Cannabis use in menopause: cross-sectional survey

Introduction and clinical context

The study Cannabis use in menopause: cross-sectional survey (PubMed · 2023) is part of the scientific research on the use of cannabinoids in menopause and women's health.

In the menopause transition, symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood changes and pain lead a growing number of women to seek medical cannabis. Surveys and qualitative studies describe patterns of use and the perception of symptomatic relief, but observational data predominate — controlled clinical trials are lacking. Use should be individualized and discussed with a healthcare professional.

Understanding what science shows about the use of cannabinoids in menopause and women's health helps patients and healthcare professionals make safer, well-founded decisions, based on evidence rather than common sense.

Methodology and findings

This scientific review gathered and critically appraised the available literature on the topic. Survey (women ≥35 years): patterns and perceptions of cannabis use for menopause symptoms. As a synthesis of multiple studies, it offers a more robust picture than isolated reports, though it depends on the quality of the included works. For clinical practice, syntheses like this help calibrate expectations and support clinical decisions.

Mechanism of action and safety

In menopause, the hormonal decline interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which takes part in regulating mood, sleep, temperature and pain — the rationale for the reported symptomatic relief, with CBD and THC acting on CB1/CB2 receptors and related targets. Safety considers comorbidities common in this phase, such as cardiovascular risk: effects such as dizziness and drowsiness deserve attention, as do drug interactions. As observational data predominate, use should be individualized, discussed with the healthcare professional and integrated into the overall approach to women's health.

Regulation in Brazil (Anvisa)

In Brazil, access to cannabis products is regulated by Anvisa — mainly through RDC 660/2022 (patient import with a medical prescription) and the new manufacturing and import framework, RDC 1,015/2026. Any therapeutic use must start from an individualized medical assessment and prescription. This content is informative and scientific and does not replace the guidance of a healthcare professional.

This is informative content produced by Brazcann; for the full methodology and detailed results, consult the original publication (PubMed · 2023). Access to cannabis treatments must always occur through the regulated pathway, with a prescription and medical follow-up.

Frequently asked questions

Does cannabis help with menopause symptoms?

There are reports of relief (sleep, mood, pain), but the evidence is observational; use should be individualized.

Are there clinical trials yet?

Surveys and qualitative studies predominate; controlled trials are lacking.