Cannabis or marijuana, as popularly known for its recreational intents and purposes, has captured the interest of the medical and scientific community over the past few years. The significant rise in research focusing on the potential medical benefits of cannabis, coupled with the changing regulations and legislation on marijuana’s use, have unknowingly paved the way for its recognition as medical marijuana.
Although there is still much to uncover in the world of medical marijuana, several well-established benefits have been recognized for patients affected by a variety of medical conditions. Some of these conditions include chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy, where the use of medical marijuana may provide unique advantages over traditional medication.
One of the main breakthroughs in medical cannabis use is its potential in managing chronic pain and inflammation. According to a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, there is substantial evidence to support the use of cannabis in treating chronic pain. Primarily, it achieves this feat by targeting the pain receptors of the nervous system. Consequently, it significantly reduces patients’ discomfort and manages these symptoms, particularly for those suffering from long-term pain. Since chronic pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting approximately 20.4% of the adult population by 2016 CDC data, the potential impact of cannabis therapy can be life-changing for those who have tried and exhausted other conventional treatments.
Furthermore, medical marijuana has recently gained more attention due to its potential in aiding anxiety and generalized anxiety disorder, which had consistently ranked among the top mental disorders in the US. The National Institute of Mental Health reported that 19.1% of adults in the United States had experienced an anxiety disorder in the past year. Medical marijuana is thought to have therapeutic effects on anxiety, primarily through two of its primary components, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD is its non-psychoactive counterpart believed to have antianxiety properties. Research has shown that CBD may offer relief through serotonin-signaling modulation, helping people with anxiety disorders manage their symptoms.
Another notable story in the medical marijuana landscape is the tale of Epidiolex, the first FDA-approved drug derived from marijuana. This breakthrough drug was created to treat rare forms of epilepsy caused by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Epidiolex contains a purified form of the CBD compound, which has been reported to decrease seizure frequency. The FDA’s approval of the drug highlights the recognition of and potential for cannabis-derived compounds in relieving adverse health effects.
Despite these promising steps, much work remains to be done to uncover the full potential of medical cannabis and ensure that its advantages can be safely and responsibly accessed by those who need it. Continuing research is needed to solidify the current understanding of cannabis efficacy and safety while addressing the concerns surrounding possible addiction and decreased cognitive function. It’s vital that as the world continues to explore the medical possibilities offered by cannabis, we ensure emerging information, research, and public awareness remain at the forefront to secure a responsible approach to this complex issue.
In conclusion, the medical benefits of cannabis remain an intriguing topic in both the medical and scientific community. Chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy are only a few of the conditions that have been identified to benefit from medical marijuana therapy. Furthermore, the possibilities of uncovering more beneficial uses of cannabis through continued research create a sense of optimism, and it becomes our collective responsibility to ensure that the future of medical cannabis is backed by knowledge and awareness in its potential, drawbacks, and impacts on society.
