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What are the findings of the 2019 Journal of Pain study on cannabis and migraines? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Julia Sutton, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Clarissa Morton, PharmD

Migraines  are a complex neurological condition that can severely impact quality of life. In recent years, researchers have investigated cannabis as a possible treatment option. The 2019 Journal of Pain on cannabis and migraine study offered significant insight into how cannabis might affect migraine frequency and severity, based on a large sample of patient-reported data. 

The study, published in a reputable peer-reviewed journal, analysed real-world use of cannabis among migraine sufferers. According to the 2019 Journal of Pain on cannabis and migraine study, participants reported fewer migraine episodes per month and reduced intensity when using cannabis products. These findings add to the growing body of migraine and cannabis research 2019, though the authors emphasised that further controlled trials are necessary to establish clear causation and dosage guidelines. 

Can I get medical cannabis legally for mental health support?

Key Findings 

Below are some of the main observations from the cannabis and migraine 2019 study and related outcomes from the journal of pain on cannabis and migraine. These reflect both statistical data and patient experiences reported during the research. 

Reduced migraine frequency 

Participants reported a noticeable drop in average monthly migraine days compared with periods without cannabis use. 

Lower pain intensity 

Cannabis appeared to lessen the severity of pain during migraine attacks, making them more manageable. 

Decreased reliance on medication 

Some individuals reduced or stopped using traditional migraine medications when using cannabis as part of their management plan. 

Fast onset of relief 

Inhaled cannabis products tended to provide quicker symptom relief compared to oral forms. 

Varied responses 

The benefits were not universal, with some participants experiencing minimal or no change in migraine patterns. 

While the 2019 Journal of Pain on cannabis and migraine study is promising, it highlights the need for larger, placebo-controlled trials to better understand the true potential and limitations of cannabis in migraine care. 

If you’re exploring cannabis treatment options for migraines, visit providers like LeafEase for personalised consultations and guidance tailored to your needs. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Medical Cannabis and migraines. 

Julia Sutton, MSc
Author

Julia Sutton is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and experience providing psychological assessment and therapy to adolescents and adults. Skilled in CBT, client-centered therapy, and evidence-based interventions, she has worked with conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and conversion disorder. She also has experience in child psychology, conducting psycho-educational evaluations and developing tailored treatment plans to improve learning and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Clarissa Morton, PharmD
Reviewer

Dr. Clarissa Morton is a licensed pharmacist with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and experience across hospital, community, and industrial pharmacy. She has worked in emergency, outpatient, and inpatient pharmacy settings, providing patient counseling, dispensing medications, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Alongside her pharmacy expertise, she has worked as a Support Plan & Risk Assessment (SPRA) officer and in medical coding, applying knowledge of medical terminology, EMIS, and SystmOne software to deliver accurate, compliant healthcare documentation. Her skills span medication safety, regulatory standards, healthcare data management, and statistical reporting.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewers's privacy. 

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