Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes a group of chronic conditions characterised by inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The most commonly presenting inflammatory bowel diseases are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, however collagenous colitis and lymphatic colitis are categorized as forms of IBD.

Ulcerative colitis is a progressive condition that presents inflammation and sores in the lining of the colon and rectum. In contrast, Crohn’s disease cause inflammation of the entire lower GI tract and penetrate deep into tissues, leading to the need for resection. Although the specific “cause” of these conditions is still unclear, inflammation is generally believed to be an autoimmune response. New research has suggested that gut bacteria influence autoimmune response.

The symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease vary significantly in their frequency of presentation and their severity. Patients suffering from IBD might experience diarrhoea, Fever and fatigue, Abdominal pain and cramping, bloody stool, reduced appetite, and Unintended weight loss. In addition to the symptoms listed, many patients experience a number of side effects, which may also be reduced by medical cannabis.

The link between cannabis and the management of the symptoms of IBD couldbe found in the expression of cannabinoid receptions in the enteric nervous system. Patients use cannabis to manage pain and inflammation associated with the GI swelling that occurs when symptoms flare up. Placebo-controlled research has demonstrated evidence for the use of cannabis is via the inhaled route of administration as it provides patients with the most rapid onset for the management of acute symptoms.

It is important to note that the administration of orally ingested cannabis has not been investigated in a controlled study. However, the route of administration is directly to the GI tract when ingested, and for some patients, it may provide a longer duration of symptom relief