Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phytocannabinoids, particularly those derived from Cannabis sativa such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have been investigated for their potential to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), a key risk factor in glaucoma. Historically, the use of cannabis for glaucoma gained attention in the 1970s, when anecdotal reports and preliminary studies indicated that smoking marijuana could reduce IOP temporarily. Scientific studies since then have confirmed that cannabinoids can reduce IOP by approximately 25-30%; however, this effect is short-lived, lasting 3-4 hours, which would necessitate frequent dosing to maintain therapeutic benefit. Moreover, the psychoactive side effects of THC and other cannabinoids, as well as concerns about addiction and long-term safety, limit their widespread clinical acceptance for glaucoma management. Current glaucoma treatments, such as prostaglandin analogs and beta-blockers, offer more sustained and predictable IOP reduction with fewer systemic side effects. While research continues into the development of cannabinoid-based eye drops or analogs with fewer psychoactive effects, as of now, major ophthalmological organizations do not recommend phytocannabinoids as a primary or adjunctive therapy for glaucoma. In summary, there is some scientific basis for the use of phytocannabinoids in glaucoma, but the evidence is moderate at best, with significant limitations that preclude routine clinical use.

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