Can Cannabis Reduce Migraine Frequency? Real-World Results
What Researchers Found About Migraines and Cannabis
The Study at a Glance
Published
Pharmacotherapy, 2016
Researchers
University of Colorado (United States)
Study Type
Observational StudyParticipants
121 patients · Average 4.5 years
Key Finding
Migraine patients using medical cannabis saw their monthly headache frequency drop from 10.4 to 4.6—a reduction of more than half—with 40% reporting at least 50% fewer migraines.
Key Finding: Migraine patients using medical cannabis saw their monthly headache frequency drop from 10.4 to 4.6—a reduction of more than half—with 40% reporting at least 50% fewer migraines.
What Researchers Studied About Migraines and Cannabis
Migraines affect 39 million Americans and can be debilitating. Researchers reviewed records of migraine patients who were recommended medical marijuana to see if it helped reduce their headache frequency.
This real-world study tracked what actually happened when patients started using cannabis for migraines.
How This Observational Study Was Conducted
Researchers reviewed medical records from specialty clinics in Colorado:
• 121 adults diagnosed with migraines • Recommended medical marijuana by their physician • Tracked before and after migraine frequency • Average follow-up of 4.5 years • Collected data on cannabis form and dose when available
Migraines Treatment Results
The Main Results:
- 1Monthly migraines decreased from 10.4 to 4.6 on average
- 239.7% of patients reported at least 50% reduction in migraines
- 319.8% reported cannabis helped abort acute migraines
- 411.6% reported prevention of migraines
- 5Edibles were most commonly reported for prevention, inhaled for acute relief
By the Numbers
| Statistic | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 10.4→4.6 | monthly migraines before vs after cannabis |
| 40% | achieved at least 50% reduction in frequency |
| 56% | reduction in average monthly migraines |
| 11.6% | reported migraines were prevented entirely |
monthly migraines before vs after cannabis
achieved at least 50% reduction in frequency
reduction in average monthly migraines
reported migraines were prevented entirely
What This Means for Migraines Patients
If you suffer from frequent migraines, this study suggests cannabis might help:
Key findings: • Average migraine frequency was cut by more than half • Nearly 40% of patients achieved 50%+ reduction • Both prevention (edibles) and acute treatment (inhaled) showed benefits
Practical tips from the study: • Edibles may work better for preventing migraines • Inhaled cannabis may help abort migraines once they start • Work with a knowledgeable provider to find the right approach
Quick Answers: Migraines and Cannabis
Direct answers based on the findings of this study:
Research Summary: Answers are based on published peer-reviewed studies and represent research findings, not medical recommendations. Individual results may vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.
Does weed help migraines?
Yes, by about 56% in one study. A Colorado study found migraine patients cut their headaches from 10.4 to 4.6 per month using medical marijuana, with 40% having at least half as many migraines (Rhyne et al., Pharmacotherapy, 2016).
Source: Rhyne et al., Pharmacotherapy, 2016 (PMID: 26749285)
Does marijuana prevent migraines?
Yes, frequency dropped by more than half. A real-world study found migraine frequency dropped from 10.4 to 4.6 per month. Edibles were commonly used for prevention, while smoking/vaping helped stop migraines once they started.
Source: Rhyne et al., Pharmacotherapy, 2016 (PMID: 26749285)
Can I get medical marijuana for migraines?
Yes, migraines qualify in several states, sometimes under "chronic pain." A 2016 study found patients cut their headaches by more than half using cannabis.
Source: Rhyne et al., Pharmacotherapy, 2016 (PMID: 26749285)
This is educational content, not medical advice
The research summarized here is for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and what works in studies may not work the same way for everyone. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan or starting medical cannabis therapy.
Important Limitations
This study has some caveats to keep in mind when interpreting the results:
- Retrospective study without a control group
- Patients may have changed other factors (diet, stress, other medications)
- Cannabis types and doses varied widely
- Self-reported migraine frequency may be imprecise
- Doesn't distinguish between THC and CBD effects
The Bottom Line on Cannabis for Migraines
This real-world study found that medical cannabis cut migraine frequency by more than half in a population of chronic sufferers. While not definitive proof, it adds to evidence that cannabis deserves consideration for migraine management.
Do You Qualify for Medical Marijuana?
If you're living with Migraines, you may qualify for a medical marijuana card. Our licensed physicians can evaluate you from home via telehealth.
Related Research & Resources
Related Research
Condition Research
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This condition qualifies for medical marijuana in:
Source
Rhyne DN, Anderson SL, Gedde M, Borgelt LM. "Effects of Medical Marijuana on Migraine Headache Frequency in an Adult Population" Pharmacotherapy. 2016. DOI: 10.1002/phar.1673
Important Information
Study Age: This study was published 10 years ago. Newer research may have updated or refined these findings.
Not Medical Advice: This research summary is for educational purposes only. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment.
Individual Variation: Research findings represent group averages. Your individual response to cannabis may differ based on genetics, other medications, underlying conditions, and many other factors.
Last reviewed: January 24, 2026
Important Notices
Research Summary Disclaimer
This content represents our interpretation of published scientific research for educational purposes. It should not be used to make treatment decisions without consulting a qualified healthcare provider. Individual results may vary from study findings.
FDA Notice
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Cannabis is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not approved cannabis for any medical condition except specific prescription medications.
Copyright & Fair Use
Research summaries are provided under fair use (17 U.S.C. § 107) for educational purposes. We provide brief summaries with attribution, not full reproductions. All studies remain the intellectual property of their respective authors and publishers.
Data Sources
Study information sourced from PubMed®, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by NLM, NIH, or the federal government.
For complete information, see our Terms of Use and Research Content Policy.
FAQs: Cannabis for Migraines
Can cannabis help prevent migraines?
Yes, research shows significant reduction. A 2016 study found medical cannabis reduced monthly migraines from 10.4 to 4.6 on average, a 56% reduction. 40% of patients achieved at least 50% fewer migraines.
Are migraines a qualifying condition for medical marijuana?
Yes, in many states. Migraines or chronic headaches are qualifying conditions in many states. Check your state's specific list, as some classify them under "chronic pain."
What cannabis form works best for migraines?
Edibles for prevention, inhalation for acute attacks. The study found edibles were most commonly used for migraine prevention, while inhaled cannabis was preferred for stopping migraines once they started.