Crohn’s disease and medical cannabis

Women with well-controlled Crohn’s disease tend to have comparable fertility rates and birth outcomes as women without the condition. Premature delivery (before 37 weeks) and low-birth-weight babies have been linked in several studies. Women with active Crohn’s disease are thought to be more vulnerable to these unfavourable effects.

If you are a woman with Crohn’s disease, we urge that you consult with your provider before trying to conceive. Your doctor may advise you to try to get your Crohn’s disease under control before attempting to conceive. We also advise pregnant women with Crohn’s disease to see a high-risk obstetrician.

The likelihood of a Crohn’s disease flare during pregnancy is the same as it is in the general population. The therapy for Crohn’s disease in pregnant women is largely the same as for non-pregnant women. It is also critical to continue your Crohn’s disease treatments during your pregnancy. You should speak with your doctor about this in great detail. Methotrexate, thalidomide, and some antibiotics are notable exceptions that must be discontinued prior to pregnancy since they might cause birth abnormalities.

The manner of delivery (vaginal versus C-section) is usually up to you and your physician. A gastroenterologist will only recommend a C-section over a vaginal birth in circumstances of active perianal illness.

Smoking
Has been demonstrated to raise the risk of Crohn’s disease and to aggravate the illness’s progression. Smokers may be less receptive to some therapies and are more likely to have a Crohn’s disease relapse after surgery. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to keep your illness from deteriorating.

NSAIDs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. 
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, have been linked to IBD flares in roughly 25% of patients, according to research. These flares often occur within one week of beginning regular drug use. Aspirin and acetaminophen (Tylenol) appear to be safe. Celebrex (celecoxib) is a cox-2 inhibitor, a kind of NSAID that looks to be safe. All of these drugs should be discussed with your doctor.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the digestive tract, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss. It can lead to serious complications like bowel obstructions, fistulas, abscesses, and even an increased risk of colon cancer.

Additionally, the impact of Crohn’s disease extends beyond physical symptoms, often significantly affecting patients’ quality of life due to its unpredictable nature, the need for lifelong management, and the potential for social stigma and psychological distress.

While treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation, there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, emphasising the seriousness of this condition and the importance of ongoing medical care and support.

The life expectancy of individuals with Crohn’s disease can vary widely depending on factors such as disease severity, complications, response to treatment, and overall health.

While Crohn’s disease itself typically does not directly reduce life expectancy, complications arising from the condition, such as severe inflammation, malnutrition, or complications from medications, can impact longevity.

With proper medical management, including medications to control inflammation, surgical interventions when necessary, and lifestyle modifications, many individuals with Crohn’s disease can lead fulfilling lives with a near-normal life expectancy.

However, close monitoring by healthcare professionals and adherence to treatment regimens are crucial to managing the condition effectively and minimising the risk of complications that could affect longevity.

Yes, many individuals with Crohn’s disease can lead normal lives with appropriate management and support. While living with Crohn’s may involve some challenges, such as managing symptoms, adhering to treatment plans, and making lifestyle adjustments, it’s possible to achieve a good quality of life.

Treatment options, including medication, such as medical cannabis, dietary changes, and sometimes surgery, can help control symptoms and reduce inflammation, allowing individuals to participate in daily activities, pursue careers, and maintain relationships.

Additionally, support from healthcare providers, as well as counselling or support groups, can provide valuable assistance in coping with the physical and emotional aspects of life with Crohn’s.

Yes, you can take CBD with Crohn’s disease, but it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider first. CBD (cannabidiol) may help alleviate some symptoms associated with Crohn’s, such as pain and inflammation. However, because Crohn’s disease and its treatments can vary greatly from person to person, a healthcare professional can offer personalised advice and ensure that CBD won’t interfere with any medications you’re taking or exacerbate your condition.

Cannabis may help alleviate some symptoms of Crohn’s disease, such as abdominal pain, inflammation, and loss of appetite. Studies suggest that cannabinoids, particularly CBD, could have anti-inflammatory effects and help reduce the severity of symptoms. However, while some patients report relief, there is no definitive evidence that cannabis can treat or cure Crohn’s disease. More research is needed to understand its full impact, and it should only be used under medical supervision.

Yes, CBD may be used as a complementary option for managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease, though it is not a cure. Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterised by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Some research suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce symptoms like pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue that are common in Crohn’s. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating inflammation and immune responses, potentially offering relief to those with Crohn’s disease. However, while some patients report benefits, more clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness specifically for Crohn’s disease.

Yes, CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce gut inflammation. Inflammation in the gut is a key factor in conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. By interacting with the ECS, CBD helps regulate immune responses and can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that contribute to inflammation. This can potentially lead to a reduction in the severity of gut inflammation, making CBD a possible option for managing the inflammatory symptoms associated with IBD.

Yes, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can help reduce chronic inflammation for some individuals. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, particularly CB2 receptors, THC has anti-inflammatory properties that may alleviate inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. This can also contribute to pain relief in chronic conditions. However, effects vary, and side effects like drowsiness or anxiety may occur. Consult a healthcare provider to ensure THC is suitable and to determine appropriate dosing.

Depending on the patient’s specific needs and the symptoms they are treating, both sativa and indica cannabis strains can offer unique benefits when managing Crohn’s disease symptoms in the UK. A specialist in the UK must oversee access to medical cannabis, tailoring the treatment to each individual’s condition.

Indica strains for Crohn’s disease

• Benefits: Indica strains are known for their calming, sedative, and pain-relieving properties. For patients with Crohn’s disease, these strains can help relieve abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, and inflammation. Indicas are often preferred for evening or nighttime use due to their sedative effects, which may also aid sleep—an important factor in managing chronic illness.
• Example: Northern Lights is a popular indica strain that offers significant pain relief and relaxation. Cannabis strains for Crohn’s disease frequently recommend it for managing gastrointestinal discomfort, inflammation, and pain.

Sativa Strains for Crohn’s Disease

• Benefits: Sativa strains are generally associated with uplifting and energising effects. They may help combat fatigue, increase appetite, and improve mood, which can be beneficial for patients with Crohn’s disease who experience low energy, appetite loss, or depression due to chronic illness. However, we advise caution as some sativas may heighten anxiety or exacerbate symptoms in sensitive individuals.
• Example: Amnesia Haze is a sativa-dominant strain that may help stimulate appetite and reduce fatigue, although patients should use it carefully and under medical supervision.

Hybrid Strains for Balanced Relief

• Benefits: Hybrid strains, which combine elements of both indica and sativa, offer balanced relief. For patients with Crohn’s disease, hybrids can help manage multiple symptoms such as pain, inflammation, fatigue, and mood swings without causing excessive sedation.
• Example: Cannatonic, a balanced hybrid, offers high levels of CBD with moderate THC, helping to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief while maintaining clarity and focus.

A medical professional often recommends cannabis strains with a balanced ratio of CBD to THC for Crohn’s disease, as they may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. A medical professional should tailor a cannabis prescription for Crohn’s to meet individual symptom relief needs.

Yes, in the UK, it is possible to obtain a cannabis prescription for Crohn’s disease under certain medical guidelines. A specialist can assess if cannabis is suitable based on the severity of symptoms and previous treatment responses.