Medical cannabis treatments for AOSD

Yes, medical cannabis may help control some of the co-occuring symptoms of Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD).

Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD is a rare form of arthritis associated with pain and inflammation, fever, a sore throat caused by swollen lymph nodes, and a pink rash. The rash can be hard to spot, depending on your skin tone, and both the rash and fever may come and go. Some people find that the fever occurs more in the morning, or is worse at certain times of day.

AOSD is caused by your body’s own immune response. In other words, the body believes that something is attacking it and responds by raising inflammation levels across multiple joints. Because it impacts various areas of the body, AOSD is known as a systemic condition. 

Another common symptom of AOSD is severe fatigue, which may not be improved with rest or sleep. Sleep disruptions are also common due to the pain. The ongoing symptoms and unpredictability of the condition can also lead to anxiety and depression.

Who does adult-onset Still's disease affect in the UK?

Adults of any age may develop AOSD, and the exact cause is unknown. Experts state that the condition is most likely to start between the ages of 16 and 35, and is more prevalent in women. 

What symptoms does adult-onset Still's disease cause?

As an arthritic condition, pain is often the most challenging symptom associated with AOSD. Treatment plans are usually focused on pain management, which will help the patient sleep better and regulate their mood more effectively.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common symptoms of AOSD:

 

 

The psychological impact of this condition can’t be ignored. Not knowing when a flare-up may occur, or when the condition may ease, can lead to intense anxiety and depression.

What is macrophage activation syndrome, and why does it matter for AOSD patients?

A more dangerous complication of AOSD is macrophage activation syndrome. (MAS). MAS occurs as a secondary condition to some rheumatic and arthritic diseases. It occurs when the immune system goes into overdrive, producing acute levels of inflammation that can cause organ failure. Steroids and biological treatments may be required to slow and stop MAS. 

If untreated, MAS has a potential lethality rate of up to 53%.

What treatments are currently available for adult-onset Still's disease?

The primary treatments for AOSD are pain medications, ranging from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to corticosteroids. Other medications work by suppressing the immune system, while some are classed as biological treatments and work by adding antibodies to help regulate the immune system.

Some more detailed information on specific AOSD treatments:

 

Can medical cannabis treatment help with my adult-onset Still's disease symptoms?

There are many different conditions medical cannabis can be prescribed for, and depending on your specific situation, AOSD may be one of them. Medical cannabis for adult-onset Still's disease is a potentially therapeutic alternative treatment that could help with symptoms including:

• Pain and inflammation

• Sleep disturbances

• Anxiety

• Depression

Regulating your sleep pattern can be a key factor in regaining a feeling of control over your life, and avoiding associated mental health problems.

THC for adult-onset Still's disease may help reduce the pain associated with arthritic conditions like AOSD. Medical cannabis contains many therapeutic compounds beyond THC, including CBD and terpenes. The application of CBD for adult-onset Still’s disease could help with relaxation and sleep.

Importantly, when a clinician prescribes medical cannabis, you gain the benefit of a balance of these compounds. Releaf clinicians understand different medical cannabis strains and will find the right one for you. They’ll consider indica vs sativa strains, for example, or whether a strain with higher levels of CBD may be beneficial.

How does the endocannabinoid system relate to adult-onset Still's disease?

The human endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors in the body that impacts different organs and systems, including the immune system. When all your systems are working in harmony, this promotes a state of being called homeostasis, which promotes wellness. 

Your body produces its own cannabinoids, which bind to the receptors in the endocannabinoid system. However, the system can still be unbalanced and not able to regulate your internal environment effectively. Medical cannabis may offer therapeutic effects via plant-based cannabinoids and other compounds like terpenes, which help re-regulate the endocannabinoid system.

With a prescription of medical cannabis AOSD pain and inflammation may be reduced, and some patients experience improved sleep and better mood management. 

What does the research say about cannabis and adult-onset Still's disease?

Research specifically into the impact of medical cannabis for adult-onset Still’s disease treatment is currently lacking. However, there have been studies into how medical cannabis impacts patients with other arthritic conditions.

Data published in the journal Cureus showed an assessment of 290 patients diagnosed with different types of arthritis. Patients reported a significant drop in pain levels after taking cannabinoids. Specifically, on the pain scale from 1-10, the average pain level fell from 6.16 to 3.89. 

When it comes to medical cannabis, systemic inflammatory arthritis conditions like AOSD could be easier to live with when taking a medically-advised prescription. Patient stories offer anecdotal evidence that supports this, including this statement from one patient who was struggling with both pain and sleeplessness:

“Before medical cannabis, I couldn't sit or stand still, even for short periods. I’d be up and down, changing positions and always moving around. Now, I’m able to sit still for longer periods, which is quite impressive. My pain has eased a lot, compared to what it was, and there have been no negative side effects—nothing at all.”

What forms of Releaf medical cannabis can be prescribed for adult-onset Still's disease?

When it comes to cannabinoids like THC and CBD adult onset stills disease symptoms may respond well, with the potential for a reduction in pain and an improvement in the quality of life. If you’re eligible for medical cannabis, you may receive it in the following forms:

• Oils

• Pastilles

• Dried flower for vaporisers

• Vapes

• Capsules

Discuss what format will work best for you when you have your Releaf consultation. 

Am I eligible for UK medical cannabis treatment for adult-onset Still's disease?

Medical cannabis AOSD UK treatments are legal when prescribed by an authorised clinic. To find out if you may be able to get a prescription, use Releaf’s medical cannabis checker. 

Releaf is the most trusted UK medical cannabis clinic with a world-class clinical team. Our specialists listen to you and have a deep understanding of your condition. If you find out you could be eligible for medical cannabis for adult-onset Still’s disease treatment, pricing is transparent. 

Here’s how Releaf pricing works:

• £99 for an initial consultation

• £19.99 per prescription on the Pay As You Go plan plus a £4.99 delivery fee

• £69.99 for future consultations 

 

Alternatively, you can opt for Releaf+. This option costs £39.99 a month and includes all follow-up consultations, plus there’s a discount on medication and other benefits. 

All Releaf patients are eligible for a UK medical cannabis card, which is free of charge once you’ve paid for your first prescription. The card is delivered separately from your prescribed medication and can take 3 to 5 days for delivery. Your medical cannabis card doesn’t guarantee you won’t be questioned by the police, but it can help you quickly identify yourself as a legal medical cannabis patient.

There are many other useful resources from Releaf, from articles to surveys. You can use these resources to figure out if you need medical cannabis travel certificates, or, as a Releaf+ patient, you can access Releaf Protect for legal advice about medical cannabis. There’s even a refer-a-friend scheme, so you can help someone else find out if they’re eligible for symptomatic relief. 

Check your eligibility today or contact us for more information about joining the 240,000+ strong Releaf community. 

FAQs on medical cannabis for adult-onset Still's disease

Can medical cannabis help during an AOSD flare?

Medical cannabis for adult-onset Still’s disease treatment is usually prescribed for use between flares, to help manage pain and other symptoms. When taking medical cannabis, the spiking fever arthritis causes may be easier to manage, but this varies between patients. Discuss your specific condition and symptoms with your Releaf clinician to ensure you receive the right treatment for you.

Can medical cannabis be prescribed alongside my biologic therapy?

Biological therapies are highly regulated and monitored, usually by a specialist, who can let you know exactly what you are taking and why. Share these details with your Releaf clinician to get the best advice on whether medical cannabis is appropriate for you alongside your current medications. 

What should I do if I develop macrophage activation syndrome while prescribed medical cannabis?

Any signs of MAS should be immediately reported to a medical professional, as you will need urgent treatment. If your inflammation levels peak or you feel particularly unwell, seek emergency medical assistance.

Can medical cannabis help with the fatigue that persists between AOSD flares?

Medical cannabis for adult-onset Still’s disease treatment can offer multiple therapeutic benefits, including helping to restore healthier sleep patterns for some patients. This may help manage persistent fatigue and gently improve your quality of life.