Medical marijuana is available to alleviate chronic pain for those with qualifying conditions. Patients with various ailments can benefit from its use, including back pain, arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Studies indicate that cannabis may be as effective as opioids in reducing pain, but less information is available about its harms. Researchers are currently evaluating its long-term effectiveness and drug-drug interactions.

What Is Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana is a drug that comes from the cannabis plant. It contains chemicals called cannabinoids that produce different effects when ingested. Some of the medical marijuanas Canada can help reduce pain, nausea and loss of appetite.

Doctors prescribe it to people with specific health conditions. It can help with symptoms such as fibromyalgia, chronic pain from multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also relieve side effects from other medications, such as opiates and NSAIDs.

Pain management is medicinal marijuana’s most popular usage. Doctors say it’s more effective than opioids for some patients. It can also alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. In addition, it can reduce spasticity and improve muscle movement in people with MS and AIDS. The most important benefit, however, is improved quality of life, including reducing the dose of other medication.

How Can I Get a Medical Marijuana Card?

Medical marijuana is available in various forms, such as buds, oils and capsules. To use it, a patient must be diagnosed by a doctor or nurse practitioner and receive a written certification.

While more research is needed, current evidence supports the use of cannabis for various symptoms, including chronic pain (arthritis, fibromyalgia, interstitial cystitis and others), nausea/vomiting from cancer treatment, and to stimulate appetite in AIDS patients, seizures, spasticity, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Patients with chronic pain often report achieving a good level of symptom control and reduction or elimination of other medications, as well as improved function and quality of life.

Patients interested in medical marijuana should consult with a physician registered with New York’s program in person or through telehealth. Patients who are under 21 must have a guardian apply on their behalf. The process varies by state.

What Are the Benefits of Medical Marijuana?

Many studies of medical marijuana have shown positive results in patients with chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. According to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), it has also been discovered to aid in treating spasticity (tight or stiff muscles) in MS patients.

THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and CBD, or cannabidiol, are the two major chemical components of marijuana. THC binds to the brain’s pain and euphoria receptors. Since CBD does not connect to these receptors, it has no psychoactive effect. CBD does not bind to these receptors, so it does not produce a high. In addition to THC and CBD, another noteworthy component found in marijuana is THCA, the non-psychoactive precursor to THC which is typically found in raw or uncured cannabis flowers. Many reputable dispensaries and online platforms offer a variety of cannabis products, including THCA flower for sale, catering to individuals who appreciate the unique properties such as potential anti-inflammatory and relief from certain symptoms.

Researchers use different parts of the cannabis plant in their experiments, but using the whole plant has an entourage effect. This means that all the parts work together to reduce pain. In addition, many medical marijuana users report that they can decrease or eliminate opioid medications with the help of the drug. This has been especially helpful for those with rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammation of the joints.

How Can I Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Canada?

In many cases, the quickest way to get a medical marijuana card is to consult a physician who already knows your health history. Be sure to explain your symptoms in detail and clearly outline the medications and therapies you’ve tried that have failed to alleviate them.

Various physicians and nurse practitioners are now qualified to issue a cannabis recommendation under the ACMPR regulations. You might also be able to find one who is a licensed cannabis grower and can offer you access to buds, drops or capsules for various conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic pain, depression, nausea, PTSD, menstrual cramps, anxiety and gastrointestinal issues.

Another option is to visit an online medical clinic with physicians who qualify under the ACMPR program and can issue same-day cannabis cards. These clinics are becoming increasingly popular and often have physician appointments scheduled for the same day you apply. Be sure to bring all your medical documentation, such as previous diagnosis receipts and prescriptions.