Weed for Migraines: What the Latest Research Says

Millions experience severe head pain categorized as either a headache or migraine. In 2021, 4.3% of U.S. adults over 18 reported experiencing the painful condition in the past three months, with women (6.2%) experiencing it at almost triple the rate of men. 

Cannabis, known for its pain-relieving properties, has long been anecdotally reported to ease severe headaches and migraines, but what does the clinical research have to say about using weed for migraines?^1,2

What are Migraines?

Migraines are intense headaches typically accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and/or sound. Not to be confused with a standard headache, migraines are noted for their higher pain levels, including throbbing on the sides of the head. Symptoms can last several hours, while prolonged cases can last days or potentially longer. 

The specific cause of migraines continues to be examined. However, current research indicates that they may be the result of abnormal brain activity temporarily impacting nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels in the brain. Several factors, including stress, allergies, foods, hormonal changes, and numerous others, can bring on migraines. 

Depending on the frequency and severity, individuals suffering from migraines may have several relief options, including home remedies like hot showers or ice packs. Over-the-counter medications and medications prescribed by a medical professional may also provide relief. Other potential remedies may include lifestyle and dietary changes.

Benefits of Using Weed for Migraines

Research into whether using weed for migraine relief remains ongoing. However, certain studies suggest that cannabis may be helpful, joining a long history of positive self-reports. Both anecdotal and clinical research claim cannabis may provide relief for various migraine symptoms, often within a few hours of consumption.^1,2

Many of the cannabis plants' hundreds of compounds may play a part in providing migraine relief. Most notable are the two most prevalent cannabinoids, THC and CBD. These two crucial compounds interact with the body's system of receptors known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). 

The ECS is crucial in supporting several bodily functions, including pain regulation. Ongoing research into many of the plant's compounds has found that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD can mitigate migraine symptoms in numerous ways, including reducing inflammation and modulating neurotransmitters released.³

Weed and Migraines: Are There Any Risks?

Cannabis typically presents a low-risk profile to most consumers, including those seeking migraine relief.¹ Still, it is important to understand the risks that could potentially arise. 

The primary concern in most cases is potential medication interactions. Mixing cannabis with medications and supplements could result in adverse effects, including:³ 

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes 
• Nausea
• Psychosis on rarer occasions

Like other medications, cannabis can also be overused, which, for some, can trigger a severe headache. This condition is known as medication overuse headaches (MOH) and can worsen existing migraine symptoms.⁴ To avoid this, patients should be aware of their ideal dosage. 

Weed as a Treatment for Migraines

Both current research and anecdotal feedback provide a variety of responses to whether cannabis is effective for migraine sufferers. 

Some analyses suggest that using weed for migraine relief is an effective alternative to traditional medications and treatments. It may reduce symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

Other studies and self-reports feel otherwise, stating that cannabis provides little to no relief or can be detrimental in some instances, such as MOH.⁴

While its efficacy continues to be debated, numerous consumers use cannabis to manage their migraine pains and symptoms. Cannabis flower, edibles, vape carts, and sublingual products have all been noted to provide some consumers with potential relief. The variety of consumption methods offer patients varying onset times and effects windows to cater to each consumer's specific needs. 

Research has also shown that synthetic cannabinoids like dronabinol and nabilone can effectively manage some patients' migraine symptoms, especially those who have not responded well to first-line treatments.³ Others have claimed to find relief in products like CBD, which can deliver similar effects to THC without any intoxicating effects. 

Tips for Using Weed for Migraines

It's important to understand dosage before using weed for migraine relief. With conditions such as MOH possible, consumers don't want to overdo it and risk experiencing adverse effects. That's why the "start low, go slow" method is always recommended. 

This process has the consumer ingesting a low dose of cannabis and waiting a set period of time before deciding if another dose is required. The recommended starting dose and wait period will depend on the product consumed. For example, edible consumers may want to start with 2.5 mg and wait 30 to 90 minutes due to the delayed onset time. Smoke and vape consumers may want to take one or two small pulls and wait 15 minutes since their effects will be felt much quicker.⁵

The best tip for using cannabis for migraines is to start with a method you are most comfortable with and with the lowest dose possible. Then, note how it makes you feel and affects the migraine. It’s also important to understand that terpenes can be critical to the results. The best pot for migraines won't boil down to indica or sativa but rather the effects of a specific strain, consumption method, and other critical factors like terpenes and cannabinoid content. 

Consumers are always encouraged to speak with a medical professional to learn about this information and much more. 

Ask a Budtender: Which Weed Products are Best For Migraines?

Choosing the best cannabis products for migraine relief depends on several factors, including dosage, strain, and the desired onset time and length of effects. The process is highly individualized, with each patient responding differently. However, clinical analysis has provided some insights that may help patients choose the right products for them:

• Studies have suggested that sublinguals and inhaled options can treat acute migraine attacks due to their short half-life. 
• On the other hand, orally consumed products and their long half-life may be useful in preventative treatment. 

Researchers recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it to find the patient's ideal dosage and minimize the risk of overconsumption.⁴

References

1. Nicholas M, Erridge S, Bapir L, et al. UK medical cannabis registry: assessment of clinical outcomes in patients with headache disorders. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics. 2023;23(1):85-96. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/14737175.2023.2174017
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2. Stith SS, Diviant JP, Brockelman F, et al. Alleviative effects of Cannabis flower on migraine and headache. Journal of Integrative Medicine. 2020;18(5):416-424. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joim.2020.07.004
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3. Poudel S, Quinonez J, Choudhari J, et al. Medical Cannabis, Headaches, and Migraines: A Review of the Current Literature. Cureus. 2021;13(8):e17407. Published 2021 Aug 24. doi:10.7759/cureus.17407
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4. Sherpa ML, Shrestha N, Ojinna BT, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Medical Marijuana in Migraine Headache: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2022;14(12):e32622. Published 2022 Dec 17. doi:10.7759/cureus.32622 ↩︎
5. MacCallum CA, Russo EB. Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. European Journal of Internal Medicine. 2018;49(49):12-19. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.004
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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.