Post Herpetic Neuralgia: Cannabis

Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a chronic pain condition that can occur after a bout of shingles (herpes zoster). It affects the nerve fibers and skin, causing burning pain that lasts long after the rash and blisters of shingles have cleared. PHN is one of the most debilitating forms of nerve pain, and it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While traditional treatments such as pain relievers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants are commonly used, many patients continue to experience persistent pain.

Medical cannabis is increasingly being explored as a potential treatment for chronic pain conditions like PHN. Cannabis contains compounds known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate pain, inflammation, and other physiological functions. In states like Oklahoma, patients with conditions like PHN may qualify for medical cannabis through the state’s medical marijuana program. This article explores how cannabis may help manage the symptoms of PHN, the science supporting its use, and how to access medical cannabis.

What is Post Herpetic Neuralgia?

Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a complication of shingles, a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the body for years. In some people, the virus reactivates later in life as shingles, causing a painful rash. Even after the rash heals, some patients experience long-lasting nerve pain, known as PHN.

Common symptoms of Post Herpetic Neuralgia include:

• Chronic burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the area where the shingles rash appeared
• Heightened sensitivity to touch (even simple things like clothing can cause pain)
• Numbness, tingling, or itching in the affected area
• Difficulty sleeping due to pain

PHN is caused by nerve damage from the shingles infection, which can alter how nerve signals are sent to the brain. While traditional treatments can help some patients, others continue to experience severe pain, leading them to explore alternative therapies such as medical cannabis.

How Cannabis Can Help Manage PHN Symptoms

Medical cannabis contains cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation, and other functions. For patients with PHN, cannabis may help manage symptoms in several ways:

Chronic Pain Relief

Chronic nerve pain is the hallmark symptom of PHN, and it can be difficult to manage with traditional pain medications. Cannabis, particularly strains high in THC and CBD, has been shown to reduce pain by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. A 2018 study published in Current Neuropharmacology found that cannabinoids can modulate pain signals and reduce the perception of pain in patients with chronic neuropathic pain conditions.

For individuals with PHN, cannabis may help decrease the intensity of pain and improve overall comfort, offering a more natural alternative to opioids and other prescription painkillers.

Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation plays a role in the nerve damage associated with PHN. Cannabis, particularly CBD, has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing inflammation in the affected nerves and surrounding tissues, cannabis may help alleviate pain and discomfort for PHN patients. A review published in Journal of Pain Research in 2019 highlighted the potential of cannabinoids to reduce inflammation and provide long-term relief for patients with inflammatory and neuropathic pain conditions.

Improving Sleep

Many patients with PHN find it difficult to sleep due to the constant pain and discomfort. Cannabis, particularly strains high in THC, has been shown to improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing pain. A 2019 study published in Sleep Medicine Reviews found that cannabis can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve sleep in patients with chronic pain disorders.

By improving sleep quality, cannabis may help PHN patients feel more rested and better able to cope with their condition.

Neuropathic Pain Modulation

PHN is classified as a neuropathic pain condition, which means that the pain originates from nerve damage. Cannabinoids, particularly THC, have been shown to modulate neuropathic pain by affecting how nerve signals are transmitted to the brain. A 2020 study in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that cannabinoids can reduce the severity of neuropathic pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system and modulating pain pathways.

This is particularly relevant for PHN patients, as traditional pain relievers are often less effective for neuropathic pain compared to other types of pain.

Scientific Research on Cannabis and Neuropathic Pain

While research specifically focused on PHN and cannabis is limited, several studies have explored the potential of cannabis to manage neuropathic pain in general:

• A 2018 systematic review published in Journal of Pain found that cannabis-based medicines can significantly reduce chronic neuropathic pain in adults.
• A 2019 study in Journal of Clinical Medicine showed that both THC and CBD can reduce the severity of neuropathic pain in patients who are resistant to other treatments.
• A 2020 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlighted the role of cannabinoids in modulating pain signals and reducing inflammation in patients with chronic pain conditions, including neuropathic pain.

These studies suggest that cannabis may be a valuable tool in managing the chronic pain associated with PHN, particularly when other treatments have failed.

How to Access Medical Cannabis for PHN

If you are experiencing Post Herpetic Neuralgia and are interested in trying medical cannabis as a treatment option, you may be able to qualify for a medical marijuana card in states like Oklahoma. Oklahoma’s medical marijuana program allows patients with a wide range of conditions to access cannabis legally.

Steps to Get a Medical Marijuana Card

1. Complete an online application: Start by visiting a telemedicine clinic like Oklahoma Cannabis Card and filling out an online form with your medical history and symptoms.
2. Consult with a certified cannabis doctor: You’ll have a virtual consultation with a licensed doctor in Oklahoma, who will assess whether medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment for your PHN.
3. Receive your certification: If approved, you’ll receive a recommendation for medical cannabis, which allows you to apply for a medical marijuana card through Oklahoma’s Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA).
4. Submit your application to OMMA: After receiving your doctor’s recommendation, you’ll submit your application to OMMA. Once approved, you’ll receive your medical marijuana card, typically within 14-30 days.

Oklahoma residents can apply for a medical marijuana card through Oklahoma Cannabis Card for $129. Renewals are required every two years and cost $99.

Legal Considerations for Medical Cannabis

In Oklahoma, patients with a valid medical marijuana card can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries across the state. There are over 2,000 dispensaries, offering a wide variety of products, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and flower.

It’s important to note that Oklahoma’s medical marijuana laws prohibit the use of cannabis in public places and while driving. Registered patients are allowed to grow up to six mature cannabis plants and six seedlings at home, provided they are not visible to the public.

Conclusion

Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) can cause severe and persistent pain, which can be difficult to manage with traditional treatments. Medical cannabis offers a promising alternative for patients who are seeking relief from chronic pain, inflammation, and sleep disturbances associated with PHN. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, cannabis may help reduce the severity of PHN symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

If you’re considering medical cannabis for your PHN symptoms, it’s important to consult with a certified cannabis doctor. They can guide you through the process and help determine the best approach for your symptoms. To begin your journey, visit Oklahoma Cannabis Card and apply for your medical marijuana card for $129.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I qualify for a medical marijuana card if I have Post Herpetic Neuralgia?

Oklahoma does not have a specific list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. The decision is left to the discretion of a certified cannabis doctor, who will evaluate whether your PHN symptoms can be managed with cannabis.

2. How long is the medical marijuana card valid in Oklahoma?

Medical marijuana cards in Oklahoma are valid for two years. You can renew your card through clinics like Oklahoma Cannabis Card for $99.

3. Can I grow my own cannabis in Oklahoma?

Yes, registered medical marijuana patients in Oklahoma are allowed to grow up to six mature cannabis plants and six seedlings at home, as long as they are not visible to the public.

4. How much does it cost to get a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma?

The standard fee for obtaining a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma is $129. Renewals cost $99 every two years.

5. Can I use cannabis in public places in Oklahoma?

No, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public places in Oklahoma. Patients should only use cannabis in private settings.