Medical Marijuana – Is Medical Marijuana Right For You?

Many people with medical conditions report that they get relief from the use of marijuana. The evidence, however, is fragmented and uncertain.

Evaluating marijuana by disease is difficult because of the federal government’s ban on government-supported data collection. Observational studies (people who report their own experiences) may look promising, and animal or test-tube studies of isolated compounds can also sound encouraging. But, it’s important to keep in mind that plenty of stuff helps mice or a clump of cells in a petri dish — and doesn’t help humans.

A 2022 study found that cannabis soothed arthritic lab rats, but there’s no robust evidence from human trials to back up claims of pain relief. A few studies show that cannabis may lower anxiety, but a 2022 trial of 32 college students with moderate-to-severe anxiety about taking tests found no difference in the levels of anxiety among those who used CBD than those who didn’t.

The FDA has approved drugs containing synthetic cannabinoids, including a purified form of cannabidiol (Epidolex), for the treatment of rare forms of severe epilepsy. It’s also been approved to treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and to boost appetite in people with AIDS.

Medical marijuana is dispensed as oil, pill, vaporized liquid and nasal spray, or the plant itself in states where it’s legal. It’s important to work with a certified physician who can provide guidance on how much and how often to take it and the right dosage for your symptoms. medical marijuana