RenewLog in

Get your medical card online in minutes!

Get started

Explore A-Z conditions

Cannabis for Gastro-Esophagal Reflux Disease (GERD)

calendar-icon

Last updated on Oct 7, 2024

Created on Jan 4, 2022

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. Symptoms of GERD can include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food, chronic cough, disrupted sleep, nausea and vomiting. GERD is more likely to occur in those who are obese, pregnant, have a hiatal hernia, or suffer from connective tissue disorders such as scleroderma. Smoking, caffeine and alcohol are aggravating factors. Common treatments include a change in diet and the proton pump inhibitor (PPI), omeprazole.

As for medical cannabis as a treatment for GERD, the results are mixed. One animal study shows an 80% reduction in transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter, whereas other case studies show that smoke of any type can make GERD worse. Eating the wrong foods may also contribute to GERD. However, medical cannabis taken as a tincture or edible may be helpful for treating nausea, vomiting, appetite loss and stomach aches associated with GERD.

Some irritable bowel disease (IBDs) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be mistaken for GERD, as well as complicate it if they are comorbid.

Get your medical marijuana card

Connect with a licensed physician online in minutes.

  • Larger purchase limits
  • Access to higher potency strains
  • Save up to 40% on product taxes
  • Enhanced legal protection

Research Overview

Animal Study

5

Animal Study -

1

Double Blind Clinical Trial

4

Laboratory Study

1

Meta-analysis

13

Total studies

Gastro-Esophagal Reflux Disease (GERD)

24

Positive

17 studies

71%

Negative

4 studies

17%

Inconclusive

3 studies

13%

Do I qualify?

Select your state from the drop down and we’ll let you know.

Relevant studies

The information in our comprehensive A to Z encyclopedia comes from real scientific studies.

Uncover the detailed results of these studies and find out how effective medical marijuana is for dozens of conditions.