Medical Marijuana & Cannabis Resource Center

Medical marijuana, or medical cannabis, refers to the use of the Cannabis sativa plant or its components to treat medical symptoms. It may help provide relief from chronic pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, epilepsy and seizures, glaucoma, and a range of other conditions. Medical cannabis can be smoked, vaporized, consumed orally, or applied topically, but regulations regarding its use vary by location. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using medical cannabis.

What Marijuana (Cannabis) Can Do for Your Health and Wellness

What Marijuana (Cannabis) Can Do for Your Health and WellnessMedically Reviewed by Grant Chu, MD, MS, MBA, FACP | December 6, 2022

FAQ

What conditions can medical cannabis treat?

Depending on the state where you live, healthcare providers can recommend medical cannabis to help treat chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, mental health conditions like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, and glaucoma.

Is medical cannabis legal everywhere?

No, the legality of medical cannabis varies by state (as well as by country). Speak with your healthcare provider to learn whether this treatment is legally available where you live and appropriate for the medical symptoms you’re experiencing.

What are the side effects of medical cannabis?

The “high” associated with medical cannabis, specifically the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) component, may make you feel happy, relaxed, restless, irritated, forgetful, impaired, or any combination thereof. High doses can also lead to paranoia, anxiety, hallucinations, and increased appetite.

How do I get a medical cannabis prescription?

The process for securing a medical cannabis prescription varies by state and isn’t an option everywhere. Visit your state health department’s website to learn about the regulations where you live.

Can medical cannabis be addictive?

Medical cannabis does carry a risk of dependence in some circumstances. This risk is affected by a number of societal and psychological factors. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine whether medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment for you.

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