Synopsis

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

Cannabinoids, particularly those derived from Cannabis sativa such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have been studied for their potential to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a key risk factor in glaucoma. Scientific interest in cannabinoids for glaucoma dates back to the 1970s, when initial studies demonstrated that smoking marijuana could transiently reduce IOP in both healthy individuals and glaucoma patients. Subsequent research confirmed that cannabinoids administered systemically or topically could produce similar, short-term reductions in eye pressure. However, the effect typically lasts only 3–4 hours, requiring frequent dosing for sustained benefit, which poses significant challenges due to the psychoactive and systemic side effects of cannabinoids. Despite early promise, systematic reviews and professional ophthalmology organizations (such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology) have concluded that cannabinoids are not practical or safe as primary glaucoma therapies. Modern glaucoma treatment relies on medications and surgical interventions that provide more sustained and reliable IOP reduction with fewer side effects. Nonetheless, there is a scientific, though limited, basis for the use of cannabinoids in glaucoma, mainly related to their IOP-lowering effect. Their use remains experimental and is not widely endorsed by medical guidelines.

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