Cannabis: A Promising New Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome

What is Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is defined by the International Headache Society as an “intraoral burning or dysaesthetic sensation, recurring daily for more than 2 hours per day over more than 3 months.” Affecting areas such as the roof of the mouth, tongue, lips, and the sides of cheeks, BMS presents without any visible signs.

Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome

Symptoms include a dry mouth sensation, tingling, or altered taste/smell. It predominantly affects women and remains a relatively rare and poorly understood condition. To date, there has been no proven effective treatment for BMS.

New Research on Burning Mouth Syndrome

A new study published in the journal Pain Medicine, highlights the potential of cannabis-based medicines to provide relief for those suffering from BMS. Conducted by Italian researchers, this study is groundbreaking as it is the first to analyse the role of cannabinoids in managing unresponsive BMS.

Study Details and Results

The study involved 17 patients diagnosed with BMS who were treated with a full-spectrum cannabis extract over four weeks. Each patient received one gram of the extract, diluted in olive oil, daily. Researchers used four clinical measurements to assess pain intensity: the visual analogue scale, Present Pain Intensity scale, McGill Pain Questionnaire, and Oral Health Impact Profiles.

Initial results were promising. The cannabis oil not only provided pain relief but was also well-tolerated by all patients, with no reported adverse effects causing anyone to discontinue treatment. Additionally, levels of anxiety and depression, often associated with BMS, showed significant improvement.

Cannabis as a Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome

The findings suggest that full-spectrum Cannabis sativa oil could be an effective and safe treatment for BMS. While these results are encouraging, the researchers emphasised the need for larger, more rigorously controlled trials to confirm these initial findings and to explore different therapeutic approaches or placebo controls.

Medical Cannabis and Its Benefits

Medical cannabis, particularly full-spectrum cannabis extracts, contain various cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, which have shown potential in pain management. The entourage effect, where different cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically, is believed to enhance therapeutic outcomes. In the context of BMS, cannabinoids may interact with the endocannabinoid system to modulate pain perception and reduce inflammation.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Success Stories

This study provides a glimmer of hope for BMS patients, who have long struggled with the lack of effective treatments. The success stories from this research could inspire more comprehensive studies, potentially leading to a reliable solution for symptom relief and an improved quality of life for those affected by BMS.

What is the Cause of Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Despite extensive research, the exact cause of BMS remains unknown. Various factors, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, and psychological conditions, have been suggested as potential triggers. This new line of research into cannabinoid therapy could offer fresh insights into the underlying mechanisms of BMS and pave the way for more targeted treatments.

Over the Counter Treatment for Burning Mouth Syndrome

Currently, over-the-counter treatments for BMS offer limited relief. Patients often resort to topical anaesthetics, mouth rinses, or other palliative measures with varying degrees of success. The introduction of a cannabis-based treatment could revolutionise the management of BMS, providing a more effective and enduring solution.

So, is medical cannabis a viable option for Burning Mouth Syndrome?

While the journey to fully understanding and effectively treating Burning Mouth Syndrome is still ongoing, the recent study on cannabis oil provides a significant breakthrough. As more research unfolds, BMS patients can remain hopeful that a reliable and safe treatment option is on the horizon.

Why choose Cantourage Clinic as your UK medical cannabis clinic

At Cantourage Clinic, we understand the challenges faced by individuals living with Burning Mouth Syndrome. Our expert Pain Specialist is dedicated to providing personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, including the use of medical cannabis for symptom management. Contact Cantourage Clinic today to learn more about how cannabis can help you live a fuller, more comfortable life with BMS. Considering medical cannabis but unsure if you would be eligible? Take our FREE eligibility checker for a personalised assessment.

References

Notaro, V., et al. (2023). "Evaluating the Suitability and Potential Efficiency of Cannabis sativa Oil for Patients with Primary Burning Mouth Syndrome: A Prospective, Open-Label, Single-Arm Pilot Study " (https://academic.oup.com/painmedicine/article/22/1/142/5943271)

Hlozek, T., Uttl, L., Kaderabek, L., Balikova, M., Lhotkova, E., Horsley, R. R., ... & Novakova, P. (2017). Recent advances in the understanding of the aetiology and therapeutic strategies in burning mouth syndrome: Focus on the actions of cannabinoids. European Journal of Neuroscience, 50(3), 1913-1926. (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ejn.14712)

Russo, E. (2011). "Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects." (https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x).

McCarthy, M. W., & Kashuba, A. D. M. (2004). Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Issues in the Treatment of Bacterial Infectious Diseases. The Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 38(4), 720-725. (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1345/aph.1E471)

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