Researchers from both the University of East Anglia (UEA), in the UK and University of Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, Spain, carried out research on mice and discovered how the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis can be blocked, while several beneficial effects, including pain relief remain. The latest findings have been published in the journal PLOS Biology, It is hoped the new findings can aid the development of cannabis for medical use, without the risk of its unwanted side effects.

The latest study will add further weight to an already highly contested topic. The potential beneficial medical effects and dangers of cannabis use has rarely strayed from the public’s eye. Twenty-three US States and the District of Columbia have already passed legislation allowing the use of cannabis for medical use.

Furthermore, Oregon has recently become the fourth US State, after Alaska, Colorado and Washington, to legalize the drug for recreational use, and studies are increasingly delving further into the full effects of the drug.

Dr. Peter McCormick from UEA’s School of Pharmacy, stated this research is important for future development of treatment as it identifies THC’s unwanted side effects while maintaining pain reduction. However, Dr. McCormick was quick to warn of the dangers of individuals self-medicating, but stated he hopes the research would lead to a “safe synthetic equivalent being available in the future.”