Individuals have been turning to cannabis to manage severe headaches and migraines when they find traditional prescription medications ineffective.

There is growing evidence suggesting that cannabis can be an alternative option to managing the symptoms of migraines and headaches. There are several types of headaches with different symptoms and severity.

Some of the more common forms of headaches are discussed below: Tension type headaches are the most common and are generally what most people experience. These headaches produce symptoms of a pressure band circling around the temples, forehead, and back of the head which can last hours to days. Tension type headaches are chronic if they occur at least 15 days out of the month for more than 6 months. For patients who experience chronic headaches, they may need to take daily medication to reduce the frequency.

Cluster headaches are the most painful type of headache. They present as excruciating pain usually on one side of the head and can also cause a blocked nose with watery eyes. This type of headache is much shorter in duration compared to other headaches, lasting between 20 minutes to 2 hours.

Migraines are generally more painful than tension type headaches but less painful than cluster headaches. They can cause light and smell sensitivity, throbbing pain of the head, face and neck, sinus congestion, dizziness and nausea. Some people also experience a visual aura before the onset of a migraine. The aura is a sensory disturbance that ranges from seeing sparks and zig zags to a tingling sensation on one side of the body or an inability to speak clearly. The aura can serve as a warning sign that a migraine may occur.

There are some interesting findings from the literature about cannabis and the treatment of headaches and migraines. These are:

• One study found participants reporting that inhaling cannabis is the most effective way to manage their headaches or migraines. Additionally, sublingual (under the tongue) administration was found to be the next best method for managing their headache or migraine.
• Common over-the-counter products like Advil and Tylenol for headache use may result in individuals experiencing more headaches if they are used too often. This phenomenon is known as “medication overuse headache”. Interestingly “medication overuse headache” is not seen with cannabis use.
• One study’s observational results showed that individuals who experienced the most severe headaches or migraines had the largest relief from cannabis compared to those that had mild headaches.

Make sure to connect with a knowledgeable pharmacist for a personalized headache or migraine assessment!

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Cannabis use may not be appropriate for you if have one or more of the following:

• A history or family history of psychosis in the family
• Currently taking a blood thinner such as Warfarin
• Reduced liver function
• History of addiction
• A complex medication regimen (cannabis can interfere with the metabolism of several classes of medications)
• Sedating medications such as benzodiazepines (such as lorazepam) and/or opioids (such as Percocet)

Make sure to talk to a knowledgeable healthcare professional to make sure cannabis is safe for you!

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Cannabis products come in a variety of different formulations such as oils, capsules, creams, dried flower, and concentrates. With an extensive number of products available on the market, it can be quite confusing to select a product that may work for you. Our pharmacists are trained to assess which cannabis products can be safe and effective for you. Reach out to a Pharmacist today for a consultation!

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