Medical marijuana refers to derivatives of the Cannabis plant that can be used to treat a range of physical symptoms such as pain and nausea, as well as mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The use of medical marijuana for therapeutic purposes is legal in 30 states in the United States, and recreational use is slowly beginning to catch up.
Understandably, many people are still concerned about the safety of medical marijuana and whether its use actually produces the desired results. As with any treatment, there are benefits and risks, and it is very important that you discuss them and any concerns you may have with your prescribing doctor.
Is Medical Marijuana Safe?
Medical marijuana is generally considered safe, as long as the recommended dose is taken especially with THC, and the prescribing doctor’s instructions are followed regarding frequency of use. It is available in the form of pills, liquids, oils, powder, and dried leaves. Where dosing is poorly managed and patients take large doses, they can experience adverse reactions, similar to what can happen with prescription drugs. Medical marijuana may also cause significant drug interactions, which is why providers review your medical history before writing out a prescription.
Possible negative effects include dizziness, increased heart rate and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, impaired concentration, slow reaction times, and hallucinations.
Is Medical Marijuana Effective?
The effectiveness of medical marijuana is well-documented in patients with certain conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, which affects vision and mobility and causes pain, numbness, and tingling, and also Parkinson’s Disease, which causes tremors, speech changes, rigid or slowed movement, and impaired posture or balance. Medical marijuana relaxes the tight muscles and lessens tremors associated with these conditions.
Medical marijuana is also highly effective in patients with chronic pain from conditions such as fibromyalgia and endometriosis, however, may not be strong enough for severe pain. An added benefit is that it can help pain patients reduce their overreliance on opiates, which can cause unpleasant and serious side effects. Medical marijuana has proven to be greatly beneficial in patients with pain due to neuropathy or nerve damage.
Medical marijuana also helps stimulate the appetite and helps those with medical conditions such as cancer and HIV/AIDs regain their appetite and improve nutrition levels. In addition, nausea from chemotherapy can also be eased by medical marijuana use.
Am I Eligible for Medical Marijuana?
You must have a qualifying condition that makes you eligible for use of medical marijuana. State laws vary in what conditions qualify patients for medical marijuana. The HB 1535: New Texas bill has recently expanded the list of who can be prescribed medical marijuana. In addition to autism, dementia, degenerative disc disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and nerve damage, all patients with cancer and PTSD can now be considered for a medical marijuana prescription.
If you are in a position where you are considering other methods to manage your symptoms, talk to a board-certified physician that prescribes medical marijuana. Millions of Americans use medical marijuana, and they appreciate how the treatment, particularly those that contain the CBD molecule, does not make them high and allows them to remain engaged in their daily life.
Medical Marijuana Doctors in Texas
If you have a qualifying medical condition, you may be able to secure a prescription for medical marijuana use according to The Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT) system.
At TX Cann MD, our board-certified physicians provide access to medical marijuana education and other services to patients who are eligible. As a patient, you will have unlimited access to your portal and benefits, wherever you are. At TX Cann MD, we want you to take advantage of the benefits of medical marijuana and have a more comfortable and fulfilling life despite your medical conditions.
For any questions or to schedule a consultation, text us now at (512) 601-5926 or request an appointment using our online form. We look forward to assisting you.
