Medical cannabis treatments for Sjogren’s syndrome

Medical cannabis may help some patients with Sjogren’s syndrome deal with the associated symptoms, but it is not a cure. 

Sjogren’s syndrome is an inflammatory autoimmune condition that is classified as a rheumatic condition, and may occur alongside other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. The primary symptom that sets it apart from other conditions is that it affects glands that produce moisture, such as saliva or tears, leading to dry mouth, dry eye, and even dry skin.

These symptoms are more than just uncomfortable. Dry eyes can be painful, and, over time, constant dryness can damage the eyes. Dry mouth leads to problems chewing and encourages bacteria and fungal infections, increasing the risk of dental problems. Pain, fatigue, and low mood are also commonly experienced with this condition.

Who does Sjogren’s syndrome affect in the UK?

Only 0.1% to 0.4% of the population has Sjogren’s syndrome, but despite this seemingly low figure, it’s the second-most common autoimmune rheumatic disease, after rheumatoid arthritis. Statistics show that 90% of Sjogren’s syndrome patients are women, and they’re most likely to develop the condition between the ages of 40 and 60. However, Sjogren’s syndrome can affect anyone.

What symptoms does Sjogren’s Syndrome cause?

The most well-known symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dry mouth and eyes, and patients may experience dryness in other areas of the body, such as the skin or genitals. This dryness can be very uncomfortable and may lead to sores, ulcers, or an inability to use dentures or other dental implants. Sjogren’s syndrome patients are also prone to pain and issues with their eyes caused by the constant dryness.

Sjogren’s syndrome often causes chronic pain, ranging from arthritic pain in the joints to peripheral neuropathy, which causes pain, tingling, or burning sensations due to damaged nerves. 

Sjogren’s syndrome is also associated with fatigue, which can become disabling for some patients. Fatigue can then lead to poor concentration and focus, often called brain fog. The inability to do daily tasks and the unpredictability of a long-term, chronic condition can also cause depression or anxiety, or both. Sjogren’s syndrome can also lead to nausea and digestive complaints.

What treatments are currently available for Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Currently, Sjogren’s syndrome is incurable. All medications and symptoms are focused on symptom management and promoting a higher quality of life. Some conventional treatments may have undesirable side effects, so patients have to weigh up the pros and cons before committing to a treatment plan.

Common medications prescribed to Sjogren’s syndrome patients include:

Other interventions include more regular dental checkups to prevent decay and tooth loss, and frequent ophthalmological exams to ensure the eyes aren’t damaged by constant dryness. Because treatment options are fairly limited, it’s common for patients to seek out alternative treatments for Sjogren’s syndrome.

What is the dryness paradox with cannabis and Sjogren’s syndrome?

Medical cannabis is sometimes associated with dry mouth, with some patients reporting dry mouth as a potential side effect. Yet, medical cannabis for Sjogren’s syndrome may still be prescribed by a clinician, in some cases.

This is because of the link between inflammation and dry mouth in Sjogren’s syndrome. Experts believe that inflammation, in response to an overactive immune system, is what causes Sjogren’s symptoms like dry mouth and dry eyes. Reducing that inflammation could, potentially, offer some relief. So, when it comes to medical cannabis dry mouth, Sjogren's syndrome offers a strange paradox: some people may find that they suffer from less dry mouth when prescribed a suitable cannabis-based medicine.

Can medical cannabis help with Sjogren’s syndrome symptoms?

The application of potentially therapeutic compounds like CBD and THC for Sjogren’s syndrome could offer relief for the following symptoms:

What does the research say about cannabis and Sjogren’s syndrome?

No research has yet been completed on the specific benefits of medical cannabis for Sjogren's syndrome. However, there are studies that suggest medical cannabis could offer relief for some key symptoms associated with the disease. 

Digestive complaints and nausea are common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. A 2021 study into the effects of CBD on the intestinal barrier concluded that cannabinoids reduced or even prevented oxidative stress in the intestines, promoting lower digestive health.

A 2022 systematic review of studies into the impact of medical cannabis on sleep concluded with “moderate certainty” that medical cannabis promoted at least small improvements in pain levels, even for patients with chronic pain.

When it comes to medical cannabis, autoimmune diseases aren’t curable, of course. But taking THC or CBD for Sjogren’s syndrome could, for some patients, promote a better quality of life. Various patient stories suggest that medical cannabis could offer relief for arthritic pain and sleeplessness, common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. One patient had this to say:

“It doesn’t take the pain away completely, but it helps me not to focus on it as much, which has made such a difference. I have struggled to get a decent night’s sleep for years, but that has also changed now. The impact it has had on my sleep has been very surprising. I love curling up on the couch with a new show to watch. I love that feeling of finally being able to relax away from the pain, and slowly fading off to sleep peacefully is something that had escaped me for a good while.”

How does the endocannabinoid system relate to Sjogren’s syndrome?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is connected to most aspects of health and wellness, including the immune system, sleep, and mood regulation. It’s also linked to appetite and the digestive system. 

Phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids from plants) may impact the ECS in potentially therapeutic ways, offering possible relief for many symptoms associated with Sjogren’s syndrome.

Am I eligible for medical cannabis for Sjogren’s syndrome at Releaf?

There are many symptoms and conditions medical cannabis can be prescribed for in the UK. These include some of the symptoms associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, like fatigue, arthritic pain, and mood disorders. To find out if you could be eligible for medical cannabis for Sjogren’s syndrome, head to the checker on the Releaf website.  

Releaf has a world-class clinical team with over 50 specialists, including experts in autoimmune conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome. That expertise is one reason why Releaf is the most trusted UK medical cannabis clinic, with a 240,000+ strong community.  

Before you book your consultation, have a look at how Releaf pricing works:

·        £99 for your initial consultation

·        £19.99 for each prescription charge with a £4.99 charge for delivery, plus any relevant medication charges

·        £69.99 for follow-up consultations

Alternatively, you can opt for Releaf+. For £39.99 per month after the initial consultation fee, you enjoy free prescription charges and delivery and discounted medication. Follow-up consultations are also included. Additional benefits include a rewards plan and access to Releaf Protect, an advisory service on legal aspects of medical cannabis.

You’re also eligible for a free medical cannabis card once you pay for your first prescription.  This card is delivered separately from your medication and can take 3-5 days to arrive. A medical cannabis card can’t guarantee you won’t be questioned by the police, but it may help you identify yourself as a legal medical cannabis patient. Releaf can also help you plan overseas travel more carefully, offering advice on when you need to apply for travel certificates.

Find out if you’re eligible for medical cannabis for long COVID symptoms using the medical cannabis eligibility checker or contact our team.

FAQs on medical cannabis for Sjogren’s syndrome

Will medical cannabis make my dry mouth worse?

Some people do find that one of the side effects of medical cannabis is dry mouth. However, 62% of people surveyed by Releaf reported zero side effects when taking medical cannabis. Some patients may find that taking a medication that reduces inflammation may also reduce the impact of dry mouth. 

Will medical cannabis interact with hydroxychloroquine?

There are no recorded interactions between hydroxychloroquine and medical cannabis at this time, but that doesn’t mean that an interaction is impossible. Let your Releaf clinician know all medications you’re taking so they can offer the best advice about medical cannabis. 

What types of medical cannabis might be prescribed for Sjogren’s syndrome?

Because Sjogren’s syndrome is often linked to dry mouth, pastilles that require chewing may be unsuitable. Capsules taken with plenty of water may be the most comfortable format to take. When you book a consultation for medical cannabis Sjogren’s syndrome UK treatments, let the clinician know if you have format preferences.

Can medical cannabis help with Sjogren’s joint pain?

With medical cannabis, Sjogren’s pain could, in some cases, be lessened or less noticeable. The potentially therapeutic compounds in medical cannabis can help some people cope with pain better and may offer an improvement to their quality of life.