An Update of Current Cannabis-Based Pharmaceuticals in Pain Medicine

Consumption of cannabis can be achieved through a variety of modalities, but the most traditional and common route of consumption is via smoke inhalation. When inhaled as a smoke, the components of cannabis are absorbed in the endothelial lining of the alveoli of the lungs and delivered to the central nervous system [8]. However, the amount of active compounds absorbed through smoke inhalation is highly dependent on the smoking dynamics of the individual user. Consequently, the ability to control or dose cannabinoid delivery via smoke inhalation is problematic [8]. As a result of the variable distribution and control of active components involved with smoking, pharmaceutical companies are investigating and prioritizing routes other than smoke inhalation for the therapeutic use of cannabinoids