In 37 states in the U.S., more and more people with certain chronic health problems – including cancer patients – are turning to medical marijuana in hopes of breaking free from pain, quality-of-life issues, and other challenges brought on by their conditions.
If you’re on this page to glean useful information about medical marijuana, particularly its effects on people living with cancer or undergoing cancer treatment, we’ve provided an outline of its benefits and risks below to help give you a better understanding.
Pros
Studies suggest that medical marijuana can be highly beneficial for patients living with cancer or undergoing cancer treatment for a variety of reasons, a few of which are discussed below:
- Pain management – There’s a body of evidence that establishes the efficacy of medical marijuana in helping ease cancer-related pain, making it a great and relatively safer alternative to opiates and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Opiates carry the risk of addiction, while NSAIDS are notorious for causing gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, and even vomiting.
- Effective gastric symptom relief – Medical marijuana has also been shown to quell gastric problems associated with cancer treatment. Cannabinoids have been established to have anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties as well as the ability to inhibit gastric acid production.
Additionally, medical marijuana boosts appetite, thereby helping cancer patients maintain a healthy body weight.
- Tumor growth suppression – According to research, medical cannabis has also shown potential in slowing – or even stopping – the growth of cancer cells in early-stage cancer patients.
Cons
Experts, however, explicitly caution that cancer patients should be discerning. The medical marijuana industry, like any other, is unfortunately plagued with fraudsters. So, to make sure they are getting only genuine medical cannabis products, they should consult a registered physician. In addition, to ensure their safety and reap the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis, they should only take it as prescribed.
Marijuana, per se, can also carry certain adverse effects, particularly when used for a prolonged period of time. These effects include the following:
- Dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness
- Poor motor control, disorientation, and balance
- Mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and paranoia
Medical Marijuana Doctor near Me in Texas
If you are a cancer patient in search of a legally qualified medical marijuana provider in the state of Texas, choose one of our board-certified, TCUP-registered physicians here at TX Cann MD. We gladly educate patients about medical marijuana to help them make well-informed decisions.
To determine your eligibility for medical marijuana, we will thoroughly assess your condition and, upon approval, will provide you with a prescription on the same day. Our appointments are all done virtually, so you can talk to one of our providers wherever you are.
Text us today to arrange a telehealth consultation: (512) 601-5926. Alternatively, you may fill out this form. We look forward to helping you feel better and live well with cancer!
