Glaucoma

Cannabis has been explored as a potential treatment for glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss. Cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have been shown to lower IOP by relaxing the trabecular meshwork, improving aqueous humor outflow, and reducing production of intraocular fluid (Hepler & Frank, 1971). This effect can provide temporary relief, which may benefit patients resistant to traditional medications.

Research indicates that THC not only reduces IOP but may also possess neuroprotective properties, potentially safeguarding retinal cells from degeneration (Chen et al., 2005). Additionally, cannabis can alleviate symptoms associated with glaucoma, such as eye pain and headaches, improving patients' overall quality of life (Tomida et al., 2006).

However, the therapeutic use of cannabis for glaucoma is limited by its short duration of action, typically lasting only 3–4 hours, requiring frequent dosing that can lead to systemic side effects like dizziness or cognitive impairment. While promising, cannabis is not yet a first-line treatment for glaucoma, and ongoing studies are needed to explore long-term safety and efficacy.

References

1. Chen, J., Matias, I., Dinh, T., et al. (2005). Neuroprotection by cannabinoids against retinal neurodegeneration. The Journal of Neuroscience, 25(5), 1166-1172.
2. Hepler, R. S., & Frank, I. M. (1971). Marijuana smoking and intraocular pressure. JAMA, 217(10), 1392.
3. Novack, G. D. (2016). Cannabinoids for treatment of glaucoma. Current Opinion in Ophthalmology, 27(2), 146-150.
4. Tomida, I., Pertwee, R. G., & Azuara-Blanco, A. (2006). Cannabinoids and glaucoma. British Journal of Ophthalmology, 90(7), 839-843.
5. Wang, J., Lu, Y., & Feng, Y. (2020). Cannabinoid therapy in glaucoma management: an update. Neuropharmacology, 175, 108174.