Medical Cannabis for Postherpetic Neuralgia — Switzerland 2026

10–20 % of shingles patients develop chronic nerve pain. Cannabis in gabapentin failure — members 50 CHF.

5,000–10,000 Swiss per year develop PHN after shingles. Standard: gabapentin, pregabalin, amitriptyline, capsaicin. Cannabis well-documented in refractory disease (Wallace 2013 RCT). Members: 50 CHF instead of 190.

What the studies show

Wallace 2013 (RCT): vaporized cannabis (1.29/3.53/7 % THC) reduces neuropathic pain dose-dependently up to 30 %.

Ellis 2009 (Neuropsychopharmacology): cannabis superior to placebo in HIV neuropathy and PHN.

Preparations & dosing

Dronabinol 2.5–5 mg 2–3× daily, slow titration.

THC/CBD oil 1:1 5 mg/5 mg evenings for sleep disturbance.

Save as a CannabisClub member

Neurology/pain medicine consultation: 190–290 CHF. Members: 50 CHF flat. Registration free.

FAQ

Does cannabis replace gabapentin?

Add-on or replacement only in gabapentin failure/side effects. Discontinue only with neurologist.

What does membership save?

50 CHF instead of 190 CHF per consultation. Registration free.

Does insurance cover it?

In documented refractory disease: art. 71a request possible.

Cannabis for Postherpetic Neuralgia — THC/CBD Switzerland 2026 (Members 50 CHF)