Dr. Adam Abodeely, MD

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Unlocking the Potential of Cannabis in Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Evidence, Applications, and Challenges

Dr. Adam Abodeely, MD, MBA, FACS, FASCRS, Founder and CEO, Adirondack Gastrointestinal & Colorectal Surgery, LLC

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, represents a complex and chronic condition of the gastrointestinal tract with significant clinical and social burdens. While traditional treatments such as corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and biologics dominate current management strategies, they are often accompanied by severe side effects and limited efficacy for some patients. Emerging evidence highlights the potential of cannabis and its cannabinoids as alternative or adjunct therapies, leveraging the endocannabinoid system’s vital role in gastrointestinal function and immune regulation.

This presentation explores the therapeutic applications of cannabis in IBD management, synthesizing findings from preclinical studies, patient surveys, retrospective reviews, and clinical trials. Key outcomes include its impact on symptom relief, quality of life improvement, and a potential reduction in reliance on conventional medications. However, dosing complexities, limited robust clinical data, and the unpredictable gut environment in IBD pose distinct challenges, particularly regarding oral bioavailability and consistent therapeutic outcomes.

Drawing from current research and case studies, this presentation will provide attendees with an evidence-based overview, discuss special considerations for cannabis use in IBD patients with severe disease complications, and propose future directions for optimizing cannabinoid therapies. By tailoring treatment to individual needs, clinicians may unlock new pathways for improving outcomes in this intricate and life-altering condition.

Dr. Adam Abodeely, MD, MBA, FACS, FASCRS, is the founder and CEO of Adirondack Gastrointestinal & Colorectal Surgery, LLC, and holds dual board certifications in General and Colorectal Surgery. Specializing in gastrointestinal cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, and motility disorders, he has been a pioneer in integrating medical cannabis and alternative forms of healing into his practice since 2010 and formally integrated medical cannabis into his medical practice in 2016 and has since treated thousands of patients with medical cannabis.

Dr. Abodeely's dedication to holistic health and wellness led him to co-found Coral Cove Wellness Resort in Jamaica, where he serves as CEO. This resort and retreat is a sanctuary for exploring alternative wellness therapies, including cannabis, alternative wellness applications, integrative medicine, and psychedelics. Additionally, he is a sought-after consultant in the cannabis and wellness industry, offering expertise on various product and experience applications, alternative wellness methods, and product development.

As a thought leader in the cannabis industry, Dr. Abodeely has made significant contributions through his book, “A Surgeon’s Perspective on the Science & Truth of Cannabis,” numerous peer-reviewed publications, and educational platforms on cannabinoids. His leadership extends to his roles as the former Chairman of the Education and Dispensary Review Committees and as a current board member of the Association of Cannabinoid Specialists and The Cannavision InstituteTM.Dr. Tishler is a Cannabinoid Specialist and a patient-centric physician whose focus is to provide patients with ongoing guidance and care that they won’t find at card mills or dispensaries.