Cannabis-derived treatments have a wide range of potential applications, with new uses being explored in ongoing clinical trials.

Proven benefits

A recent landmark phase III placebo-controlled trial found that CBD significantly reduced seizures in children with epilepsy.

A recent authoritative review by the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine found strong evidence supporting the use of cannabinoids for:

• Chronic pain
• Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy
• Muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis

The review also found moderate evidence for their use in improving sleep in people with conditions like chronic pain. 

Further applications

Emerging, though more limited, evidence suggests cannabinoids may also be beneficial in treating:

• PTSD
• Appetite and weight loss in HIV/AIDS
• Tourette syndrome
• Social anxiety
• Traumatic brain injury and brain haemorrhage