Dr. Terel Spencer Newton, M.D.

Most recent certifications: 

• AI in Healthcare (MIT, Stanford) 

• AI for Business (UPenn School of Business)

Board Certified Anesthesiologist | Interventional Pain Consultant | Medical Director, Trulieve

Dr. Terel Spencer Newton is among the top one percent of physicians in the United States formally trained in pain medicine. As a fellowship trained Interventional Pain Consultant and Board Certified Anesthesiologist, he has performed more than ten thousand image guided procedures that help patients overcome chronic pain and regain quality of life.

As the Medical Director of Trulieve, the largest medical cannabis network in the United States, Dr. Newton is a national voice for evidence based, non opioid approaches to pain care. His work integrates regenerative medicine, neuro pain modulation, and cannabinoid science to create safer, more effective treatment pathways for patients with complex and chronic conditions.

A former high school science teacher turned clinician and educator, Dr. Newton has spoken at more than fifty national and international events including the Florida Medical Cannabis Conference and Exposition, Patients Out of Time, and the Paralyzed Veterans of America Summit. His collaborations with leading universities such as the University of North Carolina, Duke University, Temple University, Florida A&M University, and the University of Alabama reflect his lifelong commitment to medicine, mentorship, and modern innovation.

“My mission is to replace suffering with science and stigma with understanding.” — Dr. Terel S. Newton

Book 1 — Endocannabinoid Medicine & Pharmacology

A Guide for Physicians and Pharmacists

By Dr. Terel S. Newton, M.D.
#1 Amazon Best Seller in Pain Medicine
Available on Amazon

Endocannabinoid Medicine & Pharmacology is a definitive guide for healthcare professionals seeking to understand the therapeutic role of cannabinoids in modern clinical practice. Drawing from Dr. Newton’s clinical experience and research leadership, the book explains how the endocannabinoid system regulates pain, inflammation, and neurological recovery, and how clinicians can apply this science responsibly.

Readers gain insight into the physiology and pharmacology of the endocannabinoid system, the clinical use of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, comparative data on safety and efficacy versus opioids, and practical guidance on dosing, formulation, and patient communication. The text also examines harm reduction, neuro inflammation, and the evolution of cannabinoid based therapies in medicine.

Written in clear medical language and supported by peer reviewed evidence, this work serves as an essential reference for physicians, pharmacists, and educators exploring the future of non opioid pain management.

Book 2 — Coming Soon in 2026 

Research and Publications

Dr. Newton is a recognized thought leader in interventional pain medicine and cannabinoid pharmacology. He has presented original work and continuing education lectures at more than fifty professional events nationwide, influencing physicians, pharmacists, and health systems in advancing safer, integrative care models. His research highlights the clinical potential of cannabinoids in reducing opioid dependence and improving pain control.

A Retrospective Analysis of Access to Medicinal Cannabis: Elucidating the Relationship Between Cannabis and the Harm Reduction Approach to Chronic Conditions

Conducted in collaboration with the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, Husson University School of Pharmacy, and Maine Medical Center, this study analyzed medical data from multiple states to determine how cannabis access affects opioid use and mental health outcomes in patients with chronic pain. The findings showed that states allowing medical cannabis access experienced opioid related overdose reductions of up to thirty three percent, with all states reporting at least a twenty five percent decrease. Patients using cannabis also demonstrated lower depression scores and reduced benzodiazepine use. The study supports medical cannabis as a measurable harm reduction strategy in pain management and public health policy.

Current Evidence on the Use of Phytocannabinoids for Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries

This literature review, authored by Dr. Newton as Medical Director of Trulieve Florida MMTC, examined more than two hundred studies on the use of cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol in treating pain and spasticity among individuals with spinal cord injuries. The analysis found that cannabinoids produced clinically meaningful reductions in pain and muscle spasm, with optimal THC dosing between fifteen and twenty milligrams per day. Adverse effects were mild and no major respiratory complications occurred. The results suggest that phytocannabinoids offer a promising, opioid sparing alternative for managing spasticity and neuropathic pain after spinal injury.

Dr. Newton’s body of work connects science, compassion, and innovation. Through education, research, and advocacy, he continues to shape the future of interventional and cannabinoid medicine across the United States.