Cannabis for migraine treatment: the once and future prescription? An historical and scientific review

Pain. 1998 May;76(1-2):3-8. doi: 10.1016/s0304-3959(98)00033-5.

Abstract

Cannabis, or Marijuana, has been used for centuries for both symptomatic and prophylactic treatment of migraine. It was highly esteemed as a headache remedy by the most prominent physicians of the age between 1874 and 1942, remaining part of the Western pharmacopoeia for this indication even into the mid-twentieth century. Current ethnobotanical and anecdotal references continue to refer to its efficacy for this malady, while biochemical studies of THC and anandamide have provided a scientific basis for such treatment. The author believes that controlled clinical trials of Cannabis in acute migraine treatment are warranted.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cannabis / therapeutic use*
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, Ancient
  • History, Medieval
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Migraine Disorders / history*
  • Phytotherapy*