title: Cannabis and its derivatives: review of medical use.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Use of cannabis is often an under-reported activity in our society. Despite legal restriction, cannabis is often used to relieve chronic and neuropathic pain, and it carries psychotropic and physical adverse effects with a propensity for addiction. This article aims to update the current knowledge and evidence of using cannabis and its derivatives with a view to the sociolegal context and perspectives for future research.
  
  
  METHODS
  Cannabis use can be traced back to ancient cultures and still continues in our present society despite legal curtailment. The active ingredient, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, accounts for both the physical and psychotropic effects of cannabis. Though clinical trials demonstrate benefits in alleviating chronic and neuropathic pain, there is also significant potential physical and psychotropic side-effects of cannabis. Recent laboratory data highlight synergistic interactions between cannabinoid and opioid receptors, with potential reduction of drug-seeking behavior and opiate sparing effects. Legal rulings also have changed in certain American states, which may lead to wider use of cannabis among eligible persons.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Family physicians need to be cognizant of such changing landscapes with a practical knowledge on the pros and cons of medical marijuana, the legal implications of its use, and possible developments in the future.
authors: Department of Family Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston ON K7L 5E9, Canada. leungl@queensu.ca
authors: Lawrence
authors: L
authors: Leung
mesh_terms: D018712:Analgesics, Non-Narcotic / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002186:Cannabinoids / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002188:Cannabis / Q000009:adverse effects; D004357:Drug Synergism; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D002189:Marijuana Abuse; D008385:Marijuana Smoking / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D009437:Neuralgia / Q000188:drug therapy; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D018712:Analgesics, Non-Narcotic; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D002186:Cannabinoids; D013287:Illicit Drugs