Medical Cannabis for Neurogenic Pain

What is Neurogenic Pain?

Neurogenic pain occurs when the nervous system malfunctions or sustains damage, leading to pain signals being sent to the brain even without typical triggers, such as injury or inflammation.

Many patients describe neurogenic pain as:

• Burning
• Stabbing
• Tingling
• Electric-shock sensations

It often feels different from normal pain and can be persistent or unpredictable, making it especially difficult to live with.

Types of Neurogenic Pain

1. Neuropathic causes (nerve damage or disease)

• Diabetic neuropathy – nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar.
• Postherpetic neuralgia – ongoing nerve pain after shingles.
• Trigeminal neuralgia – sudden, severe facial pain from irritated nerves.
• Sciatica – nerve compression in the lower back causing pain down the leg.

2. Central causes (brain or spinal cord injury/disease)

• Spinal cord injury pain – nerve pathway damage within the spine.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS) pain – caused by nerve fibre damage in the central nervous system.
• Post-stroke pain – pain caused by brain injury following a stroke.

3. Other neurogenic origins

• Phantom limb pain – pain sensations felt in an amputated limb.
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) – intense, long-lasting pain from abnormal nerve signalling after injury.

Neurogenic vs. Neuropathic Pain

• Neurogenic pain – umbrella term for all pain that originates in the nervous system.
• Neuropathic pain – a subset of neurogenic pain, specifically caused by damaged or diseased nerves.

Difference Between Neurogenic (Neurological) and Neuropathic Pain

Treatment Options for Neurogenic Pain

Neurogenic pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining several treatments for best results. Options may include:

• Medication – such as anti-neuropathic drugs, antidepressants, or muscle relaxants.
• Physical therapy – to improve mobility, strength, and quality of life.
• Psychological support – chronic pain often affects mood and mental health.
• Medical cannabis – which may help some patients by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, potentially reducing abnormal pain signals and improving sleep.

How Medcann Pharmacy Can Help

At Medcann Pharmacy, we specialise in supporting patients with neurogenic pain conditions. Our service includes:

• Expert advice on medical cannabis as part of a personalised treatment plan.
• Safe and legal access to prescribed cannabis-based medicines.
• Collaboration with your specialist doctor to ensure the right treatment for your needs.
• Ongoing support and monitoring from our pharmacy team.

FAQ

1. Is medical cannabis effective for neurogenic pain?
Studies and patient reports suggest medical cannabis can reduce pain intensity, improve sleep, and enhance quality of life for some patients, particularly when other treatments haven’t worked.

2. Can I get medical cannabis for neurogenic pain on the NHS?
Currently, NHS access is very limited. Most patients in the UK access medical cannabis through private specialist prescriptions.

3. Is medical cannabis safe?
Yes, when prescribed by a qualified doctor and dispensed by a regulated pharmacy. Side effects are possible, but your treatment will be closely monitored.

4. Who qualifies for a prescription?
Patients with long-term neurogenic pain may qualify if conventional treatments have failed or caused side effects. A specialist doctor will assess your eligibility.

5. What forms of medical cannabis are available?
In the UK, doctors may prescribe:

• Cannabis flower (for vaporisation, not smoking)
• Cannabis oils (oral drops or capsules)

6. How does Medcann Pharmacy support patients?
We provide tailored guidance, safe access to prescribed products, and ongoing care to help you manage your condition with confidence.

 Contact us today to speak with our pharmacy team and take the first step towards managing your pain.