Medical cannabis has grown into a multi-billion dollar enterprise. As the industry has skyrocketed, so have misconceptions about its side effects and dangers. Differences in federal and state laws confuse the general public. These discrepancies cause physicians to feel uncertain about providing evidence-based education, leaving their patients susceptible to misinformation. Keep reading to learn five things everyone should know about medical cannabis.
Medical cannabis, or medical marijuana, is a product derived from the cannabis sativa plant. Two active cannabinoid compounds in this plant are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabis consists of more than 100 cannabinoids, but THC is the primary one responsible for feeling “high.” The federal government prohibits the use of the whole plant because of its high levels of THC.
Public perception about medical cannabis is rapidly changing. A national survey showed that 22% of Americans believe that marijuana is not addictive. Others assume that secondhand cannabis smoke exposure is safer than that of tobacco. Growing acceptance and decreasing knowledge of its side effects leave your patients vulnerable to misinformation.
Other factors contribute to the changes in public perception regarding medical marijuana. Federal and state legal discrepancies cause confusion. Additionally, the media normalizes its use and presents it as a tool to help relax. As medical providers, we must clarify our terms, warn about side effects, and educate patients about medical cannabis.
Marijuana is much more potent today than it was fifty years ago. According to American Family Physician, THC content was 1.5% in the 1970s compared to 21% in 2018. As THC levels rise in medical cannabis, so do the risks to your patients. Research indicates that occasional users are 22% more likely to need emergency department care or hospitalization than those who have not used marijuana in the same year. Additionally, the general public is often ignorant of the associated side effects. Medical marijuana causes adverse short- and long-term side effects.
Cannabis over-activates the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which can cause several short-term side effects.
Researchers do not understand all the long-term implications of using medical cannabis. However, here are some research-reported results.
Many patients are unaware of the possible complications of medical marijuana use. As patient advocates, we can help remedy this problem by providing our patients with essential things to know about medical cannabis.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of the whole cannabis plant for medicinal treatment. However, they have approved three cannabinoid medications for specific conditions.
Dronabinol, found in Marinol and Syndros, is used to treat chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Additionally, doctors prescribe these synthetic THC medications for anorexia associated with HIV/AIDS.
Physicians prescribe nabilone, or Cesamet, to help with chemo-related nausea and vomiting. The active ingredient in this medication is also a synthetic THC cannabinoid.
CBD, or Epidiolex, is a purified cannabidiol derived from the cannabis sativa plant. Physicians use this FDA-approved drug for rare and severe childhood epilepsy, like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome. Cannabinoid interventions are appropriate in a few distinct situations.
State legislation, diminishing perception of harm, and elevated social acceptance are some reasons why more people use marijuana. Clinicians must normalize the conversation about medical cannabis. Judgment-free discussions pave the way for facts-based patient education and decision-making.
People must understand that medical marijuana has both short- and long-term consequences. That is why it should be avoided in the following situations:
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for marijuana use. With adequate screening and evidence-based education, we can reduce misconceptions.
U.S. federal law prohibits the use of marijuana. Yet, many states have legalized it for medical purposes. This discrepancy confuses patients and places practitioners in a difficult position. With evidence-based information, providers can confidently approach conversations about medical cannabis.
“Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need to Know.” NIH: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2019, Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need to Know | NCCIH.
“Physicians, Medical Marijuana, and the Law.” American Medical Association: Journal of Ethics, 2014, Physicians, Medical Marijuana, and the Law | Journal of Ethics | American Medical Association.
“Cannabis Essentials: Tools for Clinical Practice.” American Family Physician, 2021, Cannabis Essentials: Tools for Clinical Practice | AAFP.
“Cannabis (Marijuana) DrugFacts.” NIH: National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2019, Cannabis (Marijuana) DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
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