Can cannabis treat glaucoma Health ConditionsHealth ConditionsAlzheimer's & DementiaAnxietyArthritisAsthma & AllergiesBreast CancerCancerCardiovascular HealthCOVID-19Dermatology & SkincareDiabetesEnvironment & SustainabilityExercise & FitnessEye HealthHeadache & MigraineHealth EquityHIV & AIDSHuman BiologyInflammatory Bowel DiseaseLeukemiaLGBTQIA+Men's HealthMental HealthMultiple Sclerosis (MS)NutritionParkinson's DiseasePsoriasisSexual HealthWomen's HealthDiscoverNewsLatest NewsOriginal SeriesMedical MythsHonest NutritionThrough My EyesNew Normal HealthPodcastsHow to understand chronic painWhat is behind vaccine hesitancy?The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cureNew directions in dementia researchCan psychedelics rewire a depressed, anxious brain?Why climate change matters for human healthToolsGeneral HealthDrugs A-ZHealth HubsHealth ToolsBMI Calculators and ChartsBlood Pressure Chart: Ranges and GuideBreast Cancer: Self-Examination GuideSleep CalculatorHealth ProductsAffordable Therapy OptionsBlood Pressure MonitorsDiabetic SuppliesFitness TrackersHome GymsGreen Cleaning ProductsHow to Shop for CBDQuizzesRA Myths vs FactsType 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood SugarAnkylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or FictionConnectAbout Medical News TodayWho We AreOur Editorial ProcessContent IntegrityConscious LanguageNewslettersSign UpFollow UsMedical News TodayHealth ConditionsDiscoverToolsConnectSubscribe Can cannabis help treat symptoms of glaucoma Medically reviewed by Eloise Theisen, RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC — By Zawn Villines on May 30, 2022Some research suggests that cannabis may improve symptoms of glaucoma, primarily by reducing pressure in the eye, which experts call intraocular pressure (IOP). However, the data on using cannabis for glaucoma are not unequivocal. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) claims that cannabis is not a practical treatment for glaucoma. A 2019 review highlights some promising research indicating that cannabis may ease symptoms of glaucoma. However, many of the studies had a poor design, with a small sample size or inadequate controls. Hence, the review authors note that more research is necessary before experts can draw any conclusions about cannabis for glaucoma. Some doctors recommend cannabis for glaucoma, and a minority of people with the condition take it and believe that it helps. Some cannabis dispensaries also routinely dispense cannabis for glaucoma in states where it is a qualifying condition. Without more research, one cannot conclude that cannabis can treat glaucoma. There is no conclusive scientific evidence that it is superior to standard treatments. However, some people with glaucoma say that cannabis helped them when other treatments did not. Read on to learn more about cannabis and glaucoma, including the main benefits and potential risks. Can cannabis treat glaucoma Share on PinterestVISUALSPECTRUM/StocksyGlaucoma is a group of conditions that cause increased IOP, which damages the optic nerve. Over time, this can weaken vision and potentially lead to blindness. Glaucoma is the leading cause of vision loss among people over the age of 60 years. Reducing IOP is the most important tactic for decreasing the risk of glaucoma. Lowering IOP can also help ease glaucoma symptoms. Traditional glaucoma treatments aim to decrease IOP. Proponents of medical cannabis believe that it, too, may cause IOP reduction. Animal studies suggest that cannabis might promote blood flow to the eye or offer neuroprotective effects that prevent nerve damage and reduce the effects of glaucoma. Some studies support the idea that cannabis might play a role in treating glaucoma. For instance, according to a 2019 review, five randomized controlled trials found some evidence that cannabis could lower IOP. It is of note, though, that no studies compared cannabis with standard glaucoma treatment. Also, sample sizes were small, and the data were conflicting. However, an older study found that tetrahydrocannabinol could lower IOP, while CBD increased it. Various ophthalmic organizations do not recommend cannabis, because the evidence supporting its use is insufficient and because cannabis may cause side effects. The AAO states that even if cannabis does decrease IOP, the effect is too short-lived to help with glaucoma. A person would need to take enormous quantities of cannabis to get any benefit or to see consistent symptom improvement. Additionally, the AAO cautions that there is evidence that cannabis may harm the optic nerve. It notes that research on cannabidiol (CBD) is ongoing and may eventually show some benefits. Currently, however, there is insufficient scientific support for cannabis as a glaucoma treatment. Main benefits Some evidence indicates that cannabinoids, which are the chemicals in cannabis, have neuroprotective properties. According to animal studies, cannabinoids may increase blood flow to important structures in the eye. Proponents of medical cannabis for glaucoma argue that these findings suggest glaucoma might help reverse glaucoma or even cure it, not just manage symptoms. Other potential benefits of medical cannabis for glaucoma include:fewer side effects than with other treatmentsa reduced need for surgerybetter pain managementa treatment people perceive as “natural” However, research on cannabis for glaucoma is equivocal. Potential risks If a person replaces conventional treatments for glaucoma with cannabis, their condition may get worse. Also, cannabis is potentially addictive. Moreover, cannabis is illegal in many countries and at the federal level in the United States. That is why using cannabis may subject a person to legal risks, including jail. All treatments, including natural and alternative remedies, can cause side effects. Some risks and side effects of cannabis use include:lung damage, as smoking cannabis can lead to airway inflammation and chronic bronchitispreterm labor and pregnancy complications in pregnant people who use cannabisdecreased fertility in malesmental health issues, notably an increased risk of psychosis A small body of research notes that cannabis products could damage cells in the eye. Studies into cannabis use have also linked it to vision loss and decreased color perception, although the data are correlative. This means that researchers have not proven that cannabis causes these effects. Other alternative treatments for glaucoma No treatment can reverse vision loss from glaucoma. Instead, treatment focuses on preventing further damage. When medication proves ineffective, a person may need surgery. Some people choose alternative treatments instead. These include:Ginkgo biloba: Some people believe that the anti-inflammatory effects of this herb improve glaucoma symptoms.Dark leafy greens: A diet rich in dark leafy greens correlates with a lower risk of developing glaucoma.Omega-3 fatty acids: Consuming omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent inflammation and oxidative damage. Some people think omega-3 fatty acids may also prevent glaucoma, although research is not conclusive.B vitamin supplements: One study found a link between low levels of vitamin B12 and thinner retinal nerves.Antioxidant supplements: Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin A might help reverse oxidative damage or inflammation to manage or treat glaucoma.Melatonin: Melatonin may help ease sleep symptoms associated with glaucoma.Lifestyle changes: To manage glaucoma more effectively, some people may find it helpful to:reach or maintain a moderate body weightfollow a balanced dietget regular exerciseAlternative and complementary medicine: Some people turn to acupuncture, massage therapy, or other interventions to help with glaucoma. While some research suggests alternative therapies might help, or offers theoretical or animal models to support their use, there is no conclusive scientific data that these interventions help. There is also no evidence that alternative treatments are superior to conventional treatments. Summary Living with glaucoma can be difficult, and treatment is not effective for everyone. Moreover, it is impossible to reverse vision damage resulting from glaucoma. Consequently, many people turn to alternative treatments. Science has not fully explored the potential risks and benefits of cannabis. It is possible that scientific research will eventually back up people’s anecdotal experiences. Currently, however, there is not enough evidence to support cannabis use as a glaucoma treatment. People who still wish to try cannabis should seek guidance from a doctor who is knowledgeable about medical cannabis. It is advisable to discuss the risks, benefits, and side effects and to learn about the potential legal risks. Last medically reviewed on May 30, 2022Eye Health / BlindnessNeurology / NeurosciencePain / AnestheticsComplementary Medicine / Alternative MedicineMarijuana / Cannabis / CBD 10 sourcescollapsedMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Dietze, J., et al. (2022). Glaucoma.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538217/Lopez, M. J., et al. (2021). Cannabis use for glaucoma and associated pain.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572112/MacMillan, K., et al. (2019). Cannabis and glaucoma: A literature review.https://dalspace.library.dal.ca/bitstream/handle/10222/78955/9830-17586-1-SM.pdf?sequence=1Mouhammad, Z. A., et al. (2018). Should ophtalmologists recommend medical cannabis to patients with glaucoma? [Abstract].https://europepmc.org/article/med/30020072Patton, A., et al. (2021). Alternative treatments for glaucoma.https://eyewiki.aao.org/Alternative_Treatments_for_GlaucomaRafuse, P., et al. (2019). Medical use of cannabis for glaucoma [Abstract].https://www.canadianjournalofophthalmology.ca/article/S0008-4182(18)31163-3/fulltextTomida, I., et al. (2006). Effect of sublingual application of cannabinoids on intraocular pressure: A pilot study [Abstract].https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16988594Turbert, D., et al. (2021). Does marijuana help treat glaucoma or other eye conditions?https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/medical-marijuana-glaucoma-treamentTurner, A. R., et al. (2021). Marijuana.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430801/Weldy, E. W., et al. (2020). Perceptions of marijuana use for glaucoma from patients, cannabis retailers, and glaucoma specialists [Abstract].https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2589419620301733FEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Eloise Theisen, RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC — By Zawn Villines on May 30, 2022 Latest newsWhat sets 'SuperAgers' apart? Their unusually large neuronsOmega-3 may provide a brain boost for people in midlifeSeasonal affective disorder (SAD): How to beat it this fall and winterCDC: Monkeypox in the US 'unlikely to be eliminated in the near future'Why are more women prone to Alzheimer's? New clues arise Related CoverageDoes cannabis cause or treat anxiety?Medically reviewed by Jeff Chen, MD There is some evidence that cannabis use can cause symptoms of anxiety, while other evidence indicates that cannabis may help treat anxiety if people…READ MOREWhat to know about cannabis and bipolar disorderMedically reviewed by Eloise Theisen, RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC Though scientists are unsure, there are many anecdotal claims that cannabis may be beneficial for symptoms of bipolar disorder. Learn more. READ MOREWhat to know about marijuana (cannabis) and multiple sclerosisMedically reviewed by Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC-BC Cannabis has many potential uses, including the treatment of specific symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Learn more about the possible benefits here.READ MOREWhat is the difference between hemp CBD and cannabis CBD?Medically reviewed by Eloise Theisen, RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC The confusion surrounding hemp CBD vs. cannabis CBD relates to the plant's classification, name, and makeup. Learn more.READ MORE