Study Finds CBD Alters Brain Response to Acute Pain, Not Its Intensity

Researchers at Syracuse University in the United States have investigated whether cannabidiol (CBD) truly helps manage acute pain. The study found that CBD does not directly reduce the intensity of acute pain; instead, it changes how the brain responds to painful sensations. These findings were reported by New Atlas.

How the Study Was Conducted

The study involved 15 healthy volunteers, each of whom participated in four experimental sessions. In two of these sessions, the researchers manipulated the information given to participants: they told them they were receiving a placebo when they were actually given CBD, and vice versa. In the other two sessions, the information provided was accurate.

During each session, acute pain was simulated using heat exposure—a standard method in such experiments. The researchers monitored the participants’ nervous system responses and also took into account their subjective pain experiences.

Key Findings

• Pain indicators improved in two groups: those who received CBD and those who believed they were receiving CBD but actually got a placebo. This suggests a strong expectation effect.
• The results varied depending on which pain indicators were measured, highlighting the complex and multifaceted nature of pain.

The researchers concluded that more studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind pain relief and to determine which types of pain cannabis-based products may help alleviate.

Source

New Atlas