Cannabis for traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and stroke

Both strokes and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause brain damage, leading to health issues that include:

• Pain
• Difficulty with speech or movement
• Changes in mood or thought patterns

Researchers are exploring how medical cannabis might help people who have had a stroke or TBI. Some studies suggest that cannabis may help protect brain cells and help manage symptoms related to these conditions.

Research on cannabis for stroke/TBI

Some research shows that cannabinoids in cannabis can help protect brain cells and reduce brain swelling.

Cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabinoid in cannabis, may help reduce inflammation in various neurological disorders. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another cannabis cannabinoid, has been shown in mouse studies to protect the brain from further damage following injury. However, human studies are needed to confirm this effect.

One human study found that cannabis use was associated with lower symptom severity scores among people who had recently had a concussion. Another study found that recreational cannabis users had better brain injury outcomes compared to non-cannabis users.

Neuroimaging studies show that cannabis affects the same areas of the brain as many types of TBIs, and that cannabinoids may protect these areas from becoming more inflamed while possibly improving brain connectivity (how different parts of the brain communicate with one another).

Cannabis’s brain-protecting abilities are of interest to athletes as well, as many seek ways to improve their quality of life and reduce the long-term effects of repeated head impact. One small study found that cannabis use may reduce inflammation and impairment in soccer players after heading the ball.

The National Football League (NFL) has awarded $1 million to study the impact of CBD on pain management. At the same time, the National Hockey League (NFL) has funded research into the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids on concussion.

Using cannabis for stroke/TBI

If you’ve had a stroke or TBI, cannabis may help with symptoms like pain, muscle spasms, and trouble sleeping. Some researchers also believe that cannabis can protect the brain and improve recovery.

However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Cannabis can have side effects and might not be right for everyone. It’s important to speak with a doctor before trying cannabis for your condition.

Benefits

Some possible benefits of using cannabis after a stroke or TBI include:

• Pain relief: Cannabis may help reduce nerve pain (neuropathy) and headaches/migraines.
• Muscle relaxation: Cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, may help alleviate muscle spasms and stiffness.
• Sleep improvement: Cannabis could help those who have trouble sleeping.

These benefits are based on limited studies, and more research is needed.

Risks and side effects

Using cannabis can also have risks and side effects, such as:

• Dizziness: Some people may feel lightheaded after consuming cannabis.
• Memory problems: Cannabis can affect short-term memory.
• Mood changes: Cannabis might cause anxiety or mood swings, mainly when high doses of THC are used.
• Heart attack & stroke: Some evidence shows that daily cannabis use may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially when smoked.

When beginning cannabis treatment, start with a low dose and monitor how your body reacts.

Is it legal?

The legal status of cannabis varies by state. Some states allow cannabis for medical use, while others do not.

Stroke or TBI is not necessarily listed as a qualifying condition in most states, although some of its symptoms may be, for which you can qualify. Other disorders that may be related to TBI, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, or multiple sclerosis (MS), may also be a qualifying condition in your state.

Caregivers may be able to obtain medical cannabis for minors depending on state laws. In many states, having a medical cannabis card is required to use cannabis legally.

More about stroke/TBI

Common causes for stroke include a blockage in blood flow to the brain or a burst blood vessel in the brain. This can cause brain cells to die, resulting in issues with speech, movement, and cognitive function. Nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. have strokes each year.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden force, like a blow to the head, damages the brain. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries that cause long-term health issues. In 2021, there were over 69,000 TBI-related deaths in the U.S..

Both conditions can lead to symptoms like pain, difficulty moving, and changes in mood or behavior.

Other treatments for stroke/TBI

Treatment for stroke or TBI usually involves managing the symptoms and helping the brain recover.

Traditional therapies

There are several medications and therapies available for the treatment of stroke/TBI and its symptoms.

• Medications: To manage pain, prevent seizures, or reduce swelling
• Physical therapy: To improve movement and strength
• Occupational therapy: To help with daily activities
• Speech therapy: To assist with communication difficulties

Natural and alternative therapies

These therapies can complement traditional therapies to help manage symptoms.

• Acupuncture: May offer pain relief and aid recovery
• Mindfulness and meditation: May help with fatigue, mood, and stress
• Diet and supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants might support brain health

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for stroke/TBI

Cannabis may help manage some symptoms of stroke and TBI, but it is not a cure. If you are considering cannabis as part of your treatment, speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s right for you. In many states, you may need a medical cannabis card to access cannabis legally.

At Leafwell, our team of healthcare providers can help you obtain a medical card through telehealth and guide you toward developing a cannabis treatment plan that works for you.

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to common questions about cannabis for stroke or TBI.

Is marijuana good for a stroke victim?

While cannabis may help with some side effects of stroke, there isn’t enough research on its safety for people who have had strokes.

Can marijuana help with stroke recovery?

Some studies show that cannabinoids can protect brain cells and reduce inflammation, but more research is needed. Cannabis may also help with symptoms like pain, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and muscle spasms.

Does using marijuana increase the risk of stroke or heart attack?

Some research suggests that daily cannabis use increases the risk of stroke, especially if you’re smoking cannabis.

Is cannabis safe to use after a traumatic brain injury?

Yes. For many people, cannabis can be relatively safe to use after a TBI. Cannabis may help with some symptoms like anxiety, depression, and pain.

Can marijuana help with a concussion?

Cannabis may ease certain concussion symptoms, like anxiety, depression, insomnia, and headache. It may also boost brain cell production. However, more research is needed to understand the role of cannabis in brain health.

Does CBD help concussion?

CBD may relieve some symptoms of a concussion, including headache, anxiety, insomnia, and depression. You might prefer CBD over marijuana if you’re avoiding cannabis’s intoxicating effects.

Are there any cannabis-based medications for stroke or TBI?

There are no FDA-approved cannabis medications specifically for stroke or TBI. However, some cannabis-based medicines, like Epidiolex, are approved for neurological conditions like epilepsy.

Can you take CBD if you had a stroke?

There is some evidence that cannabidiol (CBD) has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties that can relieve symptoms of stroke or TBI. However, most studies are on animals, not people, and there is little evidence that hemp-based CBD oil can help with TBI or stroke.

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