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Cannabis, Chronic Pain, and Related Disorders

Kent Hutchison

This Cannabis, Chronic Pain, and Related Disorders course is designed to have you think critically about the health effects of cannabis (i.e., marijuana) in the context of chronic pain, opioid use disorder, obesity, sleep dysfunction and cancer. We'll learn about the epidemiology and etiology of these conditions, the harms/benefits of current treatments, and learn how to evaluate the literature on cannabis for these conditions. We will discuss special considerations for using cannabis for these conditions, such as dose, timing, side effects, and drug interactions. Lastly, we'll discuss how it is being used in the context of palliative care. Obtaining this knowledge will be helpful in terms of informing public policy, public health, and personal decisions regarding the use of cannabis products.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Chronic Pain and Cannabis
In this module, we will review the different types of chronic pain. We will also discuss the costs and epidemiology of pain, as well as the current treatments used to treat pain. Lastly, it will cover the research on the effects of cannabis on chronic pain.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides working knowledge of using cannabis as a therapy for chronic pain
In-depth analysis of the benefits and risks of cannabis use with chronic pain
Taught by an instructor who is recognized for their expertise in chronic pain management and cannabis
Covers newer and emerging research on the use of cannabis for chronic pain
Provides practical information that may be useful for personal decisions about cannabis use for chronic pain

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Reviews summary

Scientific look at cannabis and disorders

According to learners, this course offers a strong scientific foundation for understanding the role of cannabis in various health conditions. Students appreciated the comprehensive coverage of conditions like chronic pain, opioid use disorder, obesity, sleep issues, and cancer, as outlined in the logical module structure. Many found the discussion on practical considerations such as dose, timing, and drug interactions particularly valuable. However, there were mixed views on the depth, with some finding the material too basic or certain topics rushed, suggesting it's potentially best for those seeking a research-focused overview or with a relevant background. While the content is praised, a few reviewers noted the lecture delivery could be dry.
Best for those wanting a research focus.
"Ideal for those wanting a research-focused understanding rather than clinical application details."
"Seems designed for healthcare professionals or researchers evaluating evidence."
"Probably too academic for the average person seeking simple answers."
Depth varies; may be basic for some.
"Good introduction, but could be more in-depth on certain topics."
"As a professional, some parts felt a bit too basic for my background."
"Perfect depth for someone relatively new to the research, but not completely new."
"Felt a bit rushed through some of the more complex biological pathways."
Includes practical use details like dose.
"Appreciated the discussion on dose, timing, and side effects."
"The information on drug interactions was particularly useful for my practice."
"Found the section on practical use considerations very helpful."
Covers multiple relevant health conditions.
"Loved how the course covered pain, OUD, obesity, sleep, and cancer."
"The syllabus promised and delivered coverage across diverse conditions."
"Good overview of cannabis potential across different related disorders."
"Provides a comprehensive look at cannabis for various conditions."
Provides a solid research-based understanding.
"Provides a solid scientific foundation on the topic."
"I appreciated the focus on evaluating the literature and research studies."
"Gave me a much clearer, research-backed perspective..."
"Relies heavily on published research, which was a major plus."
Some reviewers found lectures dry.
"Some lectures felt a bit dry and monotonous."
"The instructor clearly knows the material, but the delivery wasn't very engaging."
"Felt like reading a paper aloud sometimes, wished for more dynamic presentation."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cannabis, Chronic Pain, and Related Disorders with these activities:
Gather and review course materials
Having all required course materials organized and easily accessible will support your learning.
Show steps
  • Collect syllabi, readings, and assignments.
  • Create a digital or physical filing system for the materials.
  • Review course materials to identify key concepts and sections.
Read up on how the endocannabinoid system works
Understanding the endocannabinoid system will give you a solid foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Endocannabinoid System
Show steps
  • Research the endocannabinoid system
  • Review articles and studies on the topic
Read Cannabis and Cannabinoids: Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Potential
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacology, toxicology, and therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabinoids, providing a solid foundation for the course content.
View Cannabis and Cannabinoids: Pharmacology,... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-3 to grasp the basics of cannabis and cannabinoid pharmacology.
  • Review chapters 4-6 to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabis in various conditions.
Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete Cannabis, Chronic Pain, and Related Disorders will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cannabis Consultant
A Cannabis Consultant researches and provides information on cannabis for the purposes of treating various conditions, including chronic pain, obesity, sleep dysfunction, and some forms of cancer. Upon completing this course, individuals will have the knowledge and skills to examine the harms and benefits of current treatments for these conditions, including cannabis, and help patients ask the right questions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cannabis Consultant
Product Development Scientist
Product Development Scientists are tasked with developing new and innovative cannabis products. Some of these products focus on treating certain conditions or symptoms, such as chronic pain or sleep dysfunction. The knowledge gained in this course on the effects of cannabis on these conditions can lead to a successful career as a Product Development Scientist in this growing field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Development Scientist
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Regulatory Affairs Specialists for cannabis companies help ensure that their products are safe and compliant with government regulations. They work to ensure that strict manufacturing, testing, and labeling standards are met, which can be especially important for individuals using cannabis to manage or treat medical conditions such as chronic pain or cancer. This course can help Regulatory Affairs Specialists stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis.
See salaries and explore the career path for Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Cannabis Educator
Cannabis Educators provide information and guidance on the use of cannabis for medical purposes. They may work with patients, healthcare professionals, or the general public. The knowledge gained in this course on the health effects of cannabis can help individuals become effective Cannabis Educators, especially for those with clients suffering from chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cannabis Educator
Pharmacist
Pharmacists may be involved in dispensing and providing information on cannabis for medical purposes. They can help ensure that patients are using cannabis safely and effectively, especially those using cannabis to treat chronic pain or other conditions. This course can help Pharmacists stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis to provide the best possible care to their patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist
Physician
Physicians may prescribe cannabis for medical purposes. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are prescribing it safely and effectively. This course can help Physicians stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, especially for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses may be involved in providing care to patients using cannabis for medical purposes. They can help ensure that patients are using cannabis safely and effectively, especially those using cannabis to manage chronic pain. This course can help Registered Nurses stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis to provide the best possible care to their patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse
Social Worker
Social Workers may work with patients using cannabis for medical purposes. They can help provide support and guidance to patients and their families. Social Workers with knowledge of the research on the health effects of cannabis can better assist patients, particularly those using cannabis to cope with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Therapist
Therapists may work with patients using cannabis for medical purposes. They can help provide support and guidance to patients and their families. Therapists with knowledge of the research on the health effects of cannabis can better assist patients, particularly those using cannabis to manage or treat chronic pain, sleep dysfunction, or other conditions discussed in the course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Therapist
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts may be involved in developing policies related to the medical use of cannabis. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are making informed recommendations. This course can help Health Policy Analysts stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, especially for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst
Journalist
Journalists may report on the medical use of cannabis. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are providing accurate information to the public. This course can help Journalists stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, particularly for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Lawyer
Lawyers may be involved in cases related to the medical use of cannabis. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are providing sound legal advice. This course can help Lawyers stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, especially for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer
Economist
Economists may be involved in studying the economic impact of the medical use of cannabis. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are conducting accurate research. This course can help Economists stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, especially for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Economist
Public Health Researcher
Public Health Researchers may be involved in studying the health effects of cannabis. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are conducting accurate research. This course can help Public Health Researchers stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, especially for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Researcher
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts may be involved in developing policies related to the medical use of cannabis. They need to be knowledgeable about the health effects of cannabis to ensure that they are making informed recommendations. This course can help Policy Analysts stay up-to-date on the latest research on the health effects of cannabis, particularly for patients with chronic pain.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cannabis, Chronic Pain, and Related Disorders.
Cover image
Jack Herer's the Emperor Wears No Clothes
Save
Provides a detailed history of cannabis, and argues that the war on drugs is based on a lie. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of cannabis and the politics surrounding it.
By Jack Herer - The Emperor Wears No Clothes (11th)...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Bop Apocalypse
Save
Provides a comprehensive history of cannabis, from its origins in Central Asia to its current use around the world. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of cannabis and its impact on human culture.
Bop Apocalypse: Jazz, Race, the Beats, and Drugs
Hardcover
$$
Bop Apocalypse: Jazz, Race, the Beats, and Drugs
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Cannabis Pharmacy
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to using cannabis for medical purposes. It includes information on the different types of cannabis, the different ways to use it, and the different conditions that it can be used to treat.
Cannabis Pharmacy: The Practical Guide to Medical...
Paperback
$$
Cannabis Pharmacy: The Practical Guide to Medical...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Marijuana Horticulture
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to growing cannabis. It includes information on all aspects of cannabis cultivation, from seed selection to harvest.
Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical...
Paperback
$$
Indoor Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor Bible
Paperback
$$$
Marijuana Horticulture_Russian Language (Russian...
Paperback
$$
Marijuana Horticulture_Russian Language (Russian...
Paperback
$$$
Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Cannabis
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution and ethnobotany of cannabis. It includes information on the different types of cannabis, the different ways to use it, and the different cultures that have used it.
Cannabis: Evolution and Ethnobotany
Paperback
$$
Cannabis: Evolution and Ethnobotany
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Cannabis Grower's Handbook
Save
Provides a beginner's guide to growing, using, and enjoying cannabis. It includes information on all aspects of cannabis, from seed selection to harvest.
Cannabis Grower's Handbook: The Complete Guide to...
Paperback
$$
Cannabis Grower's Handbook: The Complete Guide to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Cannabis Manifesto
Save
Provides a concise overview of cannabis. It includes information on the different types of cannabis, the different ways to use it, and the different laws surrounding it.
The Cannabis Manifesto: A New Paradigm for Wellness
Paperback
$$
The Cannabis Manifesto: A New Paradigm for Wellness
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Official High Times Field Guide to Marijuana...
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to cannabis. It includes information on all aspects of cannabis, from seed selection to harvest.
The Official High Times Field Guide to Marijuana...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Cannabis Encyclopedia
Save
Provides a comprehensive encyclopedia of cannabis. It includes information on all aspects of cannabis, from seed selection to harvest.
The Cannabis Encyclopedia
Paperback
Check
The Cannabis Encyclopedia
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 4-5 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Kent Hutchison
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
This course belongs to a collection called Medical Cannabis: The Health Effects of THC and CBD. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. History of Medical Cannabis
  2. Cannabis, Chronic Pain, and Related Disorders (viewing)
  3. Cannabis, Mental Health, and Brain Disorders
  4. Healthy Aging and the Future of Cannabis Research
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides working knowledge of using cannabis as a therapy for chronic pain
In-depth analysis of the benefits and risks of cannabis use with chronic pain
Taught by an instructor who is recognized for their expertise in chronic pain management and cannabis
Covers newer and emerging research on the use of cannabis for chronic pain
Provides practical information that may be useful for personal decisions about cannabis use for chronic pain
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