Patients have many questions about the use of medical cannabis as a form of treatment for medical conditions and disorders. The two most often asked questions are: “is it legal?” and “does it work?”
Marijuana is currently legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C.. 11 of these states have approved marijuana for recreational use.
Marijuana has over 100 active components, including THC (the component of the hemp plant which causes a “high” when individuals consume the plant) and CBD (cannabidiol). Marijuana strains from dispensaries can be dispensed as CBD-dominant (little THC) or THC-dominant (higher percentages of THC). Most often, patient will see prescriptions for marijuana written as a T:C equation. This equation is the ration of THC to CBD dispensed with the patient’s prescription.
Patients utilizing CBD have reported relief of symptoms from disorders such as anxiety, insomnia and pain. The most common uses for THC-dominant strains are most often utilized for pain control; as a supportive tool in addiction recovery; neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease); and, to support patients who are diagnosed with neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, and, with cancers to assist with pain control and appetite support.