The American College of Physicians (ACP) has released new guidelines regarding the use of cannabis in managing chronic noncancer pain. This guidance, published online on April 4, 2025, in the *Annals of Internal Medicine*, aims to help healthcare professionals counsel patients on the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis or cannabinoids.
The guidelines were developed by a team led by Dr. Devan Kansagara from the Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. They emphasize that when patients contemplate using cannabis or cannabinoids for pain relief, clinicians should discuss both the possible benefits and the harms of such treatment. The release of this guideline coincided with the ACP’s annual meeting held from April 3 to 5 in New Orleans.
According to the guideline, specific patient populations—such as young adults, adolescents, individuals with a history of substance use disorder, those with serious mental illness, and frail patients—should be warned that the risks of cannabis use for managing chronic pain may outweigh the benefits. Additionally, it is advised that pregnant or breastfeeding patients, as well as those trying to conceive, should avoid starting or continuing cannabis use. The guideline also discourages the use of inhaled cannabis for chronic noncancer pain management.
The authors of the guideline state that clinicians are in the best position to provide tailored, evidence-based information relevant to each patient’s unique needs and health conditions. This approach will enable patients to make well-informed decisions regarding their use of cannabis or cannabinoids for chronic pain relief.
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