Synopsis

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

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis, has been investigated for its potential to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a major risk factor for glaucoma. Early studies in the 1970s found that smoking marijuana or ingesting THC could reduce IOP in both healthy individuals and glaucoma patients. The proposed mechanism involves cannabinoid receptors (CB1) in the eye, which may modulate aqueous humor outflow and production, thus reducing pressure. However, the IOP-lowering effect of THC is generally short-lived (lasting 3-4 hours), requiring frequent dosing for sustained benefit. This dosing frequency is impractical due to THC's psychoactive side effects, potential for dependency, and health risks associated with chronic cannabis use. Furthermore, later research and reviews have highlighted the lack of robust, long-term clinical trials demonstrating that THC or cannabis can effectively prevent optic nerve damage or vision loss in glaucoma. As a result, major ophthalmology organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, do not recommend THC or cannabis as a treatment for glaucoma. While there is scientific evidence showing a short-term reduction in IOP, it is insufficient to support its use as a primary or adjunctive therapy for glaucoma, especially when compared to standard treatments.

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