Sickle-Cell Anemia

Understand how medical marijuana helps with Sickle-Cell Anemia.

Medical marijuana can help with the symptoms of sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary disease that causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, rigid, and sticky. This can lead to blockages in blood vessels and other health problems. 

Causes

• A mutation in the hemoglobin gene, which causes the body to produce an abnormal form of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S.

• Inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both copies of the gene must be mutated. 

Symptoms 

• Painful swelling in the hands and feet

• Frequent episodes of pain

• Anemia, which can cause dizziness, shortness of breath, and fatigue

• Jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mouth

• Dark urine

• Stunted growth

• Stroke

Initial Treatment 

• Pain relievers

• Hydroxyurea (Hydrea)

• Blood transfusions

• Stem cell transplants, which are only appropriate for some patients

Complications

• Sickle cells don't live as long as normal red blood cells, which can lead to anemia.

• Sickle cells can block blood vessels, which can lead to strokes.

Sickle cell anemia is most common in people of West and Central African descent. 

Medical marijuana can help with Sickle-Cell Anemia.

According to the Mississippi Cannabis Patients Alliance, the use of medical cannabis in the treatment of sickle cell anemia is demonstrated to be safe and effective, especially in side effects such as chronic and debilitating pain.

Additionally, as medical cannabis treatment continues, patients are more likely to have more energy, increase physical activity, sleep better, and have better impacts on their mental health.

How it works

• THC: THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nerve cells, which can slow pain impulses and reduce pain perception. 

• CBD: CBD may help reduce inflammation and stimulate the immune response. 

• CB1 receptors: THC and CBD modulate CB1 receptors in the spinal cord and central nociception processing areas, which can reduce pain. 

• CB2 receptors: THC and CBD found in marijuana activate CB2 receptors, which can reduce inflammation in patients with sickle-cell anemia.