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Study register · detail Prospektive Beobachtungsstudie · Geriatric Patients · 2018

Epidemiological characteristics, safety and efficacy of medical cannabis in the elderly

Abuhasira et al. ·European Journal of Internal Medicine Impact 3.3
Clear benefit GRADE Low 189 citations
Samplen = 2.736 Pat.
Duration6 months
EndpointNRS
Blindingn.a.
DesignProspektive Beobachtungsstudie
Cannabinoidvollspektrum
Key finding

Medical cannabis reduced pain and improved general condition in the majority of older patients with an acceptable side effect profile.

Summary

Prospective cohort ≥65 years (n=2.736, age 74,5±7,5 years), medical cannabis over 6 months; pain reduction from median 8/10 to 4/10, 93,7% reported improvement. Most common side effects: dizziness (9,7%), dry mouth (7,1%). 18,1% reduced or stopped opioids.

P
PopulationOlder adults ≥65 years with medical cannabis therapy (mainly pain and cancer), n=2736, mean age 74,5 years
I
InterventionMedical cannabis (various forms, dosages not specified), via specialized cannabis clinic
O
OutcomePain reduction from median 8 to median 4 (NRS 0-10) after 6 months; 93,7% reported improvement in their condition; 18,1% reduced or stopped opioids
Confidence in the evidence
Low

The second of four GRADE levels, the effect estimate is of limited reliability.

Quality profile
Sample size ★★★★★
Blinding —
Effect size Clear benefit
Citations / year ★★★★★
Authors
Abuhasira R, Schleider L B, Mechoulam R et al.
DOI 10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.019↗
Design: Prospektive Beobachtungsstudie
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Indication
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