The clinical effectiveness and safety of cannabis oil in patients attending a medical cannabis clinic at a tertiary hospital in Ubon Ratchathani

Abstract

This quasi-experimental, pre- and post-intervention study aimed to study the clinical efficacy and safety of cannabis oil in patients attending a medical cannabis clinic at a tertiary hospital in Ubon Ratchathani Province.A total of 40 subjects were included. Data were collected between May 1, 2024, and April 30, 2025. The study instrument included the EQ-5D-5L assessment form, the Direct Health Score Assessment (VAS), the Discomfort Symptoms Assessment Form (ESAS), the Thai Sleep Quality Assessment Form (T-PSQI), and the Medical Marijuana Data Record Form (C-MOPH). Data were recorded before using cannabis oil (first admission) and followed up on days 30 after using cannabis oil. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test, with statistical significance set at the .05 level. The research results found that the sample group consisted of 55% end-stage cancer patients and 45% cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. The majority were female (72.50%) with an average age of 61.88±10.27 years. They received services with chronic pain, anorexia, and insomnia. After using medical cannabis oil for approximately 30 days, patients had a statistically significant increase in quality of life in five health dimensions (p < 0.05). Symptoms of discomfort, especially pain (p = 0.004) and loss of appetite (p < 0.001), were statistically significantly reduced. Common side effects include dry mouth and throat, so use medical cannabis oil appropriately under the supervision of a doctor or a licensed Thai traditional medicine practitioner. It is an alternative to improve the quality of life and reduce discomfort for patients, especially those with end-stage cancer patients who have chronic pain or loss of appetite, without any serious side effects.