Targeting the endocannabinoid system for the management of low back pain

Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2024 Apr:75:102438. doi: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102438. Epub 2024 Feb 23.

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is a major unmet clinical need. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for pain, including LBP. This review examines the evidence for the ECS as a therapeutic target for LBP. While preclinical studies demonstrate the potential of the ECS as a viable therapeutic target, clinical trials have presented conflicting findings. This review underscores the need for innovative LBP treatments and biomarkers and proposes the ECS as a promising avenue for their exploration. A deeper mechanistic understanding of the ECS in LBP could inform the development of new pain management strategies.

Keywords: Cannabis; Cannabis-based therapeutics; Endocannabinoid system; Low back pain.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Endocannabinoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Low Back Pain* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Endocannabinoids