Papers of the Week

Consistent evidence supporting the use of cannabinoids for management of acute pain is lacking. A small number of observational studies suggest cannabinoid use is associated with reduced opioid use but pain scores remain unchanged. The majority of randomized trials involving a variety of cannabinoid compounds have shown no benefit for acute pain. Chronic cannabis users may be at increased risk of experiencing elevated levels of acute pain and these individuals may require greater quantities of opioids compared to non-cannabis users. There is also evidence suggesting that chronic, high-dose cannabis users may be at increased risk of perioperative cardiovascular complications.