Study Reveals High Cannabis Use Among Teens With Chronic Pain

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights a concerning trend regarding cannabis use among adolescents suffering from chronic pain. Conducted by Dr. Joe Kossowsky, an Assistant Professor of Anesthesia at Harvard Medical School, the research found that approximately one-quarter of teenagers visiting a specialized pain clinic reported using cannabis, primarily to manage symptoms related to their chronic conditions. The study examined data from 245 participants aged 14 to 19 years, revealing that 48 teens used cannabis specifically for pain management, while 14 reported recreational use.

The findings come at a time when cannabis potency, particularly the psychoactive component tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is on the rise, prompting experts to express concern over the potential for cannabis use disorder among vulnerable youth. Dr. Kossowsky emphasized that adolescents who utilize cannabis to alleviate pain often do so at a younger age and with greater frequency compared to their peers who use it recreationally. This early and frequent use exacerbates their risk of developing adverse effects, including worsening anxiety and depression.

Dr. Sharon Levy, Chief of the Division of Addiction Medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital, further elaborated on the developmental implications of adolescent cannabis use. She noted that the brain's pleasure-seeking areas are rapidly developing during this age, while the prefrontal cortex—responsible for decision-making—is still maturing. This imbalance increases the likelihood of substance use, which can lead to detrimental outcomes such as cognitive impairments and mental health disorders.

The study found that those using cannabis for symptom management experienced higher levels of pain interference and reported more significant functional disabilities. The age of first use ranged from 7 to 19 years, with a median age of 15.3 years. The teens commonly consumed cannabis through edibles (51.6%), vapes (45.2%), and joints (43.5%). Notably, participants perceived cannabis as a safe alternative due to its natural origins, contrasting with their non-using peers who recognized the associated risks.

Experts recommend that clinicians address the underlying pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances that lead adolescents to seek cannabis as a remedy. Dr. Kossowsky advocates for an integrative treatment approach combining cognitive behavioral therapy and physiotherapy, with pharmacological interventions like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for anxiety as necessary.

As this research marks the beginning of a broader investigation into adolescent cannabis use, Dr. Kossowsky plans to track the same cohort over the next five years to gather more comprehensive data. "This study is a first effort to shed light on a complex issue, and the findings have warranted further exploration," he stated.

The study was funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, with researchers declaring no conflicts of interest. As cannabis remains a contentious topic regarding adolescent health, this study underscores the need for increased awareness and proactive measures by healthcare providers to mitigate the risks associated with cannabis use among teenagers suffering from chronic pain.