The use of cannabis for medical purposes, known as medical marijuana, has sparked debate globally. Yet, there’s increasing research that shows several health benefits accrued from its use, particularly for patients with certain conditions.
Medical marijuana has been found to offer chronic pain relief. That’s according to a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. This study revealed that cannabis, or products containing cannabinoids – this is a type of active substance in marijuana – are effective at relieving chronic pain. Chronic pain is a leading cause of disability, affecting more than 25 million adults in the U.S.
In addition to pain relief, cannabis is showing promise in epilepsy treatment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of a medication containing cannabidiol (CBD), a substance derived from cannabis, for treating severe forms of epilepsy.
Moreover, cannabis is being employed in cancer treatment, not as a cure, but as a means of alleviating symptoms and side effects. Research has shown that inhaling marijuana can stimulate the appetite of patients who experience a lack of desire to eat, often a side effect of chemotherapy.
The role of cannabis in mental health support is another important area of medical use. Specifically, it is associated with improvements in symptoms associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among some patients. It’s also worth noting that while cannabis is not typically first-line treatment for mental health conditions, for some individuals, it may be beneficial as an adjunctive therapy.
Furthermore, cannabis has been found to offer nausea relief, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy. This chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) can be highly distressing for patients. Pharmaceutical cannabinoids – such as dronabinol and nabilone – can help reduce these symptoms.
Apart from these uses, preliminary evidence suggests that medical cannabis may be of benefit in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Specifically, several studies have reported improvements in patient-reported muscle spasms, pain, and overactive bladder symptoms.
Additionally, research indicates that cannabis can be a beneficial tool in glaucoma management. In glaucoma, the optic nerve becomes damaged over time, which can eventually lead to blindness. Cannabis can lower the pressure in the eye (IOP) that causes this damage.
Perhaps one of the more recognized uses of medical cannabis is its ability to stimulate appetite, notably in patients with HIV/AIDS. This appetite stimulation is helpful for patients who struggle with a diminished desire to eat, leading to weight loss and potentially serious health complications.
Despite these potential health benefits, it is essential to note that the use of cannabis, like any drug, carries potential risks and side effects. Therefore, the decision to use cannabis for medical purposes should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
In conclusion, the use of medical marijuana is an exciting area of research and practice that holds potential promise for treating various health conditions. Its use is gaining acceptance as a legitimate therapeutic option among patients who suffer from chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer, and a range of other conditions. However, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and side effects and to discuss them thoroughly with your healthcare provider.
