Cannabis, Marijuana, Pot, or Weed

While there is still much to be learned, Dr. Friedman says it has been shown that cannabinoids can reduce inflammation and can help resolve the effects of previous inflammation. “So, it's not just about stopping inflammation, but actually resolving it and dampening it down to then allow for proper healing,” says Dr. Friedman. They have even been shown to affect the production of interleukin 17 (IL-17), IL-23, and TNF alpha, all of which are important to the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

“The cannabinoids have the potential to hit multiple different facets of inflammation and induce repair, which will benefit not just psoriasis, but any inflammatory disease, making it a very exciting area for discovery to go after many different disease states, even beyond dermatology,” says Dr. Friedman.

Dr. Hawkes explains that the medical use of cannabis products, or products that contain cannabinoids, is generally considered to be safe, but there are several factors that can affect potential safety of use, including the dose, method of delivery, duration of use, and the specific ingredients.

“The potential benefits of cannabis use for inflammation, itching, anxiety/depression, pain, and insomnia, for example, will be of significant interest to health care providers and patients. Conversely, we are aware of problems with overuse or the abuse of cannabis products such as worsening of anxiety/depression/paranoia, obesity, weight gain/metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease,” says Dr. Hawkes. He adds that because people with psoriatic disease are already at higher risk of these conditions, or comorbidities, this should be taken into account when considering use of cannabis products.

There are additional safety aspects to take note of when utilizing cannabis products, including the non-cannabis ingredients. Dr. Friedman says that there have been reports of allergic reactions to topical cannabis products, likely because of additives in the formulation. This is particularly important for products sold outside of dispensaries, as they are subject to fewer regulations.

The delivery method of cannabis products is also something to keep in mind, as it can significantly affect the amount of cannabinoid absorbed by the body. “For example, as much as 35% of a cannabis-based product may be absorbed when ingested via an edible compared to less than 10% of a product delivered topically,” says Dr. Hawkes. He explains that delivery methods include smoking, vaping (smokeless inhalation), capsules, edibles (food or drink-based products), tinctures (sublingual absorption), and topicals.

Both Drs. Friedman and Hawkes want individuals to discuss potential use of cannabis products with their doctor. Some products may be more appropriate or beneficial for certain symptoms than others. There is also a possibility that cannabis products can interact with other medications you may be taking. “Cannabis products may also amplify the side effects of other concurrent oral medications, such as drowsiness, increased heart rate, or elevated blood pressure,” says Dr. Hawkes.

“As we begin to tease out the specific biologic properties of cannabis strains and their ingredients as well as their potential therapeutic use for specific symptoms,” says Dr. Hawkes, “we are approaching a consumer landscape that could allow for a highly personalized, customizable shopping experience based on an individual’s symptoms or medical conditions.”

Whether you are looking for relief for your psoriatic disease or want to ensure that recreational use won’t cause a flare, your access to cannabis products, as well as research on their safety and efficacy, is only going to increase going forward. Before you try a cannabis product, be sure to review your state laws and discuss any plans with your doctor.