Title:The Effectiveness of Topical Cannabidiol Oil in Symptomatic Relief of Peripheral Neuropathy of the Lower Extremities
VOLUME: 21 ISSUE: 5
Author(s):Dixon H. Xu, Benjamin D. Cullen*, Meng Tang and Yujiang Fang
Affiliation:PGY-2, Department of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, Scripps Mercy Hospital, San Diego, CA 92103, Podiatric Surgery Section Chief, Scripps Mercy Hospital, 4077 Fifth Ave, MER35, San Diego, CA, 92103, Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Pathology, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA, 50312, Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Pathology, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA, 50312
Keywords:CBD, diabetic neuropathy, review, cannabis sativa, hemp, nerve pain.
Abstract:Background: Peripheral neuropathy can significantly impact the quality of life for those
who are affected, as therapies from the current treatment algorithm often fail to deliver adequate symptom
relief. There has, however, been an increasing body of evidence for the use of cannabinoids in the
treatment of chronic, noncancer pain. The efficacy of a topically delivered cannabidiol (CBD) oil in
the management of neuropathic pain was examined in this four-week, randomized and placebocontrolled
trial.
Methods: In total, 29 patients with symptomatic peripheral neuropathy were recruited and enrolled. 15
patients were randomized to the CBD group with the treatment product containing 250 mg CBD/3 fl.
oz, and 14 patients were randomized to the placebo group. After four weeks, the placebo group was
allowed to crossover into the treatment group. The Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS) was administered
biweekly to assess the mean change from baseline to the end of the treatment period.
Results: The study population included 62.1% males and 37.9% females with a mean age of 68 years.
There was a statistically significant reduction in intense pain, sharp pain, cold and itchy sensations in
the CBD group when compared to the placebo group. No adverse events were reported in this study.
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that the transdermal application of CBD oil can achieve significant
improvement in pain and other disturbing sensations in patients with peripheral neuropathy. The
treatment product was well tolerated and may provide a more effective alternative compared to other
current therapies in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy.
