except they are less likely to cause bleeding stomach ulcers and increase susceptibility to bruising or bleeding.

Non-selective NSAIDS have been associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure. Less is known or has been concluded about the cardiovascular effects f COX-2 inhibitors, though a retrospective analysis of the risk of hospital admission for heart failure done by the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto, Canada suggests some may have serious side effects. The study of 130,000 older patients found that those using Vioxx had an 80% increased risk of hospital admission for congestive heart failure. Those using non-selective NSAIDS had a 40% increased risk, and those using Celebrex had the same rate of heart failure as people who had never used NSAIDS.

Antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects of NSAIDs can mask the signs and symptoms of infection. Their use can interfere with the pharmacologic control of hypertension and cardiac failure in patients who take beta-adrenergic antagonists, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or diuretics. Long-term use may damage chondrocyte (cartilage) function.

About 60% of patients will respond to any single NSAID. Approximately 10% of rheumatoid arthritis patients will not respond to any NSAID. Biologic response modifiers such as adalimumab (Humira); etanercept (Enbrel); infliximab (Remicade), and anakinra (Kineret) are prescribed to either inhibit or the supplement the immune system components called cytokines. Rare reports of lupus (with such symptoms as rash, fever and pleurisy) have been linked to treatment with adalimumab, etanercept and infliximab. Lupus symptoms resolve when the medication is stopped. Multiple sclerosis has rarely developed in patients receiving biologic response modifiers. Seizures have been reported with etanercept.

Cannabis: By comparison, the side effects associated with cannabis are typically mild and are classified as "low risk." Euphoric mood changes are among the most frequent side effects. Cannabinoids can exacerbate schizophrenic psychosis in predisposed persons. Cannabinoids impede cognitive and psychomotor performance, resulting in temporary impairment. Chronic use can lead to the development of tolerance. Tachycardia and hypotension are frequently documented as adverse events in the cardiovascular system. A few cases of myocardial ischemia have been reported in young and previously healthy patients. Inhaling the smoke of cannabis cigarettes induces side effects on the respiratory system. Cannabinoids are contraindicated for patients with a history of cardiac ischemia. In summary, a low risk profile is evident from the literature available. Serious complications are very rare and are not usually reported during the use of cannabinoids for medical indications. (See References II)

Beneficial Cannabinoids and Terpenoids Useful for Treating Arthritis
The cannabis plant offers a plethora of therapeutic benefits and contains cannabinoids and terpenoid compounds that are useful for treating the painful symptoms of Arthritis. Many of the current studies and research surrounding cannabis as a treatment for Arthritis are focused on the anti-inflammatory properties of Cannabidiol (CBD) and on the usefulness of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as an effective pain-reliever.
it was stated that, “Taken together, these data show that CBD, through its combined immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory actions, has a potent anti-arthritic effect in CIA (collagen-induced arthritis).”
With that said, the following list also denotes which cannabinoids and terpenoids work synergistically with each other for possible therapeutic benefit. It may be beneficial to seek out strains that contain these cannabinoids and terpenoids.

Expert Opinions
“There’s no question that cannabinoids have the potential to have an impact on the disease.” – Mary-Ann Fitzcharles, MD (2011)
“We don’t know how the drug affects the disease process, but it does seem to have a positive analgesic effect on RA [rheumatoid arthritis].” – Kathryn Cunningham, PhD (2011)

“The results from the first controlled study of CBM [cannabis-based medicine] in rheumatoid arthritis are encouraging, with overall improvements in pain on movement and at rest, improvement in the quality of sleep and improvement in the overall condition of the patients’ arthritis.” – Ronald Jubb, MD (2005)

“It’s not going to cure the disease, but it will do a lot to alleviate the pain and suffering of people with rheumatoid arthritis. Cannabis is probably less harmful than other available painkillers.” – Arthritis Research Campaign (2004)

“The spinal cord is loaded with cannabinoid receptors. These cannabinoid compounds apparently reduce swelling from inflammation… But more than that, they kill the pain from inflammation specifically. They work on the peripheral nerves that carry pain from your joint into the spinal cord.” – J. Michael Walker, PhD (2000)

Rheumatoid arthritis, cannabis based medicine eases pain and suppresses disease

Arthritis & Medical Cannabis Related Clinical Information


Rules, Regulations, & Policy Solution For the Petition: Requesting The Inclusion Of A New Medical Condition: To Include: All Forms of Arthritis
There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia and gout.

The approval of this Petition: Requesting The Inclusion Of A New Medical Condition: To Include: All Forms of Arthritis, that is being provided to the state Department of Health Medical Cannabis Program so the advisory board can review and recommend to the department for approval additional debilitating medical conditions that would benefit from the medical use of cannabis with the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act. The approval of this petition would bring the Department of Health in compliance with the intent of the law and uphold the spirit of the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act, 2007. Fulfilling both;“ Section 2. PURPOSE OF ACT.--The purpose of the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act is to allow the beneficial use of medical cannabis in a regulated system for alleviating symptoms caused by debilitating medical conditions and their medical treatments” And  Section 6. ADVISORY BOARD CREATED--DUTIES: The advisory board shall: A. review and recommend to the department for approval additional debilitating medical conditions that would benefit from the medical use of cannabis.” New Mexico’s medical cannabis history started in 1978.  After public hearings the legislature enacted H.B. 329, the nation’s first law recognizing the medical value of cannabis...the first law.

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Oxford Journals: Rheumatology, 2006 Jun, 45(6): 781 (correspondence).
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Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2006 Mar, 58(3): 351-358.
BIOforum Europe, 2005 Jul, (online article).
Nature Reviews Immunology, 2005 May, 5: 400-411.
Naunyn-Schmiedberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, 2004 Mar, 369(3): 294-299.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 2000 Mar 10, 97(17): 9561-9566.
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