Cannabis has come a long way since we last covered it in 2020. With more patients using CBD and medical cannabis to help manage chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and sleep issues, it is time for an important update. In this episode, AiArthritis Health Education Manager Leila P. L. Valete is joined by co-hosts and patient advocates Eileen Davidson and Bridget Seritt for a real conversation about what has changed, what we still need to learn, and what patients should know before trying cannabis for autoimmune and autoinflammatory arthritis.

The hosts explore how research, attitudes, and medical discussions around cannabis have evolved. They share their own experiences using CBD and cannabis, discuss new findings from rheumatology research, and highlight the ongoing need for better access, safety education, and provider awareness. The conversation also looks at how stigma is shifting as more patients and clinicians see cannabis as a legitimate part of symptom management rather than a last resort.

Whether you’re new to the topic or already using cannabis as part of your treatment, this episode offers clear guidance, personal insight, and a thoughtful look at its role in patient care.

Episode Highlights:

• How conversations around cannabis and CBD have evolved since 2020
• What new research says about its role in managing pain, sleep, and mental health
• Patient experiences using cannabis alongside traditional treatments
• Benefits, risks, and the ongoing debate around medical versus self-directed use
• How access, education, and stigma continue to shape patient choices

• Go With Us! to EULAR 2025: Should Doctors Prescribe Cannabis for Autoimmune Disease?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iw-KJWbKpuo
• Have questions about this episode or topics you want to hear us bring to the table? Email us at podcast@aiarthritis.org
• Donate to Support the Show: www.aiarthritis.org/donate

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Connect with our Co Hosts:

Leila is the Health Education Manager at the International Foundation for AiArthritis. She is a person living with Lupus and Sjögren’s disease. She is passionate about inclusion and diversity in health education and meeting individuals where they are at in order to learn in a way that resonates with them.

Connect with Leila:

Tiktok: @Lupus.lifestyle.lei

Instagram: @Lupus.lifestyle.lei

Eileen Davidson is a rheumatoid arthritis patient advocate from Vancouver Canada. She volunteers with the Arthritis Research Canada patient advisory board and the Canadian Institute of Health Research - Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis patient engagement research ambassador, among others. When not advocating she is writing about her experience with arthritis through Creaky Joints, Healthline, Chronic Eileen or can be found being a mom to her son Jacob.

Connect with Eileen:

Twitter: @ChronicEileen

Instagram: @ChronicEileen

Facebook: @ChronicEileen

Bridget Dandaraw-Seritt founded a patient based organization that advocates for access to compassionate care and provides community support. She’s a published author on therapeutic cannabis, presents at medical conferences, and is engaged in the policy making process.

Connect with Bridget:

Facebook: Advocates for Compassionate Therapy Now